Servant 4 Him

Hey Everyone...I miss you

2007-04-07T17:26:00.000-05:00

Just wanted to say hi to everyone because I certainly miss you guys. Ever since Ive been filtered out at work, I havent been able to see my blog. Im currently using a personal computer to check this blog site. Its been a long time!!! I hope all is going well with everyone and hope you still choose to visit this sight every once in a while. Take care...love you all.

Scott

Tattoo

2006-10-24T16:15:00.000-05:00

Have you ever thought about getting a tattoo? I've had this "itch" lately about getting one, but it just doesn't run in my family or friends. I know it's becoming more and more accepted in today's society, but I would feel like doing something wrong...like drugs or something. I've even thought about getting one on the bottom of my foot (just to have one). Do you guys have any tats and if so, how do you feel about them? I know Richard has a few, but anyone else?

The above pic is something I had in mind.

Confessions

2006-10-17T12:47:00.000-05:00

Is it hard to confess something we've done wrong? Is it hard to look someone in the face and say, "I was wrong?" Is seeking and acknowledging the unbiased, unprejudiced truth too difficult to bear?

I used to be like this when I was younger. I just couldn't accept the truth that I was WRONG and confessing it was even harder. We sometimes shift our blame to some other person or thing instead of "owning-up" to the charge. I remember how God chastised me one time during a moment of seeking His face...I told him that I was sorry for drinking one weekend and that my friends made me do it...they bought the beer and they offered it to me many times before I finally gave in to it. God gave me a humbling revelation..."Did they tie you down in a chair, hold your head back and stick a funnel down your throat and poor beer in it?" I said no. He said, "Then THEY aren't to blame, YOU are!"

GOD reminded me of a time when a friend and I were wrestling in a rented home and we broke a window. His first response was to call the landlord and tell him what we've done...my first response was to quickly go buy another glass and replace it before the landlord finds out. I was very reluctant for my friend to call him, but he did anyway. The landlord said, "Because you have called me and told me the truth about what you've done, I'm going to buy a new glass and have it put in first thing in the morning at no charge to you." I was mesmerized by how easy that was and how clean we felt for doing it.

I was started on a journey to just how important it is to "come clean" and be truthful no matter what the consequences my be. It's better be truthful and face the consequence rather than to lie/avoid telling the truth, having to face far worst consequences.

This blog is saying, "Confess your sins to one another, and above all, get real and truthful to God." He already knows what you did anyway! Confession brings a clean slate and it is a wonderful feeling of knowing you are clean and squared-away with Father God. He who is righteous and just will forgive us our sins.

Now...you're wondering about the picture at the begginning of this blog. It is a truth that most white folks don't like to bear. We've established ourselves as the true race for the US of A and everyone should be inferior to us. We've enslaved blacks, chinese, mexicans, and etc. We established ourselves and the rightful owner of the great land and will defend it at all cost against any terrorist who come against it. We will defeat anyone who tries to come and terrorize our great land and it's people. But, aren't the Indians the rightful owners? Did the white man come and terrorize them? Did we come and occupy a land that belonged to someone else? The answer...yes we did. Oooohhh, I bet that hurt. We were once the same ones we are fighting against now! OUCH! Well, the truth doesn't always feel good, but it's still the truth.

Much luv,
SG

Best Show?

2006-10-11T13:32:00.000-05:00

What was your favorite show in the 80's and in the 90's? I was thinking about this today and discovered that it was a hard decision to make. I loved Star Trek the Next Generation back in the 80's, and I loved the X-Files back in the 90's. Since the turn of the new century, I've become attached to shows such as Smallville, Everwood, Lost, 24, Invasion, Surfaced, and Alias. Currently, I've found some new shows that are great! Vanished, Eureka, Supernatural, Heroes,
The 9, and oh yes...my new favorite..."Jericho." Jericho is about a small town that didn't even know that a nuclear war and fall-out had occurred and suddenly finds themselves alone and cut off in a quiet world. This sounds very much like a rapture, but it's very good.

What's going on in your TV life?

SG

Angry?

2006-10-05T08:51:00.000-05:00

Are you angry? What are some of the ways you deal with anger? We all have to deal with this emotion throughout our lives. It starts when we are little tottlers...not wanting to go to bed, or eat certain vegetables, or not getting the toy we wanted, or having to go home when the fun is finally getting started. We grow up displaying a variety of responses to anger...starting with pitching a fit in the floor as a young child...then we move up and learn how to use sharp, soul slashing words, sometimes even put a nice little hole in the wall. Some people will go for a walk to shake it off, others use a punching bag hanging from the rafters in the basement. Some people turn to chemicals such as alcohol or drugs.

One thing I noticed about my present day anger is that it's short-lived. As soon as I peak, I feel guilty and then become heart-broken. I do not like to get angry, nor do I like to fuss and argue. I'm a peaceful man looking for a peaceful place in the neutral zone.

Why am I writing about anger... because I saw this picture on the web and thought it was too cute to pass up! So I'm writing about it. Isn't free speech wonderful...or does that make you angry?

What do we do?

2006-10-03T14:42:00.000-05:00

Are you one of those who "look on" when someone is having a hard time? Do we actually listen to those who are living miserably? Is there anyone listening to a broken heart, a depressed soul...longing for an answer that will bring hope? People are choosing to go where there's a positive radiance in abundance. Is this why so many people go to bars for "happy hour?" It's a false sense of happiness that fades out as a hangover fades in. People are looking for a better life, something that contains happiness. As I look back over the years, I wonder if there's anyone I've overlooked and didn't lend them the time or ear for their hurts. The bible tell us that if we ignore the cries of those in need, we will also be ignored in our own time of need. The bible also tells us to always be ready to give an account for the hope that is within us. Jesus is sending His own out to a hurting world to give them a message of hope. What are we doing with this message of hope. Do we just hold on to it and hope to edure to the end? If you are on a ship in the middle of the ocean, enjoying your wonderful cruise, and then suddenly you see people out treading the rough waters...we can say, "Hey, I've been there and don't want to go back...I'm enjoying this luxury ride and don't want to stop the momentum," or do we say, "I've got many life preservers and rafts and I will help you." Jesus said, "Go!" Are we going? I'm guilty...are you?

Bittersweet?

2006-09-27T09:39:00.000-05:00

Is today's technology bittersweet, vast improvement of quality of life, a form of rape of yesteryear's togetherness, does it add to... or take away? Does it help us as much as hurt us?
I've pondered this little yinyang often. Technology is great and help us in the fields of medicine, military, even saves us money on stamps. It makes office jobs much more efficient and faster, it helps us retrieve information within seconds. It helps us design and manufactor parts for our saftey. We can cook food instantly. We can press a button on the microwave oven and, poof, it's done. The air conditioners are a must! Our tools are now made to make work as easy as posible. Our vehicles are like palaces on wheels.

Flip side: It takes away family time because the younger generation stay in chatrooms. It hurts our interpersonal skills (dealing with people face to face), handwritting is a personal and distinct form of sharing. I love to see my late mother's handwritting. Is instant always good? We live in an "instant gratification" society. I remember the smell of grandma's cooking on Sunday after church...she cooked it the "old fashion" way. I don't remember complaining about a car without an airconditioner. I know that I was a lot more healthy using the old fashion tools to work.

So, I like them both! Each category has an element of benefit. How can we combine the two? I know if my boys went without a computer or game that they would go through a gruesome withdrawal. I know I would have a more quality relationship with my wife if you took away the cell phone. How can we get away from it all and go out to the country and sit on the ground and eat watermellon and watch the kids play something that doesn't make a "ding or bling" sound?
It seems that all we have time for these days (as far as going to a beautiful place to relax) is only on a desktop background, even a screen saver foots the bill. However, simply writing this blog is a portion of technology. So, all of this blog post seems to point to one thing...I'm a poor confused soul that wants only the good things in life, whether they are old fashion or space aged technology.

SG

Celebration Sunday

2006-09-20T10:13:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone,

I'm excited about Celebration Sunday. I hear MB is coming by to bend a string or two with the other "goodies." I love to hear them jam at the Vineyard. I also like the culinary follow-ups on this particular day. I missed Sam and Samantha Brown last Sunday. I really wanted to see them since this would be the first time since the "Common Ground" days. I also wanted to hear about their missionary experiences in Ireland. I was home with a bad stomache virus that weekend. It's going around!
Guys, I look forward to your music...Michael's guitar, David's energy, Bruce's voice, Brook's lead-playing, Lenola's bass, and the drummer from Anniston's (Blue Mountain) Vineyard. I miss you guys and I miss the "House of Blues!" I miss going to Cracker Barrell after the Blues.
That was a great time! Cya Sunday!
SG

I'm Baaaaaack!

2006-09-13T13:08:00.000-05:00

Hi friends, I've been on blog-vacation. Now I'm back.
Welcome back Michael...Your cyber-sermons have been missed!
A lot of us need a cyber-sermon during the week. So, welcome back
to the cyber-pulpit. My picture extractor for this blog was deleted
by our tech guy here at work. So I'll just write for a while.

Love is groovy,
SG

Rocky Mountain High...

2006-08-10T10:10:00.000-05:00

I recently saw a documentary on John Denver's life and was flooded with memories. I didn't know how much I missed his music until I watched the program. It was a unique style that has a coffeehouse feel to it, but it was music from deep in his soul. His music was a projection of life's joy, if sought for it. Joy can be obtained, but we have to make the first move toward it. The bible says that we get our strength from joy. John took the simplistic, but often overlooked priviledges of life and made them into song. He looked into the heart and studied what love really is, what joy really is, and finding paths to reach the uncorrupted definition of true love.

Were any of you fond of his songs? My personal favorite is, "Sunshine on my Shoulders."

Michael...

2006-08-07T13:07:00.000-05:00

Hey Michael, I've tried to post on your blogs for the past couple of weeks and I didn't know how to get in touch with you...so here's my attempt. Are you not recieving postings?

OK..."Bewitched" was better than "Jeannie"

2006-08-02T14:26:00.000-05:00

I too had a "thang" for Elizabeth Montgomery, but sometimes she had competition with the ladies from "Gilligan's Island."

More from Yester-years

2006-07-31T09:56:00.000-05:00

I'm on a roll for yesteryears. Just tapping into old memories.

Part 2

2006-07-28T10:46:00.000-05:00

This is part 2 of my previous blog. I'm on a roll here, striving, longing for the life that once was. I searching for the point in which it changed. I know the times/world has changed, but that is no excuse for how we live our lives or choose to live our lives. No one responded to the previous blog...so naturally, either no one has seen it, or no one knows how to answer it.

Anyway, as you can tell...I'm a very sentimental man, who appreciates the times most people take for granted. I have a powerful love of "family closeness" and living a simple life; however, my life is anything but simple.

O.K., I'm through babbling here. Just throwing my thoughts out there for dissecting.

Peace,
Scott

Ahhhh Yes...I Remember...

2006-07-25T09:01:00.000-05:00

Remember when...
Memories are precious treasures that should not be buried, but constantly revisited. I have a hard time finding those precious moments from this new age and era. Peace and love at a slower pace is hard to find these days. It still exists, but it's hard to find those magical moments and places. Is this just my view, or do others feel it too?

J I L O A

2006-07-18T13:31:00.000-05:00

Does anyone recognize this gentleman? He was part of the group called "JILOA" back in the early eighties and was a regular at Christian Brothers. He also came to the Vineyard back in January for a night service.

I'm Back and Exhausted!

2006-07-18T10:54:00.000-05:00

Hi folks,

I'm back and I'm exhausted! I've worked day and night, seven days per week, since Mother's Day. I have unintentionally lost 13 pounds and I can't concentrate. On the brighter side, progress is being made!

I've missed you guys and I look forward to seeing you again someday.

Peace!

2006-06-28T10:52:00.000-05:00

As you look at this picture and read the scripture, what exactly comes to your mind? What do you envision or dream of while contemplating this picture?

AAAhhhhhhh, What Great Movies From the Day!

2006-06-26T14:14:00.000-05:00

Michael's got me started on the movies from the good ol' days and now I can't stop! Did everyone enjoy Close Encounters. I was spellbound and mezmerized by the intensity and magic displayed by Richard Dreyfus in that movie. The movie itself kept me looking at every star in the night sky. I remember how my imagination would run wild with anticipation of a starship or saucer, or anything that moved in the night sky that didn't sound like an airplane. Richard Dreyfus became one of my favorite actors...did you see Mr. Holland's Opus? Well, anyway, I've spoken what I came to speak.

Nanno, Nanno

Tempted to Plagarize...

2006-06-20T14:53:00.000-05:00

After reading Michael's blog, I couldn't resist the temptation to do a little plagarizing in blog content. He was reminising over a theatre in Attalla, where he grew up. I've been pondering the old times heavily ever since I read the blog. My, my, how sweet it feels to stroll down memory lane. The old movies from the 60's-80's were fantastic. Thanks Michael for sending me back to the "good ol' days."

Peace...Be Still!

2006-06-15T08:51:00.000-05:00

Are you noticing how hectic our lives are these days...or is it just me? It seems everything is competively seeking out any empty spots on our life's schedule. It chokes out the times that should be set aside for God and ourselves. We should keep the sabbath holy, whatever day of the week we choose, but even that is getting crowded out with obligations. I've worked from 7:45am - 9:00pm daily since mother's day and I'm starting to feel the results of it. I'm tired. I feel like Forrest Gump after running from coast to coast. I cannot run from responsibilities like a lot of people do. I must keep on keeping on. I will totally halt all activity on Father's day.

I'm in search of the "Still Waters" that I used to drink deeply from. I've wandered too deep into the forrests of obligation. It's time to head back to the "quiet." Do you feel this way sometimes? Do you feel like you are expediting your expiration date?

06-06-06

2006-06-12T10:03:00.000-05:00

The End is Near!!

2006-06-02T13:38:00.000-05:00

It is true that no one knows when the end will come, but He has given us signs. Are we or will we be receptive of such signs. Most people that I've talked to don't even know what signs to look for. As the time draws nearer, most say that they don't have to worry about it because they are ready...Cool! But what about the ones who are not ready? Who will help them get ready or show them how they can prepare? Yes, I believe in the "caught up in the air" thingy called the rapture. Signs are everywhere and...I'm guilty too...I've been too busy to help anyone or show anyone the way. When I do have time, I spend it doing things for me or my family. I guess I need to get rid of the splintter before I can remove any boards.

Will the real Christian please stand up...

2006-05-31T09:04:00.000-05:00

Will the real Christian please stand up? What does a real Christian look like? What does a real Christian act like? Who's to make the measurement of spirituality? What can we do become more "Christiany?" Is there something we can change on the outside...NO! Is there something we CAN do...YES! We can do what the bible says to do...."Study to show thyself approved," "Meditate on His word day and night," "Go ye therefore..." "Pray always, without ceasing," "Repent or ye shall likewise perish," " Be ye holy for I am holy" and the list goes on and on. I remember when I was a young Baptist boy and I raised my hands during song. The church almost came to a dead halt. Everyone looked at me like something major just happened. I was just worshipping and praising the Lord and next thing I know, pastors, ministers, etc., was wanting me to have supper with them and to tell them about this grand experience. LOL, I simply told them that I fell in love with Jesus, that's all. You see, people are looking for experiences from the outer manifestations of the "people," when the real deal is found inside...kind like "Intel Inside." Here's the message: Stop looking for the "real thing" with physical eyes, use the spiritual eyes and look within...yourself...not others.

Peace and Love

2006-05-26T11:13:00.000-05:00

Where is there a world or part of a world where peace and love abounds? Is there a place where the weight of life disolves and all present showers you with love and understanding? Is there a place where people set aside all their hang-ups, animosity, grudges, and a host of other issues, and just simply love you? Is there a place of total trust? Where can I find a place to rest my weary spirit and find peace and joy...unspeakable joy? Are you tired of the fake smiles and plastic friendliness that people show like they are performing some type of public relations task? Are you looking for that place while we are still wearing our "earth-suits?" Let us begin a journey together and find such a place. It must start with Jesus...then the journey begins. Where to next?

"...more than Conquers"

2006-05-23T09:47:00.000-05:00

The bible says we are more than conquers. It also says that if God be for us, who can be against us. I can look at this picture and be flooded with scriptures. I want to be able to look into a mirror and see Jesus...as the roaring lion of Judah! I want to look into the mirror and see Jesus starring back at me saying, "I am with you until the ends of the earth." And I'd like to hear, "I'll never leave nor forsake thee." It's like saying, "Scott, I am everywhere, where ever you are or where ever you go, I will be there." I bet many of you can arrive at certain scriptures and promises while looking at the picture. Let me know what you think.

Bragging Boys

2006-05-15T11:07:00.000-05:00

Three boys are in the schoolyard bragging about their fathers. The first boy says, "My Dad scribbles a few words on a piece of paper, he calls it a poem, they give him $50."

The second boy says, "That's nothing. My Dad scribbles a few words on a piece of paper, he calls it a song, they give him $100."

The third boy says, "I got you both beat. My Dad scribbles a few words on a piece of paper, he calls it a sermon. And it takes eight people to collect all the money!"

In God's Time

2006-05-12T09:54:00.000-05:00

A man is talking to God. The man asks God how much a million years is to him God says that it's a second.

Then he asks how much a million dollars is to him.
God says it's a penny.

So the man asked, "God can I have a penny?"
And God replied, "Just a second."

Vineyard Missionary News from Ireland - Shelton Brown

2006-05-10T12:49:00.000-05:00

May 8, 2006
Hello everyone,
It’s hard to believe that May is already here and that eight months have passed since our arriving in Ireland. I know we’re past due again in sending an update. Before that though, I would like to say another "Thank You." I was reflecting the other day on all of the acts of love and support given as we where making hurried preparations to come. It is so humbling when I think of all those men and ladies that came to our house and often worked long hours in the Alabama August heat, as if they didn’t have any work of their own to see to; those who prayed for us as if our trip was one of the most important things on their agenda; and likewise those who gave financial and material gifts because they thought God was in it or they just wanted to say "We love you". The memories minister to us. Again, thank you and may the Lord bless you.
First of all a response to the last prayer request we sent regarding Nigel’s sickness and the 24-7 prayer weekend with the young people. Your prayers must have been heard. Nigel’s fever went down; he got out of bed and began to feel good enough to assume his leadership role for the event. The event itself was very moving. These young people have such a hunger to see God’s Spirit move in their land again and move in their generation. On Saturday afternoon, Carl Anderson, author of Changing of the Guard spoke. There was a prayer time following for any of the young people who wanted prayer. All of these young people needed encouragement even though they came to pray for others. There were even two teenage girls attending who were tied to a tree and beaten for sharing the Gospel in a rough area. So, needless to say, we were glad to see them receive some ministry for a change. The Holy Spirit moved powerfully and at the end most of them were on their faces or knees.
Samantha said it sounded just like a birthing room. I have never seen so many young people in one place weeping, groaning, and praying fervently for their country and generation- how convicting. The Saturday night worship service was just as powerful. It reminded me of Hebrews 5:7. Surely God hears them and intends to do something in His time.
At lunch time Samantha and I were sitting at the table and talking with about six of them. I had enough time to ask three of them if they attended church, and if so, where. All three said they did not have a church of their own. I asked Catherine sitting beside me- why? She said she just didn’t fit in. I couldn’t help it, I started to weep. Here was a girl who carries a burden for her country and generation, prays fervently, worships wholeheartedly, studies her Bible, participates in street evangelism and doesn’t fit in? What an indictment on the church. I have been here long enough to know that there really may not be a church in her area where she would fit in. These young people network themselves together, encourage one another, and catch a ride when they can to a church with some Life and so they can attend an occasional worship service. You can see the dangers here.
Please pray for them.
Also, thanks so much for your prayers regarding the Alpha program at the Catholic church here in the village. The final meeting, which is an all day affair, took place here at the Centre. This was very encouraging. Some of these people, even though they live here in this small village, have never been in the door here. Over the years the Centre was often considered too Protestant for the Catholics visit and too Catholic for the Protestants.
Only recently have some of Nigel’s closest friends from his old High School in Kilkeel, a primarily protestant area, come here to visit him. Before, he had to go to Kilkeel if he wanted to see them. We are very glad that this type of thinking is deteriorating. Oh well, I digress. Anyway, about the Alpha weekend, there was much laughter at mealtimes and apparently it was a great success all around. The group leaders are telling us now that about twenty five of the participants are now continuing on with a study in the book of Philippians. They are really hungry for the Word! They have heard the Scriptures read all of their lives at Mass (more than many Protestant churches have) but have never read it for themselves. The leaders of the group are so excited to see this happening. This is a significant breakthrough in this Catholic church and we are grateful. The leaders of the Alpha group are still requesting prayer support.
There are so many people from all over the world that come in and out of here and there are stories for almost each one of them. I only wish that I had the time to tell you about them all. I will tell you a quick, not-so-serious story. Recently a retired minister and his wife from South Africa came to help for a couple of weeks. Colin told me later that when he first heard me talk he thought I was "pulling their legs". He laughed and said, "I didn’t think anyone really talked like that. I thought it was only in the American movies." Well, he’s a believer now. One more- yesterday, we where asked to tell a bit of our story and lead some worship in a church in Belfast. Happily we were able to get our schedule worked out to do it. The first thing I had to do was talk to the children and they had not heard me speak. So the first thing out of my mouth was something like, "OK the first thing we have to get out of the way is- I really talk like this. This is the way I talk. I am from Alabama and believe it or not there are millions of us that talk like this. It’s not just in the movies." They’re eyes where big for a while and I got some really interesting looks but they seemed to settle in to the story well after that.
On the family side of things, Ethan is still enjoying helping Paddy with the sheep. His sheep are beginning to lamb now so things are getting pretty busy. Paddy has "hired" (rented) an extra "quad" (4-wheeler) to help keep up with the extra work, that’s a story in itself. Also Paddy’s son, Colin, has taken time off from work to help. This family has been so good to Ethan and has really been a God-send to us. We are so grateful. William is still working hard on his 9th grade school work, which is a bit of a test since his brothers are learning trades of one kind or another. The skateboarding is beginning to pick up with Henry, Doctor Henry Sr.’s son, now that the weather is improving and the days are getting longer, it’s still twilight at 10:00PM! Giles has been loved and taught so much by Pauline, the cook here at the Centre. Giles often cooks the deserts by himself now, even for fairly large numbers. If you want any recipes when we get home, see Giles. Pauline was crying today and telling Samantha that she didn’t know what she was going to do when Giles went home. What a blessing to have people love your children. God has been good.
The current helpers here are 18 year old Charissa, from Holland and a young chimney sweep, Steven, from French speaking Switzerland. Both of them are energetic and are really growing in Lord. Somehow none of us community members here noticed that Steven had not checked "yes" for conversational English on his application. He came about four weeks ago speaking almost none. It’s funny how the Lord slipped that one in on us. It’s been really interesting though trying to tell someone who speaks no English how to clean this or that, cut the grass, repair something, paint a room etc. especially if he’s never done it before. He’s gone to bed with a headache many times but his English is improving daily. He also plays guitar and it’s been a blessing having him play with us during our Sunday night worship/intercession time. Charissa speaks English very well, is a lot of fun and has become a friend to the whole family. She normally helps Samantha in the house/old mansion. The Lord has really been doing a number on her since her coming. It’s been a pleasure to watch.
We know we are where we are supposed to be but we still miss everyone terribly. We all are looking forward to returning home but we hope God helps us to not leave anything undone here that we should be doing now. We think the Centre’s ministry is vital but the life here is confining by comparison and with precious little time to get into the community/villages around you.
We often have invitations to visit people or ministries but it is just not feasible. There’s too much to be done here. I say that to say this, notwithstanding the time constraints, the Lord is beginning to build some relationships with these young people who find this a safe place to come to for their worship/prayer meetings. One of them wanted to know yesterday whether she needed to fly into Birmingham or Atlanta when she comes to visit. She had already priced the tickets. I know Alabama will be good to her and bless her.
There’s so much to share.

We love you all very much,
Please God, Bless all of these our friends for their love,

Shelton, Samantha, Ethan, William, and Giles

P.S. Praise reports, prayer requests and possibly a few photo’s should be forthcoming.

Christian Renewal Centre
44 Shore Road
Rostrevor
Newry
County Down
BT34 3ET
Northern Ireland
http://www.blogger.com/www.crc-rostrevor.org

Jesus Festival

2006-04-28T10:17:00.000-05:00

Ok guys...what's it going to take? How can we get the ball rolling on a new Jesus Festival at the falls? I've had this vision for years...I mean for years. I've contacted national talent as well as local talent. All are ready for it! It's just getting the place reserved for such an event is difficult.
All suggestions are welcome.

David, I borrowed your ticket for this posting.

Bikers in our midst

2006-04-26T13:17:00.000-05:00

If you know of anyone who has a motorcycle or is getting a motorcycle, and loves Jesus, and wants a closer walk/ride with Him, please let them know of an organization that would love to have them to participate. I am now ready to organize a new ride and I am accepting new members. I hope that you can send them our way. Phone: 256-547-4873

Come to the Quiet

2006-04-21T10:16:00.000-05:00

Sometimes we need to get away from it all, just get away. Allow God to lead us beside the still waters...so He can restore our souls. Sometimes we have to get away from people and other distractors in order to hear His gentle spirit. I've seen a lot of people respond to the altar call and profess Jesus as their personal savior...only to live like He is their Public savior.
We read the part about fasting in the New Testament and miss the message how some were not blessed because they made themselves look raggedy, and prayed out loud on the roof tops. God wants to have a very personal relationship with us. He wants to fellowship with us...the way He intended before sin broke the connection. Jesus came to restore that connection so that we can be intimate with the Father once again. Yet, a lot of us fellowship with Him on Sundays and Wednesdays. Let's find a time in our chaotic schedules to take a walk with Jesus. Walk in the forrest, or beside a river/stream. I remember reading somewhere that God's character can be found in nature. Let's return to the quiet to be with Him, and Celebrate with a loud shout and praise when we are together! I love you all...see ya Sunday.

Who was your favorite 80's christian artist?

2006-04-12T11:03:00.000-05:00

Who was you favorite Christian artist from the 80's? Do you remember the songs? I remember that Sandi Patti's, "We shall behold Him," was my favorite. I loved Amy Grant's music..."Father's eyes," and "Thy word." Michael W. Smith swept us away with "Friends."
Let's see...I remember Russ Taff, David Meece..."People need the Lord"...

Oh what a great decade to know Jesus Christ! The Seventies were great also!

Go Ye Therefore

2006-04-07T12:46:00.000-05:00

Do you remember when Keith Green sang the song that says: "...Jesus rose from the
grave...and you...you can't even get out of bed..." Wow, that was a powerful and
sobbering message. I remember taking this song to heart and entering the mission fields.
Maybe it's just me, but today's generation seems to be lacking in outreach. I remember how
the message of: "Go ye therefore..." and "Be ye doers of the word and not just hearers only," and "Go out into the highways and byways and compel them to come in that My house may
be filled," was such a burning, overwhelming motivator to reach those who do not know
Christ as their savior. It seems that this has been supressed over the last decade. We need to
return to what God commanded the church and GO! I believe that a church will flourish under
God's blessings if we obey God's commands. Let us begin preparations for a new wave of
outreach.

News from Ireland

2006-04-07T08:30:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone
Just a quick prayer request. This weekend, beginning today, is the second
24/7 prayer event here at the Centre. Starting tonight and ending Sunday morning a few young people from all over the country and some from England will be coming here to seek God and pray for Ireland. Most of these will be college age. Almost all of them are involved in prayer and witnessing ministries in their churches and on their university campuses, that is, the ones who have the benefit of attending a church that prays or does evangelism. Some of them are hanging in there in some mighty dead churches.
We understand some have left their churches because they just can't take it anymore. They would be looking for a place to worship and fellowship.
We will have 20+ staying the night here and more dropping in. There will be worship services on tonight and Saturday night. I will be helping with the music tonight and leading the worship time on Saturday.
Also, Nigel, Harry and Dorothy's son who has done all of the organising and most of the labor for this in the bed with a fever.
Pray however the Lord leads you.
We hope to get out a more detailed letter covering the events of March soon.
Thanks for your prayers!

Shelton Brown

New Puppies

2006-04-05T08:17:00.000-05:00

Now that Michael's a new papa again, I've started thinking...what is too late for a new child to enter this world? Do you know of anyone who had a child in their mid-forties? If so, give me a brief history of this adventure. LaChelle and I have put it off for years just to wait for the "perfect" time. We were waiting for our jobs to become more stable and secure. However, the job situation has been nothing but a rollercoaster from the beginning. I can't control the economy or government, only my 110% job performance. Still, the layoffs come and go like a fashion trend around here.

Been away

2006-03-29T15:10:00.000-06:00

Sorry if you haven't heard from me for a while. I've been away on business in Baltimore, Maryland. I just got back late last night (Tuesday night). I was a great diversion from the everyday stresses. It was a beautiful place, but very cold! Their cold is felt in the bones. Also, I've learned something very early in the trip...you can't live in Baltimore on Alabama money! A simple little ball cap was 80-150 dollars. When a lady from my company ate at the first restaurant we stopped at, her bill was $48.00. I don't want to mention mine, but I can tell you, everything is so expensive up North! I felt like a poor hillbilly walking in their mall...by the way, it's about 20 times bigger than the Galleria in Birmingham. No wonder I hardley ever saw anyone over weight...food too expensive and walking from one end of the mall to the other is like a marathon. Well, now I'm back to big Bama and could instantly feel the humidity as soon as I stepped off the plane. It is very warm here in comparison. Oh..yea...I thought they sounded funny and they thought I sounded funny! I bet I sounded like Donald Duck to them. Any way, I'm back...missed ya! How about a comment from time to time.

Vineyard Missionaries in Ireland News

2006-03-24T08:34:00.000-06:00

The following is the latest news from Shelton and Samantha Brown who are currently serving as missionaries in Ireland. Please don't forget to pray for them as mentioned two blogs ago.

From: Samantha Brown

February 4, 2006
Hello from Ireland. Sorry for taking so long to make contact with you. We are settling fine here. We are finally about to feel like we are in this time zone anyway (6 hours ahead of you). We have a nice "flat" (apartment). The boys each have their own rooms and we even have two loos (bathrooms).
The boys have made a few friends, something that I understand is not an easy task here in the village. Never before have there been so many kids from the village dropping by the Centre. Instead of saying to their parents that they are going over to the Browns, they say they are going over to "The Americans."
Giles spends many mornings in the kitchen with Pauline. Pauline lives in Kilkeel and comes in four days a week to prepare lunch for us. She is an excellent Irish cook (and story teller) but more importantly Pauline loves Giles and enjoys having him in the kitchen with her. He looks quite the chef in his apron and hat. She uses every opportunity to teach him something. If you want to know what kinds of things the Irish people like to eat and any recipes for preparing them you'll have to ask Giles. He will be the one cooking them for us when we are back home again. Pauline has done much to make the boys and me feel welcome here.
Unlike the other boys, William has been busy with his school work. We have not wanted to be so busy doing school that we miss out on the unique opportunities given to one living in a foreign country and with people of a different culture. It is important to William, however, to advance to the next grade when we get home so that he can stay with his friends. Don't misunderstand. It has not been all work and no play for William. It didn't take him long to find a skate boarding buddy. Henry lives two houses down from the Centre and to give me at least some peace of mind about the risk taking hobby, the boy is the son of the local doctor here in Rostrevor.
Ethan works four days a week with Paddy. Paddy is a sheep farmer from Hilltown. He comes and collects (picks up) Ethan in the morning and delivers (brings back) him home again in the evening. Ethan goes along with him everywhere he goes and Paddy introduces him by saying, "This lads from Alabama." Ethan has had so many neat experiences. He has been involved in many aspects of sheep farming, feeding, tagging, sheering, tending to sheep with sore foot, immunizing, and moving flocks from one pasture or hillside to another. He has driven all kinds of equipment- sometimes through the middle of the village (this is something that one would see often in this country but I sure didn't expect my son to be doing it). He has milked cows (not by hand) and went along to deliver cattle to the slaughter house-again by way of tractor and trailer on the road- some 25 miles away from the farm. I'm not to sure that I would consider seeing the slaughtering process a neat experience but it didn't seem to bother Ethan any.
As you know, the boys were our main consideration and concern in making our decision to come to Ireland. Many of you prayed and continue to pray for them. I know that those prayers have made a difference in their adjusting. A humble thank you from this mom for your petitions to our heavenly Father on their behalf. It is our prayer that Jesus will do eternal things in the hearts of our boys- as well as their Mom and Dad- while we are here.
The people in Community here are delighted to have Shelton to do some handy-man things around this big old place. He has already done all sorts of things- plumbing, electrical, painting, and lawn care.
We meet two times every day for prayer (Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings are free) once from 9 a.m.- 10 a.m. and again in the evenings from 7- 8 p.m. (or 8:30) Shelton is also available to play along on a few songs that the person who is leading the prayers has selected. On Sunday nights he is leading a time of worship from 7-until.
I have been busy doing house-hold chores [making beds, hoovering (vacuuming), washing up (doing dishes), and cleaning loos. We also rotate duties with the other 6 people in Community during the week from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. answering the phone and door and being available to guests.
On a lighter note, the milk man delivers our milk in pint size glass bottles to the back gate of the Centre every morning between 7:00 and 7:30. The Centre increased its daily order by 6 pints when the Brown family arrived. We are enjoying the food especially the deserts. They pour cream or spoon custard over almost all of them. Yummy!!! We have potatoes every day prepared one way or another. I am not complaining, I'm just glad we all like potatoes. We have had lots of hot tea and we are beginning to understand why the Irish enjoy their "cuppa" so much. I'm sure we will understand it better and better as these rainy days only get cooler.
We thank you for your interest in our lives. You really are a part of anything that we are involved in here. I must do better at keeping in touch. Now you have our e-mail address if you care to contact us.
His love and blessings to you and all that concerns you,
Samantha

From: Shelton Brown

Hello everyone!
Greetings from Rostrevor, County Down, Northern Ireland and the Christian Renewal Centre!
First of all let me apologize for not having already sent out a formal ministry report. Emailing has through several different circumstances turned out to be a bit of a problem at times. At the moment a phone line or computer of our own is not feasible and we have only last week gotten our address book typed into cyberspace, a place we get to visit on an irregular basis. Also if some of you have already received some of this information in previous emails please forgive my repeating myself in order to save time.
Well, first of all things are going very well here. We are staying very busy, as the Centre is a little short handed at the moment. All sorts of Christian groups from different denominations come to the Centre. The staff (8 of us at present) is responsible for all aspects of hosting small conferences, i.e. cooking, cleaning, laundry, maintenance, and listening. Sometimes Harry, the director of the Centre is asked to speak at these conferences and occasionally I am asked to lead worship. There is also a regular monthly meeting hosted by the Centre on the first Saturday of every month usually led by guest speakers and worship leaders. The people that come in for these meetings come from all sorts of different backgrounds, Baptist, Methodist, Catholic, Presbyterian, Church of Ireland, charismatic, former paramilitary/terrorist groups, prayer ministry leaders, street outreach leaders, youth leaders, etc. Many of the groups and individuals that come often comment on how they sense the presence of the Lord while they are here.
Since the Centre considers it's main mandate to be prayer, and since Samantha and I are here (they haven't had a worship leader on staff for sometime), and since there are no Sunday evening services in the village, Harry thought it would be good to start a worship/intercession time on Sunday nights. The Lord has been very gracious and his presence has been strong in these meetings at times. A few people from the surrounding area and our village, Rostrevor, have been coming. Two of them are Matthew and Clare. Matthew is the youth minister at the local Catholic church. The village of Rostrevor is over 90% Catholic, so needless to say we have been very excited about this. He and Clare are so hungry for more of the Lord. After the first night he left with one of the former community/staff members and went up to the local pub. According to the account he could hardly talk except to say, "Wow!" He did say that all he had been taught was head knowledge, but there was no connection. Well he and Clare have got the connection now! They have six children of their own and have been here almost every Sunday night. A few months ago they went to hear Michael W. Smith and Delirious in concert in Belfast and recently attended "Worship Belfast 2006" with Robin Mark, Matt Redman and Chris Tomlin and were blown away. He said, I've never experienced anything like it.
Nigel, Harry and Dorothy's son, around 21, has been a wonderful blessing to the boys. He is not here all the time but when he comes he is so much fun and so in love with Jesus. Recently Nigel organized the Centre's first 24-7 prayer event (see
www.24-7prayer.com). Young people came from all over Northern Ireland and prayed and worshiped from Friday night through Sunday morning. Some of them were from a fishing village down the road, Kilkeel, where 80 young men were born again this summer, something almost unheard of in many, many years. We had some very moving and powerful times of worship with this committed group of young people. Two more of these meetings are now planned for April and June.
Another significant happening since our coming is the completion of Harry's book, "Heal Not Lightly." We are delighted that one of the largest Christian publishers in the UK accepted it for publication last week. The whole community/staff here has been trying to give Harry time and space to complete it. The book is badly needed and will cause some shaking here in Northern Ireland especially amongst the main Protestant denominations.
There is more pain and anger in this country than I can go into right now. The young people as a whole are fed up with dead religion and see no way out of a hopeless future. Please pray that the Lord will break through. He loves them so much. They have so much to offer. For hundreds of years this was the number one nation in the world for sending out missionaries. And now many kids on the street don't know why we celebrate Christmas and Easter and these are school holidays over here! And most of these kids go to Christian/church schools.
Please thank God with us for:
1) Our good health
2) The car that was given to us (It took two months and several trips to the scrap yard to get it going but all's well now). What a blessing.
3) His Spirit moving in the local Catholic church
4) For the opportunities He has given Ethan, William and Giles
5) His provision all around

Please pray for:
1) The "Alpha" program begun this week in the local Catholic church. "Alpha" is a Bible based program designed to bring people into an intimate relationship with Jesus. The Centre has had an integral part to play in this and we are VERY excited! The church has no prayer ministry as yet and the program leaders are asking for all the prayer they can get.
2) Nigel, and the 24-7 ministry he is trying to establish in the heart of Belfast which will go hand in hand with street ministry. Also the Centre's involvement with these young people.
3) Us, as we meet and build relationships with people in the village and elsewhere.
4) Continued freedom in the relationships amongst all the community/staff here at the Centre. Living 24 hours a day with one another, well, you can imagine.
5) Harry and his family's personal safety after the book is released. Peoples lives have been threatened over here for less than this.
6) The boys home schooling
7) A good deal on return tickets home!
I must go now before this gets any longer. There are so many good things I'd like to share with you if I had the time and space.
Much Love and Blessings!
Shelton
PS
If you'd like to visit the Christian Renewal Centre web sight the address is
www.crc-rostrevor.org

My Blog...

2006-03-22T08:48:00.000-06:00

I'm beginning to understand about the blog's purpose. I've posted numerous blogs of "whatnots" and potential chuckles. But here recently, I've feel that I should be using it to share experiences and testimonies..."We overcome by the blood of the lamb and by the word of our TESTIMONY." So, I've decided to start using this blog to share the things that I've witnessed in my lifetime. I don't have the time to write the book people have asked for, but I will throw out bits and pieces as time allows. We are to, "Stir up one another's faith." So I'd like hear of your stories and testimonies as well. Be blessed...

Pray for our Missionaries

2006-03-21T11:01:00.000-06:00

I've just spoke with Shelton Brown, who is a member of Vineyard-Anniston. He is currently serving as a missionary in Northern Ireland. Remember him and Samantha in your prayers as they are serving the Lord in a region with a history of conflict. Shelton and Sam have always been one of my favorite praise/worship singers and leaders. He is truly "called" to do the will of our Lord and I hope that they continue to press on sharing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

I will relay his email address to those of you who would like to stay in touch with him. I know that when I was a missionary, it always warmed my heart to hear from those back home. It gave me a sense of security and love. I will always remember those who took time out to just say, "Hi" and, "We're praying for you!"

A website from where Shelton and Sam are staying is: http://www.crc-rostrevor.org/website/people.htm

To email Shelton and Sam: sbmt2237@msn.com

Freedom

2006-03-20T13:34:00.000-06:00

I was talking on the sidewalk after church Sunday and realized that a lot of people have no clue to just how deep and complex the word freedom is. Of course we have freedoms in America such as freedom of speech and freedom of religion...among others. But with these well known and established freedoms...are we really free? To zero in on my point, let's look from within. Do we worry what others think of us, or how others percieve us. Do we need to look and dress a certain way to get the positive feedback we are expecting? Are we judged by our outter appearance and not the heart? Also, are we struggling financially? Could we give up some "pleasure" items in order to achieve a monetary equillibrium?
I've delt with such issues before and I know how they affect us. I used to stay at home if my hair wouldn't do right. I wouldn't go to church until my clothes were perfect or my car had to be clean and washed. I've cheated myself out of a lot of blessings due to these personal hangups. One day the lord showed me...and it wasn't pretty. I had to force myself to be seen without my hat, or to wear my shirt out of my pants, or to drive a dirty car, and etc. Then I had to deal with the religious spirits that say that I had to dress up in honor of our Lord and Savior. The bible clearly teaches us that God doesn't look on the appearance of man, but in his heart. The HEART! I need to focus more on the HEART than on external things. I've seen it all...from religion to politics. Even in the work place...it's stronger than ever. I choose to please God with my heart and not to worry about silly politics, popularity, acceptance, and etc. I am currently learning about financial freedom.
Ok, I've got that off my chest...
Until later, I love you!

2006-03-15T16:01:00.000-06:00

Do you think cloning is ethical? Why or why not?

Michael's Sermon

2006-03-14T08:43:00.000-06:00

On Sunday, March 12, Michael preached an awesome message. I was drawn to a particular verse that points out my life's continuous situation. Many have said that I have lived 5 life-times of experiences... and should write a book about them. The scripture was 2 Corinthians 4:16-18. It literally tells you that all the trials and tribulations amount to an eternal reward. It really touched my heart, although I've probably read dozens of times back in yester-years. This time it took on a whole new meaning. Thanks Michael for hearing...and sharing.

Faith #2

2006-03-08T11:17:00.000-06:00

Faith
A religious man is on top of a roof during a great flood. A man comes by in a boat and says "get in, get in!"
The religous man replies, " no I have faith in God, he will grant me a miracle."
Later the water is up to his waist and another boat comes by and the guy tells him to get in again.
He responds that he has faith in god and god will give him a miracle.
With the water at about chest high, another boat comes to rescue him, but he turns down the offer again cuz "God will grant him a miracle."
With the water at chin high, a helicopter throws down a ladder and they tell him to get in, mumbling with the water in his mouth, he again turns down the request for help for the faith of God.
He arrives at the gates of heaven with broken faith and says to Jesus, "I thought God would grant me a miracle and I have been let down."
Jesus chuckles and responds, "I don't know what you're complaining about, we've sent you three boats and a helicopter."

R U There?

2006-03-07T13:11:00.000-06:00

Hello, is anyone out there...It's been quiet here lately.

Why do I ride?

2006-03-03T13:54:00.000-06:00

Why do I ride? A logical question that brings an illogical answer. Illogical to those who have never experienced it. I can only search the English vocabulary for so many words to describe it.
The first and most spotlighted word is FREEDOM. There's just something about riding into the sunset, long hair flying in the wind...oops, mine flew away. The tranquility of the ride, especially with like-minded people can be likened unto an eagle effortlessly soaring over a beautiful mountaineous landscape. The peace that is absorbed during this time tends to wash the hectic, problematic everyday life into a fading memory. I've seen helmet stickers that read: "I don't need therapy, I own a motorcycle." This is true...stress seems to vanish with each passing mile.
Now, combine this peace with the peace of God, what do you have...no, not zolof, but a double portion of the kind of spirit God intends for us. A spirit of peace..."blessed are the peace makers..." My rides are a form of peace making within myself.

Now comes the downside..."Stay away from people talking on cell phones!" I've almost been wipe-out twice this year by people talking on cell phones...especially teenagers. Rick (Holiday) and I were at the foot of the mountain and had a green light. We were about to go through and turn left to go up the mountain. I had a nanosecond to see the car running the redlight and slamming on the brakes. Rick took two nanoseconds. The car swerved into another lane to keep from hitting us. There...at that moment...I had to quickly remember that I was a Christian and that I was to be forgiving like Christ. I had a nanosecond of "fight" in me that was raging into volcanic proportions. We decided to continue on our way and just forgive the guy.

If you know of anyone who rides and is a "sold-out" Christian, please send them my way. The Faith Riders Ministry is really growing. Check out the web site...come back and comment. I'm open for all suggestions. The link is: http://faithriders-alabama.com

Ride On
Scott

Christian Bands of the 70's - 80's

2006-02-28T09:59:00.000-06:00

This may mirror Michael's blog a little, but when he was asking about bands from the past I started daydreaming about Christian bands. My precious moments of being blessed by certain groups or soloist still give me chills, tears, or sadness when I hear them or think about them. I truly miss Keith Green, John Michael Talbot, Maranatha Singers, Amy Grant, Michael W. Smith, Sandi Patti, David Meece, Dallas Holmes & Praise, Squier Parsons, even the Gold City Boys.
Local groups that blessed me were Tim & Terri Abel , Bob McCleod, JILOA, New Creation, uhhh...I'm suffering from a block at the moment. Can you guys name some of the Christian Artist that I'm forgetting? Also, do you remember a male duet group by the name of "Harvest" that played often in Alabama back in 1984? I'm trying to find their music.

2006-02-23T13:06:00.000-06:00

THE EARLY YEARS: This was me when I got my first bike.

2006-02-22T12:58:00.000-06:00

Come on folks...it's never too late! Grab yourself a bike and let's go!

2006-02-21T13:14:00.000-06:00

Some biker chicks I've witnessed to...they should show up at church soon.

2006-02-21T13:13:00.000-06:00

David might appreciate these action figures...who do they look like? The one one the right looks very familiar within Vineyard circles.

Alabama Churches Reaching Out To Bikers

2006-02-17T11:00:00.000-06:00

Alabama churches reaching out to bikers
By Erin Webster April 8, 2004

As the revving of motorcycle engines fills the air, worshipers rush inside the church. Some riders watch them, engines idling. Others don’t notice them as they focus on getting ready to ride. Though some are on Harleys, they’re not Hell’s Angels. It’s a group of bikers on a mix of bike brands riding to lunch after attending Bible study and worship at The Church at Brook Hills in Birmingham. This scene may be played out at more and more of Alabama’s Baptist churches as members begin to reach out and offer programs specifically for bikers. Sammy Gilbreath, director of the office of evangelism at the Alabama Baptist State Board of Missions, said as the biker culture is growing, so too are efforts to reach this changing population. “The biker stereotype is changing. There is still the rebel culture, but bikers today are usually husbands and wives riding together. They’re affluent, white-collar and successful. It’s very much the unchurched CEO biker.” Gilbreath’s office has begun a push to reach these bikers through its intentional evangelism initiative. “Intentional evangelism is finding what people are passionate about and turning that into intentional evangelism,” Gilbreath said, noting his office has developed witnessing tracts for bikers. “[Christians] have cocooned ourselves away from the unchurched. This is trying to send us back in by plugging into people’s passion.” The Church at Brook Hills has set aside biker parking and begun a biker Sunday School class, also known as a relational Bible fellowship (RBF). Keith Edge, co-founder of the biker RBF said, “Even though bikers look different, we love the Lord just as well as the people in a suit or dress (on Sunday).” Many of the members may dress up during the week as pharmacists, nurses, realtors and other professionals, but at Brook Hills they feel comfortable wearing the clothes of their biker identities. “We’re accepted as what we are and not trying to clean up to what a church wants us to be,” said James Jones, former Shelby County sheriff. “We have people coming to RBF in jeans, boots, leather chaps (riding) gear, ponytails, earrings and tattoos.” Jones, who also helped begin the class, said when he was sheriff he had a hard time when dealing with people who looked like the typical biker stereotype. But being in the class and riding with other bikers taught Jones to “look past the outer appearance and into the hearts of these people.” Jones said, “It all goes to God giving a vision to reach the unchurched and the motorcycle is a vehicle to bring people to church as they are.” This is a lesson Jeannie Brooks knows well. She and her husband, Bill — known to the RBF as Brooks — attended church growing up, but marriage, a changing work schedule and buying a pair of Harleys helped keep them from going. When Jeannie Brooks heard about the class at Brook Hills, she decided to try it out. “It was total acceptance,” she said. “You didn’t walk into the sanctuary and have people look at you like you’re weird. “It was the first time I ever wanted a Bible of my own so I could look at it and see what they were talking about,” she said. She and Brooks are now regular attenders. At a recent RBF — which meets at 7:45 a.m. on Sundays — Brook Hills Pastor Rick Ousley told the class he enjoys telling others about them. “It’s so much fun telling people ... how you get up early, how faithful you are and how we have parking just for you,” he said. “The Biker RBF is the perfect model of what we desire The Church at Brook Hills to be,” Ousley said. “A place where hurting people are helped, lonely people are loved, and all people are accepted.” Other churches in Alabama are launching similar efforts. Associations and churches are partnering with the SBOM, Gilbreath and Christian biker associations to hold motorcycle rides and rallies. Jerry Grandstaff, director of missions for Columbia Association, said interest in biker ministries is growing in the Dothan area. “This is all relatively new for us,” he said. “This is really taking off, and the association is excited about how we can touch lives.” The association has teamed up with the Christian motorcycle clubs in the area to hold an annual Christian biker rally on Labor Day. It also joins with the Christian Motorcycle Association (CMA) to do witnessing and ministry when secular biker events come to the area. Gilbreath’s office provides the tracts that the association hands out. Grandstaff, who is himself a biker, said biker ministries interest him “not just because I’m a biker, but because there’s a need there. “When we target a need, we need to develop a strategy to meet that need,” he said. Other churches have also partnered with CMA or Faith Riders MM to hold rides and rallies. Recently, Brook Hills, Pelham’s Valleydale Baptist Church and Birmingham’s The Church at Shelby Crossings joined with CMA for a “Son Ride.” Pastor Mike Satterfield, who suited up in leathers and rode his bike for the event, said Shelby Crossings is developing plans for its own biker Bible study. “This ministry reaches beyond the four walls of the church and allows those who would normally be ostracized from the church feel like church is for ‘whosoever will,’” he said. Matt Hall, pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, Russellville, said biker rallies offer opportunity to spread the gospel. “The goal is not to get Christian bikers to come to our church one Sunday. The goal is to get lost bikers to come hear the gospel and get saved.” Calvary hosts a biker rally each July. First Baptist Church, Jacksonville, will hold its first Easter “Blessing of the Bikes” rally April 11. It will be followed by a charity ride to benefit the Jacksonville Christian Outreach Center, a local shelter. Born from Pastor Bert Breland’s experience of blessing the boats while growing up in Florida, the rally is sponsored by the church and the Mercy Riders, a local branch of the CMA. “It’s another way the church can reach out,” Breland said. “We hope it will be an annual thing.”Rex Parvin, a member of Valleydale, said a group of bikers meets at the church on good weather days to ride out to a destination for fellowship and a message, but plans are in the works to begin a Sunday morning Bible study also. Gilbreath encourages churches who want to begin a biker ministry to prepare their congregations to accept people who will look, act and talk differently from what members may be used to. He added that having parking set aside for motorcycles not only builds community as the bikers park and mingle before and after church, it also shows bikers the church accepts them. It can also prevent safety issues that can arise when trying to ride a motorcycle among cars. “You’ve got to allow them to be who they are,” Gilbreath said.

If you have time, check out my new website:
It's located on my links section to the right as Alabama Faith Riders.

Scott Gibbs

A Dead Church

2006-02-16T10:12:00.000-06:00

A new Pastor in a small Oklahoma town spent the first four days making personal visits to each of the members, inviting them to come to his first services.
The following Sunday the church was all but empty. Accordingly, the Pastor placed a notice in the local newspapers, stating that, because the church was dead, it was everyone's duty to give it a decent Christian burial. The funeral would be held the following Sunday afternoon, the notice said.
Morbidly curious, a large crowd turned out for the "funeral." In front of the pulpit, they saw a closed coffin, smothered in flowers. After the Pastor delivered the eulogy, he opened the coffin and invited his congregation to come forward and pay their final respects to their dead church.
Filled with curiosity as to what would represent the corpse of a "dead church," all the people eagerly lined up to look in the coffin. Each "mourner" peeped into the coffin then quickly turned away with a guilty, sheepish look.
In the coffin, tilted at the correct angle, was a large mirror.

Faith

2006-02-09T10:08:00.000-06:00

A nun who works for a local home health care agency was out making her rounds when she ran out of gas. As luck would have it there was a station just down the street. She walked to the station to borrow a can with enough gas to start the car and drive to the station for a fill up.
The attendant regretfully told her that the only can he owned had just been loaned out, but if she would care to wait he was sure it would be back shortly.
Since the nun was on the way to see a patient she decided not to wait and walked back to her car. After looking through her car for something to carry to the station to fill with gas, she spotted a bedpan she was taking to the patient. Always resourceful, she carried it to the station, filled it with gasoline, and carried it back to her car.
As she was pouring the gas into the tank of her car two men walked by. One of them turned to the other and said: "Now that is what I call faith!"

Giving Back To Mom

2006-02-02T12:51:00.000-06:00

Three sons left home, went out on their own and prospered. Getting back together, they discussed the gifts they were able to give their elderly mother.

The first said, "I built a big house for our mother."
The second said, "I sent her a Mercedes with a driver."
The third smiled and said, "I've got you both beat. You remember how mom enjoyed reading the Bible? And you know she can't see very well. So I sent her a remarkable parrot that recites the entire Bible. It took elders in the church 12 years to teach him. He's one of a kind. Mama just has to name the chapter and verse, and the parrot recites it."

Soon thereafter, mom sent out her letters of thanks:
"Milton," she wrote one son, "The house you built is so huge. I live in only one room, but I have to clean the whole house."
"Gerald," she wrote to another, "I am too old to travel. I stay most of the time at home, so I rarely use the Mercedes. And the driver is so rude!"
"Dearest Donald," she wrote to her third son, "You have the good sense to know what your mother likes. The chicken was delicious.

You're Not Alone

2006-02-01T08:47:00.000-06:00

Whenever your kids are out of control, you can take comfort from the thought that even God's omnipotence did not extend to God's kids. After creating heaven and earth, God created Adam and Eve. And the first thing He said to them was: "Don't."
"Don't what?" Adam asked.
"Don't eat the Forbidden Fruit." God replied.
"Forbidden fruit? We got Forbidden Fruit?
Hey, Eve..we got Forbidden Fruit!"
"No way!"
"Where?"
"Don't eat that fruit!" said God.
"Why?"
"Because I am your Creator and I said so!" said God, wondering why he hadn't stopped after making the elephants.
A few minutes later God saw the kids having an apple break and was angry.
"Didn't I tell you not to eat that fruit?" the 'First Parent' asked.
"Uh huh," Adam replied.
"Then why did you?"
"I dunno," Eve answered.
"She started it!" Adam said.
"Did not!"
"DID so!"
"DID NOT!"
Having had it with the two of them, God's punishment was that Adam and Eve should have children of their own...thus the pattern was set, and it has never changed.

New Dentures

2006-01-30T15:20:00.000-06:00

A minister just had all of his remaining teeth pulled and new dentures were being made. The first Sunday, he only preached 10 minutes. The second Sunday, he preached only 20 minutes. But, on the third Sunday, he preached 1 hour 25 minutes.
When asked about this by some of the congregation, he responded this way.
The first Sunday, my gums were so sore it hurt to talk.
The second Sunday, my dentures were hurting a lot.
The third Sunday, I accidentally grabbed my wife's dentures... and I couldn't stop talking!

Rest in Peace

2006-01-23T15:27:00.000-06:00

One Sunday morning, the pastor noticed little Alex was staring up at the large plaque that hung in the foyer of the church. The plaque was covered with names, and small American flags were mounted on either side of it. The seven-year-old had been staring at the plaque for some time, so the pastor walked up, stood beside him and said quietly, "Good morning, Alex."
"Good morning, Pastor," replied the young man, still focused on the plaque. "Pastor McGhee, what is this?" Alex asked.
"Well, son, it's a memorial to all the men and women who have died in the service."
Soberly, they stood together, staring at the large plaque. Little Alex's voice was barely audible when he finally managed to ask, "Which one, the 9:00 or 10:30 service?

NO ANSWER!

2006-01-18T08:35:00.000-06:00

A new pastor moved into town and went out one Saturday to visit his parishioners. All went well until he came to one house. It was obvious that someone was home, but no one came to the door even after he had knocked several times. Finally, he took out his card and wrote on the back: Revelation 3:20 and stuck it in the door.

The next day, as he was counting the offering and he found his card in the collection plate. Below his message was the notation Genesis 3:10.

Revelation 3:20 reads: "Behold I stand at the door and knock. If any man hear my voice, and opens the door, I will come in to him, and will dine with him, and he with me."

Genesis 3:10 reads: "And he said, I heard thy voice in the garden, and I was afraid, because I was naked."

2006-01-12T15:41:00.000-06:00

Peace at last!

Heavenly Reminder

2006-01-12T14:35:00.000-06:00

I am God. Today I will be handling all of your problems. Please remember that I do not need your help. If life happens to deliver a situation to you that you cannot handle, do not attempt to resolve it. Kindly put it in the SFGTD (something for God to do) box. It will be addressed in My time, not yours. Once the matter is placed into the box, do not hold onto it.

If you find yourself stuck in traffic; Don't despair. There are people in this world for whom driving is an unheard of privilege.

Should you have a bad day at work; Think of the man who has been out of work for years.

Should you despair over a relationship gone bad; Think of the person who has never known what it's like to love and be loved in return.

Should you grieve the passing of another weekend; Think of the man in dire straits, working twelve hours a day, seven days a week to feed his children.

Should your car break down, leaving you miles away from assistance; Think of the paraplegic who would love the opportunity to take that walk.

Should you notice a new gray hair in the mirror; Think of the cancer patient in chemo who wishes she had hair to examine.

Should you find yourself at a loss and pondering what is life all about, asking what is my purpose? Be thankful. There are those who didn't live long enough to get the opportunity.

Should you find yourself the victim of other people's bitterness, ignorance, smallness or insecurities; Remember, things could be worse. You could be them!!!!

Brother & Sisters: Let's count our blessings rather than our shortcomings.
Scott

Confessions of Secret Sins

2006-01-11T15:16:00.000-06:00

Three pastors went to the pastor convention and were all sharing one room. The first pastor said, "Let's confess our secret sins one to another. I'll start - my secret sin is I just love to gamble. When I go out of town, it's cha-ching cha-ching, let the machines ring."

The second pastor said, "My secret sin is that I just hate working. I copy all my sermons from those given by other pastors."

The third pastor said, "My secret sin is gossiping and, oh boy, I just can't wait to get out of this room!"

Laughter - - Medicine for the Soul

2006-01-10T15:41:00.000-06:00

I am beginning to put more and more slightly humorous posts on this blog for unknown reasons. I feel compelled to do it more often than not. Yes, I do have a serious side, but I love to see people smile or laugh. So, I would like to keep the funnies coming until I feel like being serious. Any objections? Should I keep my funnies coming? Because I've got a load to share!! Let me know...

Scott

Church Bloopers

2006-01-10T12:24:00.000-06:00

Here are some church bloopers found in programs or bulletins. Enjoy!

1) Scouts are saving aluminum cans, bottles, and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children.

2) The outreach committee has enlisted 25 visitors to make calls on people who are not afflicted with any church.

3) Evening massage - 6 p.m.

4) The Pastor would appreciate it if the ladies of the congregation would lend him their electric girdles for the pancake breakfast next Sunday morning.

5) The audience is asked to remain seated until the end of the recession.

6) Low Self-Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 to 8:30 p.m. Please use the back door.

7) Ushers will eat latecomers.

8) The third verse of Blessed Assurance will be sung without musical accomplishment.

9) For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs.

10) The Rev. Merriwether spoke briefly, much to the delight of the audience.

11) The pastor will preach his farewell message, after which the choir will sing, "Break Forth Into Joy."

12) During the absence of our pastor, we enjoyed the rare privilege of hearing a good sermon when J.F. Stubbs supplied our pulpit.

13) Next Sunday Mrs. Vinson will be soloist for the morning service. The pastor will then speak on "It's a Terrible Experience."

14) Due to the Rector's illness, Wednesday's healing services will be discontinued until further notice.

Bats in the Church Attic

2006-01-09T13:38:00.000-06:00

Bats in the church attic

Three Pastors in the south were having lunch in a diner. One of them said, "You know, since summer started I've been having trouble with them flying bats in my loft and attic at church. I've tried everything, but nothing seems to scare them off."

Another pastor said, "Yes, me too. I've got hundreds living in my belfry and in the narthex attic. I've even had the place fumigated, and they won't go away!"

The third pastor said, "I baptized all mine, made them members of the church, and I haven't seen a single one back since!"

Who is better than Santa?

2005-12-29T08:17:00.000-06:00

Who's Better than Santa?

Santa lives at the North Pole.
JESUS is everywhere.

Santa rides in a sleigh
JESUS rides on the wind and walks on the water.

Santa comes but once a year
JESUS is an ever present help.

Santa fills your stockings with goodies
JESUS supplies all your needs.

Santa comes down your chimney uninvited
JESUS stands at your door and knocks.. and then enters your heart.

You have to stand in line to see Santa
JESUS is as close as the mention of His name.

Santa lets you sit on his lap
JESUS lets you rest in His arms.

Santa doesn't know your name, all he can say is "Hi little boy or girl, What's your name?"
JESUS knew our name before we did. Not only does He know our name, He knows our address too. He knows our history and future and He even knows how many hairs are on our heads.

Santa has a belly like a bowl full of jelly
JESUS has a heart full of love.

All Santa can offer is HO HO HO
JESUS offers health, help and hope.

Santa says "You better not cry"
JESUS says "Cast all your cares on me for I care for you.

Santa's little helpers make toys
JESUS makes new life, mends wounded hearts, repairs broken homes and builds mansions.

Santa may make you chuckle but
JESUS gives you joy that is your strength.

While Santa puts gifts under your tree
JESUS became our gift and died on the tree.

It's obvious there is really no comparison. We need to remember WHO Christmas is all about. We need to put Christ back in Christmas. Jesus is still the reason for the season. Yes, Jesus is better, he is even better than Santa Claus!

Vineyard Comedy

2005-12-28T12:54:00.000-06:00

A man came into the Vineyard several weeks ago and said that it was his anniversary. He was dressed-up and looking great. He said that he was going to take his wife somewhere expensive.
I asked him where he was going to take her and he replied, "To a service (gas) station!"
This is a true story!!!

2005-12-27T10:52:00.000-06:00

My Future

Post-Christmas Blues

2005-12-27T09:27:00.000-06:00

Have you ever felt that you've aged considerably in a relatively short period of time? If you haven't, then you are not a father. It seems when December 26th arrives, I have aged approximately 7 years. All of the shopping, spending, Christmas events, traveling, and to top it off, playing Santa Claus which entails putting all the toys and other gifts together after midnight and having them spread out under the tree in an orderly fashion. Then you hear voices while in a "REM" level of sleep. The voices tug and tug. They draw you from an awesome state of comfort and warmth. Finally, when I surrender to the voices, I open my eyes and see very excited children. Well, this was usually the case. Now my children are teenagers...Now I have to battle the alarm clock, and now I'm the one who has to transmit the voices to the teen's REM sleeping stage. I am the one who has to stay up late doing the gifts and getting up early and ressurect the dead.
Now comes the "I didn't want this, I didn't want that!" And then you hear, "This is the wrong color," or "This is the wrong kind." Then Father "Bright eyes" has to go exchange all the gifts, and it usually requires extra expenses to pay for the right "wanted" items. This usually takes an entire day. When the day is over, you feel that you've run your course and now you can relax and enjoy some time off! But wait, wait! What day is this? Oh, no! I've got to go to work in the morning! Ohhhhhhh nnnnnnoooooooo! I know this sounds a little drastic, but I wouldn't trade anything for it. These stressful times are actually fulfilling and they create beautiful memories. The smiles and the excitement create wonderful memories that would make any parent just beam with satisfaction! I'm thankful for the opportunity to be a father, a provider, and a smile maker.
Until next year...Merry CHRISTmas and Happy New Year!