Fruit Stand

Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds (fruit) and praise your Father in heaven....Matthew 5:16 niv

One of the things the Bible indicates will be a clear sign of our commitment to God will be our actions, deeds, works, or fruit. And while those words are often debated the principle is simple. If we claim to be Christians then the actions of our lives should prove it. In our culture, talk is cheap. But when someone puts their what they believe into action, it proves that their beliefs have made it into their heart.

As a Christian we often lose sight of the reason why God wants us to produce fruit in our lives. Why does he want us to produce love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control? -Galatians 5:22-23 nlt Why is this so important to God? It's important because the fruit is for others! He wants our lives to serve as a walking billboard to how great God is. God has a plan. In John 12:32 he lets us in on it when Jesus says, "...as I am lifted up, I will attract everyone to me..." -Message Bible His "Plan A" is for every Christian to produce fruit so others will "taste and see that the Lord is good."-Psalm 34:8

So what should we do? We should set up a fruit stand! We should strive to allow our lives to produce as much fruit as possible. We should go out of our way to let others know just how wonderful our God is! Pick a spot; at work, at home, with family, or neighbors. Set up a fruit stand where people can experience who God really is!

The Power of a Thank You!

If there is a lost art in the world we live in today it's the art of appreciation and thanks. October has historically been classified as Pastor Appreciation Month. And on behalf of Tricia, myself, and all the pastors at Central Church we are so appreciative of your kind notes and gifts of thanks and encouragement. They are very special and especially encouraging.

But have you ever noticed how we've segregated appreciation & thanks into scheduled and brief moments of life. On birthdays we'll include the kind words or a card to those who are part of our lives. On wedding anniversaries we tell our significant other how much they mean to us and that we love and appreciate them. At Christmas time we'll express our love and thanks to our kids, family, or close friends by purchasing them a gift. Even the idea of Pastor Appreciation Day or Month is somewhat funny because I would have to admit that I would love to feel appreciated more than 1, 2, or 30 days per year.

I had a moment with a friend just he other day where I forced him to look me in the eye as I told him how much I appreciated what he had been doing for me. He mentioned to me later how much that meant to him. Not just that I said the random "thank you" but that I took the time to look him in the eye and really mean it.

I think we've lost the soul nourishing art of giving simple yet intentional appreciation and thanks. When was the last time we went beyond the sometimes meaningless phrase of "thanks" as you walked away, and instead you stopped for another 10 seconds and really told someone who much you appreciated them? How about with your spouse, your kids, your parents, your boss, or even your enemy? The seed of appreciation sown at the right times could prove to increase your life and the lives of others you are around. It's so simple. This week, take the time to verbally show your true appreciation to someone who deserves it.

Have a GREAT week!

5 Years & Counting

It's hard to believe but this weekend was our 5 year anniversary as the lead pastors at Central Church. When we accepted this position we were excited about the opportunity to move to the city of Green Bay and join hands with those who have made Central great for years. We believed that God was positioning us in this leadership position for a very significant & specific purpose; to reach this city with the gospel and hope of Jesus Christ.

In big and small ways we've begun that over the past 5 years. Many have stepped out of their comfort zones, made commitments to one another, and made the decision to invest their lives in the purposes and the plans of God. Tricia and I have found ourselves inspired, humbled, and challenged by your commitment & passion for God.

Now let's get primed for the next 5 years. We can't change the past but we can change the future. Our work together, along with the favor & blessing of God, has the potential of eternally changing your family, friends, neighbors, coworkers, and ultimately this city. It's not time to sit back and watch, it's time to jump up and get involved. Where are you currently serving others, investing your life, and giving of yourself? What are you doing today that will help you grow in your faith and walk with God? 5 years ago, our family moved here; we are all in! We left everything and everyone we knew to answer the call of God. Are you willing to answer the call of God right here where you are?

We're excited about this 5 year milestone, but we're even more excited about the years to come!