The Last Day Of January

Today was spent in Panera Bread discussing new ideas for ministry, plus making preparations for our Baptism service this coming Sunday. I am so stoked about baptizing Diane, Steven, and Christa. Last year, we had a total of two baptisms, so, with that being said, we are definitely striving to be more missional this year!

The first four messages of 2007 were:

1. The Biblical Basis of Baptism.


2. Addicted to the Ministry.


3. Diving Lessons.


4. Developing a Persistent Prayer Life.

I had such a good time preaching this series. I believe God used it to challenge and convict our people. January was a good month for StoneBridge. I am looking forward to what God has in store for our church in 2007. Pray for us!

A Little Cup Of Joe

Joe Alexander scores two of his game-high 23 points to help West Virginia to a 64-52 victory over DePaul Sunday afternoon in Morgantown.

All-Pro Photography/Dale Sparks

This Sunday!

The world will not change, until we are willing to be World Changers!

What If?

What if Bill Gates ran Microsoft like some pastors run their churches?
What if Michael Jordan would have quit playing basketball after being cut from the Varsity team his Sophomore year of High School?
What if Apple would have ceased making computers when Microsoft took off?
What if Jesus would have never drank the cup for us?

When I think of leadership, I think of the thousands of people who never gave up! They kept pressing forward, they continued to have innovative ideas when the world rejected them!

I received this poem several years ago, it is called:

Don't Quit

When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,

When the road you're trudging seems all up hill,

When the funds are low, and the debts are high,

And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,

When care is pressing you down a bit,

Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Life is queer with its twists and turns,

As everyone of us sometimes learns,

And many a failure turns about,

When he might have won had he stuck it out.

Don't give up though the pace seems slow,

You may succeed with another blow.

Success is failure turned inside out,

The silver tint of the clouds of doubt,

And you never can tell how close you are,

It may be near when it seems so far,

So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit,

It's when things seem worse,

that you must not quit.

-KRISTONE

God In Your IPOD

I am excited about our February Series...God In Your IPOD! More information to follow! =)

Happy Birthday Nance!

Today is my favorite (and only) mother-in-law's birthday. Happy Birthday Nancy! I am thankful for your life and for bringing my beautiful wife, your daughter, into the world. I love you!

Exciting Things Happening At StoneBridge

So far, So God! I believe Mark Batterson said that one time. So far, January has proven to be fruitful. God continues to bless us with people who are excited about following Jesus. The first Sunday in January, I preached a message on The Biblical Basis of Baptism. I felt like it was one of the best messages I had done in a long time. After the message, a young mother requested to be baptized. I was pumped! We had two baptisms the entire 2006 year.

Then, Russell called me to tell me that two (possibly three) college students wants to be baptized. Thank you, Lord. I have been so burdened about this need. I believe it is important for people who have professed Christ to make a public profession of their faith, by entering the waters of baptism. We have set a goal this year as a church to see 75 people saved and 24 baptized. Now, before I get hate mail (just kidding), I would love to see 75 people saved (if not more) and 75 people baptized, but the reality of this is not likely because each year we host a Sports Camp where several kids accept Christ. Most of these kids are either churched or have no church background. So, following up with these unchurched kids has not been productive even though we try to follow up with every person who accepts Christ as Savior.

The assimilation process of seeing people move from unchurched, saved, baptized, and a fully developing follower of Jesus Christ is difficult, and the reason I think it is difficult is because we make it difficult. We do not plan for growth. We do not remind people of what they are supposed to do. If we want to see people assimilated in our churches we must constantly remind people of what a disciple looks like. We must remind our people about the mission of the local church. It is to reach people, make more and better disciples who in turn will reach people and make more and better disciples.

One Year Anniversary

Our "Chief Musician", David Story, celebrated his one year anniversary with StoneBridge yesterday. We celebrated his arrival last night by watching the first half of the Colts game. The Colts were taking a good ole fashion whoopn' in the first half, so most everyone decided to head to the house.

I got home from the party, tucked the kids in bed, turned on the tube, and the Colts were tied with the Patriots 28-28. I couldn't believe it. After the Colts went ahead of the Patriots I got on the horn to call David. When he picked up his phone he yelled "Touchdown!" What an amazing comeback for the Colts. I am proud for David, Matt (another Hoosier in our church), and for Tony Dungy.

Happy Anniversary David!

Reason One For Not Going To Texas

Last night, Russell and I got the opportunity to preach the gospel on the campus of West Virginia University. There were probably fifty people present to honor the life of Jason Simmons. I never had the opportunity to meet Jason, but according to a host of friends, he truly made an impact on a lot of people. It was a privilege to be a part of a candle light service to honor Jason's life.

I told those gathered last night many times we wonder why bad things happen to good people. The answer is not so simple, but what I told them was that God understands the future when we can not understand. He knows our pain, our hurts, and our sufferings. The only way we can find hope in the midst of our grief is to turn to Jesus Christ. I read John 14:1-6, Romans 8:18, and 1Thessalonians 4:13-18.

I am thankful for God allowing me this opportunity to minister to the people of Morgantown!

SNAP

Thanks to Tadd Grandstaff I added this cool feature to my blog. You can view the webpage on my site before you actually go to the site. I thought this was really cool, so I added it. To check it out go to snap.

Disappointing

My family and I are supposed to be 30,000 feet in the air, right about now, but since Josiah and Jaden have been running fever, we decided to stay in North Central West Virginia.

Last Wednesday (January 10th), my son began running fever. We took him to the clinic in Westover to be told that he has a bad cold. So, things were still not good on Sunday, so we decided to take him back in to the Doctor. After a chest x-ray and his finger pricked, we were told that he had pneumonia. Dr. Mitchell gave him two shots in the legs and sent us home with antibiotics. So, the next day, Monday, we took Josiah back in for a check up. His blood count had come down and his fever seemed to be breaking. That's when Jaden started running fever and coughing.

Today, is Thursday, January 18, 2007. We were supposed to be flying to DFW today, but since our kids are still not feeling well, we had to make an important parental decision. Take our kids across country with fever, or lose $300.00. Obviously, you know what our decision was today.

I am disappointed that I will not be in Texas this week, but know that God has a purpose and a plan for every thing that takes place in our lives. I am looking forward to seeing God do something amazing in the coming days. God Bless!

Off To Texas Tomorrow

This winter has been crazy! The other day our high was 62 degrees. While it was 62 in Morgantown, Dallas, Texas temperature was 27 with freezing rain. What's this world coming to? =)

Tomorrow, my family and I will be flying to DFW. I was asked by one of my former students to officiate his wedding on Saturday. I am looking forward to visiting with old friends, family, and eating some Authentic Mexican Food. Please be in prayer for us as we travel.

Most likely, I will be on a blogging hiatus! Peace!

A Change Of Plans

I woke up this morning with an entirely different message on my heart and mind. Instead of speaking on tithing, I have decided to talk about being addicted to the ministry. My thoughts, "If we will addict ourselves to God first, then whatever He wants us to do, we'll do it!" So, I am glad to know that God is directing this ship and not me. Have a great Lord's Day! =)

Go Deep Part 2

Tomorrow's message deals with the Biblical Basis for Tithing. Our church was amazing (in this area) in 2006. I am excited to see how God is going to use our church to go deeper in our finances.

I was reminded in the Scriptures that tithing began before the Law of Moses. Many people who are opposed to tithing believe that New Testament tithing is no longer of necessity. I disagree! Abraham gave a tenth of his spoils to Melchizedek. Many believe that Melchizedek was an appearance of the Son of God, the Lord Jesus Christ. He was the King of Salem and the priest of God Most High. This indicates that tithing was practiced by the patriarch, Abram, therefore, it should be practiced by God's children.

We must remember that we have been entrusted with our finances. We are stewards (managers of the resources God gives us). It is a privilege and a blessing to give to the Lord. It is an act of worship. It is an expression of gratitude for the manifold blessings God has bestowed upon us. Tithing should not be looked upon as a duty, but a privilege.

Sweet Pic Of Joe Alexander

This was the dunk I was talking about in my sermon last Sunday. It was nasty!

CityReach 2007

I just finished a conference call with the Board of Directors for CityReach 2007. CityReach Loveland will take place on June 8-15, 2007 in Loveland, Colorado. It is going to be another exciting week of ministry. There will be different ministry tracks for students and adults to participate in this year, such as: Car Wash, Sports Camp, Construction Ministry, C.O.P.S., and Vacation Bible School.

Chad Graves, Monticello, Arkansas is the guest speaker, and Two Copper Coins will be leading worship each night. The cost is $356.00.

What Does the Cost Cover?

The total registration cost ($356) covers all of your lodging for the week, which in most cases will be a college dorm room. The cost also covers meals for the week. The programming for the week is also covered in the cost, including guest speakers, worship leaders and bands that will be ministering to us in the evenings. The cost also covers the logistics and planning to make a CityReach project possible. The cost also includes necessary materials to run the various ministry tracks. The group outing is covered (i.e. Whitewater Rafting, National Park fees, Bowling, Recreation Facilities). Every participant will receive a CityReach T-shirt.

Make your plans to attend CityReach 2007!

After One Week Of Going Deep

Last Sunday, I preached about the Biblical Basis of Baptism. I truly felt like the message flowed, and the people were engaged in what I was saying. I talked about the need for people who have accepted Christ as their Savior to follow Christ in baptism.

This past year we had two baptisms. Although, we rejoice in the two precious people that were saved and baptized, I am disappointed that our church did not baptize more people.

One of the reasons we did not baptize more people is because Russell and I did not address the people enough about this important doctrine. Now, we know that baptism doesn't save anyone, but what we do know is that it is very important if we want to grow in our relationship with Christ and the discipleship process! Not only that, but it is a prerequisite to church membership.

In the Bible, baptism was always done by immersion, and it always happened after a faith decision. I am excited that one person responded to the call to be baptized. On January 28, 2007, Diane will follow Christ in baptism!

Thank You

Mom finally came home from the hospital yesterday after lunch. The Doctors told her that her heartbeat was irregular (causing chest pains, etc). Their plan is to keep her on the same medicine with the same doses.

For all of you who were praying, Thank You!

Prayer For Mom

For those of you who read this blog, please say a prayer for my mother (Kentucky). I took her to Ft. Hamilton Hospital last night after the Buckeyes game. She was complaining of Chest Pains. I was at the hospital until 5:00 a.m.

The Cardiologist is supposed to examine her today, and figure out what they need to do next. Most likely, they will give her a stress test to see if the blockages in her heart have gotten worse. Thanks!

Top 10 For 2007

After an embarassing finish by the Buckeyes last night, the Florida Gators deserve to be #1. They kicked tail and took names! There are two things that this game taught us:

1. Ted Ginn is a huge part of the Buckeyes Offense.


2. Florida is really good! (DUH!)

Okay, now, I have to give proper respect to the SEC (there you go, Scott Bates, I hope you are happy! =)

Here is a link to next year's preseason polls: Mountaineers are #5!

Go Buckeyes!

I am looking forward to hanging out with my boys from the Buckeye State tonight. We will be watching the National Championship Game in a Garage that is totally dedicated to the Buckeyes! It's going to be awesome!

A Wonderful Celebration

I celebrated my 34th birthday yesterday. First of all, it is amazing how fast time goes by. I can't believe I am 34! It seems just like yesterday I was running the roads, hoopn' at Armco Park, and getting into trouble. =)

Yesterday was spent preaching, eating, and traveling. Kristie, Mom, the kids, Nelson (my dog) and I loaded up the Explorer and headed to the Buckeye State. Mom has been visiting with us for about a week or so. It was good to have her in our home.

We had a good time visiting with the good folks of Inwood, West Virginia this weekend. They brought their Student Ministry to Morgantown to treat our kids to a puppet show. First Baptist Church of Inwood has invested their time, money, and resources to help our church plant move forward. I am very proud to have them as our sending church. They are the best sending church in the country! If I didn't believe that, I would look for another one. I appreciate Pastors Devin, Tim, Jim and Greg for their continual leadership!

Go Deep Series Logos

Our First Date Of 2007

My mom has been visiting with us since last Friday night. We have truly enjoyed having her with us.

Tonight, Kristie and I took advantage of her being here. We went on our first date of 2007, and let me tell you we had a lot of fun. We went to the movies and watched Night in the Museum. It was awesome!

If you haven't seen this movie you ought to check it out. With names like Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, Owen Wilson and a cast of others how could you miss it!

A Challenge To My Life Transformation Group

Yesterday's LTG lasted for 2 1/2 hours. I met with Steve and Ephraim for breakfast, prayer and Bible study. I challenged the guys to start thinking about multiplication (thanks, Noah). I told them that by April 1, 2007, I wanted our LTG to multiply. I asked the guys to start thinking about finding another person to do life with on Thursday mornings. The more people involved in LTG's and Small Groups the better accountability our church will have with one another. It's a God thing!

Good Links

Here are some links for daily Bible reading. I have found these links very helpful for the audio learner. Audio Bible Links and Bible Gateway.

Go Deep

Sunday starts a new series for the 2007 Church Year! I have entitled this series Go Deep! The main idea behind the series is to get people thinking about baptism, discipleship, and fellowship within StoneBridge Baptist Church.

I am excited to see how God is going to use this series of messages to impact the lives of people. I am excited to share with people the need to Go Deep with God.

So far (like most years), I have started the year out strong in my Bible reading. One of the things I am doing is reading three to four chapters a day in the New Testament. If I will continue this, I will be finished with the New Testament by the end of 90 days. This is exciting. I thank God for the New Year, because it gives me a fresh start at going deeper with the Lord.

If you have not started your daily Bible reading, I want to encourage you to find time each day to read three or four chapters. It really isn't that hard to do. It takes about 17-20 minutes per day. Come on, YOU CAN DO IT!

If you are an audio learner, you can go to Audio Bible to listen to Alexander Scourby read the entire Bible.

Whatever you do, do it all for the glory and honor of Christ. Peace!

The Mountaineers Are For Real

Last night I got the opportunity to watch the Mountaineers play Villanova. Frank Young tied a school record hitting 8 three pointers. It was awesome! At one time the Mountaineers had a 22 point lead over the Wildcats. This team is for real!

Joe Alexander came to CityReach this past Summer to help with our Sports Camp. He is a great guy. Ever since June, I have been meeting with Joe. He has been telling me that this team is for real, but I haven't had the chance to see them play until last night. I am thankful for his friendship. He ended the game with 16 points.

BTW, I bought Joe's #11 Jersey last night! It is sweet!

All-Pro Photography/Dale Sparks

Sometimes I Just Don't Think

Kristie, the kids, and I went for a walk tonight. After our walk, I decided to start a fire in my new portable fire pit. I was excited! Then, after tons of smoke from wet straw and wood, I knew the fire wasn't going to amount to much.

So, I got all smokey and nasty for naught. I jumped in the shower so I wouldn't be reeking of smoke as I make my way to the Colosseum to watch the Mountaineers take on Villanova. It should be lots of fun!




I am looking forward to watching my boy, Joe Alexander put on a Dunk Fest! =)

My Story

Mark Batterson inspired me to print out my 2006 Blog entries. After about an hour's worth of printing, I had 144 pages of entries, compared to Mark's 400.

Back in the Spring of 2006, I became intrigued by the concept of blogging after reading a fellow pastor's blog. I loved his stories, authenticity, and love for Christ. So, I thought I would begin my journey in the blogosphere. I am thankful to be a part of the blog world. I feel so inadequate (when it comes to writing), because (as Napoleon Dynamite would say) "I don't have any skills." =)

Taking a look at these entries, I am reminded that my life is telling a story. In Acts 3:19 the Bible says, "Repent ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out, when the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord" I love this verse for several reasons, but the main reason I love this verse is because of the words "blotted out". In Bible days, ink did not have acid in it. So, when people wrote on the parchments, it could easily be wiped away so that they could start afresh.

Here's the application: When we repent of our sins, God gives us a new page. We have a fresh start on life. I am thankful for God's forgiveness in my life. I pray that as people read my story that somewhere they would get a glimpse of Christ. God Bless you all, and Happy New Year!

Let's Go Mountaineers

Special thanks to Russell and Belinda for a great day! My family and I enjoyed visiting with the Knights and the Johnsons today. We kicked back, ate, and watched the Mountaineers come back to beat Georgia Tech, 38-35 (without Steve Slaton).

This Mountaineer team has been fun to watch this season. I have enjoyed seeing Pat White, Steve Slaton, Owen Schmitt, Brandon Myles, Marc Magro, Jay Henry, Eric Wicks, and Pat McAfee do what they do on the field.

Even though this season is over, I am looking forward to the 2007 Season. It is going to be off the chain!

Patrick White (All-Pro Photography/Dale Sparks)