LOVE IN THE NAME OF CHRIST

NOW! It isn't always the right time.

2006-09-29T04:03:00.000-07:00

1 Peter 5:6 says to “Humble yourselves, therefore under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time.”

WAITING is perhaps the hardest thing to do. In our hurry up and get ‘r done attitude with our instant-everything, microwave, fast food eating and tivo entertainment we expect that our personal lives should function the same. In reality, it just doesn’t work that way!

We may thing that the problem is within ourselves. We feel guilty if our problems carry over into tomorrow or even next week. We think that we ought to “have it together” all the time. But, some things just take time! There are times when we just have to wait on God. He patiently develops perseverance and trust during these times. He reveals His nature and plan during those times when life seems to be on-hold.

Peter has it right, in due time God will lift you up. In His time table not ours. God knows best. William Cowper once wrote; “Events of all sorts creep or fly exactly as God pleases.” Be sure, God who is in control is also just on time. He is never too late or too early. He, who created the universe through the spoken word and holds the stars in place by His mighty hand, can surely handle your grief and suffering.

We may desire instant solution and demand an answer NOW! This may not be the right time. Be patient, draw near to God and He will unfold His works in due time.

In Keeping With Devotional Life - Practicing the Presence of God

2006-09-28T06:54:00.000-07:00

Today I read my devotions and made a discovery that caught my attention. In working with people who are dealing with difficult times and crisis in their lives, I often have consoled people who believe that God has abandoned them in their time of need. Many in Biblical days like Job and David have felt that God has abandoned them. Their grief was so over whelming that their interpretation of God’s presence was misunderstood.

In one scene you find David contemplating the immeasurable greatness of God. In Psalm 139:7-10 you find his narrative. He asks the question, “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?” See the end of this blog for the complete passage. It seems that at this time in David’s life the reality of God’s greatness is clear. In keeping with this, Meister Eckhart wrote: “God is nearer to me than I am to myself; my existence depends on the nearness and the presence of God.”

The part that caught my attention is the thought that if God isn’t near that many assume that He has not moved but that we have somehow gotten away from Him. Well, this thought, while rational, isn’t exactly accurate. If God is capable of being near always, should not we assume that He tracks our ever subtle movement away from Himself. While this may be semantics, I think that we should realize that as humans, we are may feel like God is far away when in reality He isn’t. Because we are self-centered and narcissistic creatures we loose focus on the reality of God’s presence but He is never far away. No matter where we may go! The problem of God’s presence isn’t found in God but in ourselves. We “loose touch” with Him and believe that somehow God takes a vacation away from us.

God isn’t always interested in our good times. He is interested in our bad times too. He isn’t afraid to draw near to us in sad times. He, in fact loves to reveal His presence to us even in bad times. The next time you ruminate over this issue of God’s presence, realize that it is impossible to escape God’s presence! The only separation many will realize is in eternity but in this life, He is near. No matter if we recognize, ignore or attempt to deny the presence of God. HE IS ALWAYS NEAR AND NOT THAT FAR AWAY!

New International Version

1 O Lord, you have searched me and you know me. 2 You know when I sit and when I rise; you perceive my thoughts from afar. 3 You discern my going out and my lying down; you are familiar with all my ways. 4 Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O Lord. 5 You hem me in--behind and before; you have laid your hand upon me. 6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too lofty for me to attain.

7 Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence? 8 If I go up to the heavens, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there. 9 If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, 10 even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast. 11 If I say, "Surely the darkness will hide me and the light become night around me," 12 even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you. 13 For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. 14 I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. 15 My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, 16 your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.

17 How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them! 18 Were I to count them, they would outnumber the grains of sand. When I awake, I am still with you. 19 If only you would slay the wicked, O God! Away from me, you bloodthirsty men! 20 They speak of you with evil intent; your adversaries misuse your name. 21 Do I not hate those who hate you, O Lord, and abhor those who rise up against you? 22 I have nothing but hatred for them; I count them my enemies. 23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.

New International Version

Being An Influence!

2006-09-18T04:20:00.000-07:00

Ezekiel 33:7-11 tells us a message that we must proclaim. God has sent
us as a watchman for those in need.

There are many courageous deeds we can do that changes a life for the
better. Even if our acts are not dramatic or life-changing, we all have
contributed good-will for others.

Ezekiel tells us that there is a message we know that changes the lives
of others. He says that there is a message we carry in which we are
responsible to communicate. We are not responsible for the choice
someone makes but we have a duty to communicate the message. God says
that while he will hold us responsible for another's choice, we have an
obligation to announce God's good news.

As we encounter those in need, we have the power over the life and death
of another. Your decision to love another possesses the power of
influence! Your act of kindness releases the extraordinary power of
influence! Your gift of time or talent unleashed the incredible power
of influence! You, yes you, when you take your watchman responsibility,
will change a life for the better!

Our message is not of judgement but that of love. Our message is not of
rebuke but of a hope of life eternal. Our message is not of my will but
of a Will and plan God has for those in need of life everlasting.

Today, what message will I no longer resist telling? What person will I
now influence? What will I sacrifice that will give and support
another?

Am I a lighthouse - life-saving station? Do people know me as a
spiritual hospital aid? Am I too busy to give for the sake of others?

Ezekiel provides us with a purpose and meaning to our influence. Not
that I gain but that others received because I didn't.

The Hoitie-Toitie!

2006-09-10T13:17:00.000-07:00

There they are, those lesser ones. They are not like us! They have a different lifestyle and make choices that aren't like ours. They are not as fortunate as we are. Thanks be to God that we are not like them.

The Hoitie-Toitie are an elite group of people that view the world as seperated and lower breed of people. These are proud and often pious, religiously pure people. Ever met one you would know it. They deliberately set themselves a part from the "impure" neighbors. You may have even been slighted by them yourself.

While these people are a special group, they lack a special love for the lost, hurting and neglected.

Today, I challenge you to examine youself. Are you part of the "Hoitie-Toitie" society? Have you seperated yourself from the calling of God to reach those in need?

Paul purposed himself to reach those in need! 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 tells us that Paul reached people by serving them and caring for the "least of them." Paul says that he worked to find common ground with all.

Today, mark your week's schedule to reach someone in need by serving them in the Name of Christ.

See all Matthew 25 as another reference.

Courage!

2006-08-30T06:09:00.000-07:00

Doing what Jesus directs us to do takes courage! In recent days I have taken a step of faith that has been challenging. In June, 2006 I have made a move to Indiana. Through prayer, God has led me and my family to take a risk for His Glory.

Cindi has taken a position at Taylor University while I waited for God to show me what He wants me to do. For two months I have remained in prayer and trepidation about what God wants me to do. I have discovered that it is not so much what He wanted me to DO but what He wanted me to BE. Interesting enough, God has been teaching me this for nearly two years! (Long story but basically His leadership in my life has taught me dependence and truth.)

Most recently I have accepted a position at Indiana Wesleyan University as Alumni Director. How awesome God is! God needed to develop a missing lesson in my life. This lesson is that is is more important to follow God than to DO my own thing! Not that I chose poorly in my life but that I must chose His more perfect way!

Some lessons are hard to learn.

A Hurricane of Compassion – By Rev. Rick Carder, Executive Director

2006-04-26T15:48:00.000-07:00

Time and time again I heard the phrase, “If it weren’t for the Church….” In March I had the incredible opportunity of joining the thousands who provided Hurricane Relief throughout the Gulf States. Serving as community chaplain with Samaritan’s Purse organization was an experience I will never forget. I, like many others, was overwhelmed by the impact of Hurricane Katrina. The devastation was incredible. The poor in those communities seemed to be impacted the most. Hurricane Katrina took lives, destroyed property and disrupted the lives of thousands of people in Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana. Mile after mile I drove along the Gulf shore and witnessed homes and businesses leveled to the ground because of the Hurricane’s impact. No one could imagine how destructive a storm could be.

As I spent time with local Police Departments, city leaders and residents I heard over and over again the impact that the Church has made. There have been hundreds of Churches and Church groups that have participated in the clean up and human services. I was impressed with the commitment of many who “stuck it out” through enormous circumstances. Many who stayed in their homes during the storm shared dramatic stories of survival. Many shared inspiring stories of everyday heroes who took incredible risks and displayed outstanding courage to help those in need. One resident spoke of how local first responders went above and beyond the call of duty to rescue a victim. There were many who spoke of powerful examples of a local community coming together to provide basic services until national help arrived.

One day I held a meeting with the Deputy Chief of a Police Department. His comment surprised me. He described that after the storm their basic services were overwhelmed. They soon realized that they had to come together and meet the basic needs of people. He talked about creating a “make shift” cafeteria to feed the people. “But soon our resources ran out,” he commented. “But, at that moment, help arrived.” He described the support that arrived first was a church group from Georgia. They were loaded with water, food and cooking supplies. “If it weren’t for the church, we could not have hung on!” He added. The church represented a hurricane of a different kind; a hurricane of compassion! Hundreds of church-based groups and thousands of people have emerged to meet needs.

I left Mississippi inspired. I gained a new motivation for working to unite churches together to meet needs. The witness of Christ’s compassion and Church cooperation was revealed to me in a whole new way! What a powerful example the body of Christ at work in a community! We can do this here in DuPage County. Churches can work together to serve the needs of the poor. LOVE Christian Clearinghouse is the networking resource for reaching needy families locally. We can have our own Hurricane of compassion!

Chaplain experiences from the Gulf Coast

2006-03-26T15:29:00.000-08:00

For information and updates about my mission trip as a chaplain to the Biloxi and Gulfport, MS area take a look at my daily blog site report at: http://rickcarder.blogspot.com

Rev Rick Carder

Testing in Times of Trouble

2006-03-16T07:03:00.000-08:00

This is a test. All through life you will be tested. The goal is not to avoid being tested. The goal is to be trustworthy! Testing will determine trust. Live from gulfport - daily blog by Rick Carder

January and February Pastor Meetings

2006-03-16T05:46:00.000-08:00

Just into the new year I began an aggressive effort of meeting pastors or our member churches as well as potential members. We are blessed to have such a wonderful community of pastors who are very compassionate and supportive to the ministry of helping low-income families. One thing that struck me most about being with pastors has been the willingness to work together in serving the poor. Part of my efforts in meeting with pastors was to update our community resource directory and strategies ways we can work together to meeting needs. I am very excited about the many wonderful ministries churches already offer to help low-income families.

As we talked, I found that many of the pastors were very willing to develop relationships and provide further resources to needy families. Once way we can do this is through our newest network resource called, "Gift of Time and Talent" that works to recruit local church volunteers. These volunteers can provide ministry "gifts" to low-income families in the form of basic car maintenance, household repairs, temporary transportation, mentoring at-risk youth, tutoring, and family support. Many of the needs of families can be met through the local church!

LOVE is a network of people, the Body of Christ, working together through volunteering. I have a curious interest in providing low-income families with "ways they can save money." This "Saving Money" directory can include services at a reduced rate. It can include qualified volunteers who can contribute their time and provide a service at a reduced rate. This could include a free oil change. This could include free tickets to sporting events. This could include free transportation to doctor appointments. Services in household repairs, winterization of windows and doors, and small appliance repairs can save what little precious resources low-income families have. The possibilities are endless! Help us build our "Saving Money" directory.

LOVE can handle the intake and referral process. We can verify the need. What we can not do is be the church - that is the mandate of local congregations through out the community. We are the network resource. Look to us to mobilize the church around the needs of low income families.

Many churches provide services like a food pantry, clothing ministry, meals, small emergency funds, classes and children programming. While these are great outreach ministries, there are so many other ways that churches can be involved relationally. People in the church are just waiting for the opportunity to give the "Gift of Time and Talent."

Helping you is helping me!

2006-03-06T15:46:00.000-08:00

Dr. Virgil Gulker once wrote a little book with the title, "Helping You Is Helping Me.". This premise of helping ourselves as we help others is a fascinating idea. To think that as we work to help those in need we wre also developing a heart of compassion.

I know that often when I am down, as I help someone in need, it lifts my spirit. It helps me to be less self-centered and more concerned about those in need. I am never disappointed when I give of myself. I not only feel better about myself but I also have a greater awareness of my world.

My challenge is to give up something that can help another in need. In doing this I am not giving up as much as I am gaining!

Transportation Needs of Low-Income Families

2006-03-05T19:50:00.000-08:00

This week’s blog comes from an article that was archived on my research articles. Those of low income are seriously affected. Take a look at some of the pressures and problems they face. As the body of Christ, one of the opportunities to serve them in the name of Christ. People in need must receive help from loving people who know how to care for them.

From HighBeam Research

Title: Trapped by transit trouble Pockets of poverty often are far from bus, train stops.(Series: DuPage's Poverty Crisis: A Special Report)(News)

Date: 8/2/2005; Publication: Daily Herald (Arlington Heights, IL); Author: Pyke, Marni

Byline: Marni Pyke Daily Herald Staff Writer

Norm Arnold considers himself lucky to be within walking distance of a grocery store.

That's because the Villa Park resident says he can't rely on public transit for his basic needs.

Arnold, who struggles with health problems, spent some months without a car a year ago when money was tight.

Bus service was so scarce, his wife ended up working from home and the couple walked everywhere until they scraped together enough money to buy a used car.

"Pace buses are few and far between," Arnold said. "It's a mess. It takes you half a day to figure out the schedule."

As executive director of the People's Resource Center in Wheaton, Mary Ellen Durbin can recount numerous horror stories about the travails of people without cars in the suburbs.

One client walked from Glen Ellyn to Addison every day to keep a job. Another trudged from north Villa Park to Downers Grove regularly.

"The transportation system is set up for commuters," Durbin said.

Poverty experts note many low-income pockets in DuPage are on the periphery of towns, far from train stations and bus routes, which isolates those in poverty further. "It's not so much a lack of compassion but a lack of planning," Durbin said.

In West Chicago, for example, where 9.3 percent of the population in 2000 was below the poverty line, there's no Pace service at all.

And transit gets even worse after rush hour. While Pace operates 65 routes during peak periods, that drops at other times.

Pace officials acknowledge they could do better.

"We're very aware we need to redesign our services," agency spokesman Judi Kulm said.

Funding cuts caused PACE to pull back on some routes, but they're working on correcting that, starting with improved service in the Naperville-Aurora area.

"We need to change to meet the demographics," Kulm said.

The DuPage County Mayors and Managers Conference also acknowledges the situation is dire.

"If you live in Naperville and work in Oak Brook or live in Bensenville and work in Downers Grove, there's no way to make that trip now," said Robert Dean, a project manager with the conference.

Dean is the architect behind the DuPage Area Transit Plan 2020, a $38 million proposal that aims to make life without a car a reality.

The proposal calls for high-speed buses to link up key spots like O'Hare International Airport, Woodfield Mall, Oak Brook and Naperville/Aurora.

Secondly, the plan seeks connector bus routes along major arterial roads, such as Lake Street, North Avenue, Roosevelt Road, Ogden Avenue, 75th Street and Army Trail Road.

The last component involves community circulators - small vans operating in neighborhoods.

All three services would operate at a greater frequency and for longer hours than currently available.

The price tag for the revamped system isn't cheap, but it's expected to boost bus riders from 2.6 million to 7.8 million.

Dean is working with Pace and relying on federal and state grants to pay for start-up costs for the system. He recently obtained funding for a bus that will regularly travel between College of DuPage and the Wheaton and Naperville train stations.

But more funding will have to be found for the plan, which will take years to complete.

In the meantime, those without cars will have to subsist on an inadequate system that Dean describes as "only for people with no other choice."

This document provided by HighBeam Research at http://www.highbeam.com

A Great Example of How To Make An Impact!

2006-03-03T20:08:00.000-08:00

The following article is a great example of how a local church ministry can impact it's community.

"Church Presents Game Plan For Christian Growth" - Date: 8/14/2005; Publication: The Tampa Tribune; Author: VICKIE BECK

The Tampa Tribune - 08-14-2005

Church Presents Game Plan For Christian Growth
Byline: VICKIE BECK
Edition: FINAL Section: PINELLAS Sunday - August 14, 2005
Section PINELLAS

Church Presents Game Plan For Christian Growth WEB SITE DESCRIBES LIFE'S FOUR BASES By VICKIE BECK Tribune correspondent

PINELLAS PARK -- If life is a baseball game, home plate must be heaven. And, on its Web site, Pinellas Park Wesleyan Church has a "game plan" to get people there. Reaching each of the game's four bases involves several steps in Christian growth, including different types of study, consistent church attendance and involvement in both ministry efforts and community outreach. The church's sporting approach to a serious spiritual life is just one of many efforts to involve people in the work of the church. Pinellas Park Wesleyan offers something for every age group, including a women's program with study groups, retreats and luncheons; children's, teens' and senior citizens' programs; and a motorcycle ministry that provides opportunities for fellowship. In addition to offering activities and opportunities for personal religious growth for its more than 400 members, the church maintains several efforts to care for the larger community, including a bicycle ministry that provides bikes to people who are homeless, and a food pantry. The music department also produces five presentations each year, which attract many people from all over the Tampa Bay area. While Pinellas Park Wesleyan has been a strong presence in the community for many years, Pastor David Terhune, who arrived about three years ago, has increased the church's efforts to reach out. "I believe that what I brought to this church was my strong gift of evangelism and a heart for helping and caring for people," Terhune said. "I believe that the congregation is moving steadily toward more and more outreach into our community." Pinellas Park Wesleyan's services are blended, with both contemporary songs and hymns. The sermons are meant to be "relevant to today's times and speak directly to the heart," Terhune said.

PINELLAS PARK WESLEYAN CHURCH
WHERE: 4400 70th Ave. N., Pinellas Park
SERVICES: 10:15 a.m. Sundays
CALL: (727) 526-3674

Copyright (c) 2005, The Tampa Tribune and may not be republished without permission.

E-mail library@tampatrib.com

CHARTCopyright (c) 2005 - The Tampa Tribune.
All rights reserved.

This document provided by HighBeam Research at http://www.highbeam.com

24

2006-02-26T18:38:00.000-08:00

Okay, I admit it. I am really into the TV series "24." It is a series that I have kept up on for five seasons now. I am impressed with the way new tv series are constructed these days. Every episode of TV series are connected to a larger story-line. Each episode builds upon the overall theme. Often this series follows some mystery yet to be discovered or a mission being completed.

The series, 24 is about a special branch of the government. It is an elite Counter Terrorist Unit that works to complete a mission and protect citizens of the United States. It is a pretty intense series. One agent in particular, Jack bower, is the series star. He is the hero that usually comes against major enemies and problems to save the day in the nick of time. He works to defend and protect the security of each American.

I don't recommend that you get hooked on the series as I have but there are some very interesting thoughts I have following nearly every episode. I am always impressed with the courage, strength and smarts this guy demonstrates. While I don't approve of every tactic Jack employs I have to say that I am impressed with his results.

One of the things that Jack that really impresses me is the level of passion he exhibits. Jack is intense and determined! His mission is real and the show demonstrates him at work in real time. Each episode is one hour in the real time. Jack doesn't rest, he doesn't eat and he doesn't even "chit-chat." He is determined, focused and very emotional. His passion is sure and his focus is clear.

The second thing I am impressed with is Jack's determination to accomplish his mission no matter what. He only has 24 hours to complete his work, each episode is one hour in real time. So, to say the least, the show is wildly intense and Jack is usually stressed out because he is trying to complete the mission with a time variable that applies incredible pressure.

I wonder, am I that intentional when it comes to my faith? Am I that concerned about the need to accomplish my mission? Perhaps I may not be that intense because my mission doesn't seem to be that critical. Maybe I don't feel the impact of saving the world from chemical bombs and terrorist. Maybe I don't see the need as clearly focused as Jack.

But, what I do does make an impact in the lives of others. Perhaps I need consider that my mission is even more important than Jack's. I have to realize that what I do from day-to-day has eternal ramifications. Demonstrating love in the name of Christ is a worthy cause, indeed!

I may not have the pressure of 24 hours but I have the mandate of serving the "lease among us" in the name of Christ. And so do you! Let's get to work because our mission is a worthy one. After all, our work comes as orders from our great Chief and Commander, Jesus Christ.

dee-ak-on-ee'-ah: the measure of church success

2006-02-24T08:41:00.000-08:00

Diakonia is the greek word for minister. It is a noun. It is a term that seems to have been lost in Corporate America...where success is based on the devaluing of what is sacred and the defacing of those in need. Yes, I said it. I know that you have often thought it. You have read the news. Another company bases its decision to lay off hundreds on the bottom line - profits. Hmmm? Success is based only on profit sharing! For Corporate America, it is an easy decision. All you have to do is devalue individuals and look the other way. After life, if it doesn't look good, feel good or make me happy, we avoid it!

Now there are certainly extremes and many companies have to make tough decisions in order to stay in business. Where I object is when the CEO bases their decision on only profit sharing and we reward CEOs who lay off hundreds of hard-working people by giving them a bonus. They saved the company! Or did they? They may have saved the bottom line but sold have they sold the soul of the company or even their own?

I am not opposed that a company make money. I think that this acceptable. But how much profit is enough!

Well, I can't change American greed but I can certainly speak to the church. After eighteen years of service to the Church, I wonder, has the corporate church made similar choices. Saving the bottom line grief church leaders ease this tension through campaigns that raise dollars but not efforts in prayer. They raise significant building projects without raising the passion for ministry!

Yet, the scripture seems to hold our "feet to the fire." Mark 10:43 says, (the works of Christ) "Greatest among you must be the servant." This is diakonia. Jesus speaks of himself; "For the son of man did not come to be served. But to serve and give His life as a ransom for many." this is diakonia.

Diakonia is the transforming measure of church success! It is not about success in numbers, while I think that people are drawn to it! It is not financial gain, yet I think that God will resource the church quite reasonably! It is not saving the bottom line as Corporate America defines. It is being the servant, attendant, domestic care-giver, minister to the poor and sick.

Not sure? Look read Isaiah 61:1 and Matthew 25 for starters. Jesus lived his life and was the diakonia - the great shepherd. I am not suggesting that the minister have a martyr complex but I am suggesting that the minister have a heart of compassion for those who are hurting, in crisis, and looking for something genuine and authentically consistent with the Bible. If we preach it we out to live it!

St Augustine once wrote:

"This is what love looks like: it has hands to help others; it has feet to hasten to the sick and needy; it has eyes to see suffering and want; and it has ears to hear the sighs and sorrows of men, women and children."

I like that! It is time for the body of Christ to be who were are called to be.

Let me suggest a little more reading:
"The Church of irresistible Influence" - Lewis, Zondervan Publishing

Bread of Life

2006-02-23T14:37:00.000-08:00

When Jesus described Himself as the bread of life he was helping His disciples understand that all their provision is found in Him. I find it very relevant that the author of life and God of the universe would describe His essence in terms that are universally understood. By saying he was the Bread of Life there would be no doubt what He meant. Centuries later the meaning is as real as it was then. Life needs food to survive!

I just finished a great sandwich from my favorite coffee shop. You guessed it, Panera Bread. As I nibbled away on my meal, I reflected upon the hunger I felt and the satisfaction of being filled. My hunger was real and so was my satisfaction! I gained an immediate energy boost and my brain began to think wildly. All this because I had something to eat.

In our world there are many who do not have the luxury of a simple loaf of bread yet I am surrounded by plenty. It makes me feel guilty, of course. But it also makes me truly thankful for the blessings and the privileges I take for granted.

Today I reflect upon the resources I have in abundance. I can honestly say that I have an abundance! While I recognize my abundance in good things I also approach the Lent season with a keen awareness that I must be willing to do without too! And in these times also be grateful to God!

Love is not just enjoying the abundance of plenty. Love is also sacrificial. I must be willing to share what I have with those in need as well as be willing to do without for the sake of Christ!

Help me, Lord to enter Lent with a willing heart. Willing to give away what I do not own anyways. Help me to be willing to sacrifice personal comfort for the sake of others. Help me to not complain when I seem to have little!

For as much as we do unto the least of those in need, we do unto our Lord, Jesus Christ. Perhaps by giving away what we can not keep we get what we can not live without! Thank you, Jesus for the reminder!

New Links Added to LOVE

2006-02-19T16:33:00.000-08:00

I haven't been adding much to my blog because I have been busy adding to my love web site. Check out the new pastor's section at www.love-cc.org

IMAGINE, ON EARTH AS IT IS IN HEAVEN!

2006-02-09T20:15:00.000-08:00

In Matthew 6 Jesus taught His disciple to pray. " Our Father who art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." There is nothing that stirs my imagination more that the phrase, on earth as it is in heaven; especially when I consider the fact that Jesus instructed His disciples on what to pray and how.

I wonder, what is heaven like? I imagine it is a place where no child is fatherless, no one is hungry, no one suffers. Could Jesus really have meant that we should pray His Will here on earth? What if he did?

I imagine that He may have intended for His followers to have been included in bringing about His Will! If He did, what role would we play in this? Perhaps through our faith, we can make a difference? Through our demonstration of LOVE we can participate in His Will on earth.

Imagine, on earth as it is in heaven. LOVE works to mobilize the body of Christ around the needs of the poor. Could it be that God would intend through prayer to accomplish His Will?

What are your ideas?

One More Borrowed BLOG on Poverty

2006-02-07T07:17:00.000-08:00

I know, twice in one week. I have found another very interesting discussion blog dealing with the subject of poverty. Your comments are appreciated! (Bishop Carder, no relation to me, provides this blog article.)

http://www.wesleyblog.com/helping_the_poor/

Read the article and come back to make a comment on my blog.

Posted: Rick Carder

2006-02-07T06:23:00.000-08:00

Today I report using a written article from John Armstrong ( www.johnharmstrong.com )

January 28, 2006
How Should We Respond to Growing Income Inequality?

A national report, issued on Thursday (January 26), shows that the gap between the nation’s top wage earners and lower- and middle-income families is growing over the past two plus decades. This gap began to grow in the 1980s (slowed from 1996-2002) and continues to increase off and on since. Liberals and conservatives view the gap very differently. These difference allow us to think about social and economic policy seriously.
Consider, for point of reference, that the study shows that the richest 20 percent of families had average incomes 6.8 times as large as the poorest 20 percent in the early 2000s, up from 5.4 times in the early 1980s. And the highest incomes in the early 2000s were 2.5 times as large as the middle 20 percent, up from 2 times twenty years ago. Average incomes for the richest people were up 51% overall and only 21.5% for middle income families. Average incomes for the poor rose by 20.5% during the same period!

So, what are we to make of this data? Ah, there’s the problem. Liberal economists see a growing tragedy.
Conservatives see it otherwise. The Chicago Tribune understood it starkly and thus the headlines read: “Rich, Poor Income Gap Widens.” Conservative policy analyst Rea Hederman Jr, at the Heritage Foundation, noted that, “Even people at the bottom quintile are better off than they were at the start of the period.” So, is the glass half-empty or half-full?

Well, the answer depends on a host of other questions and on how these all relate to economics and social welfare. Liberal thinkers believe the widening gap between the rich and the poor is bad. Consistent with the class conscious emphasis that such inequities create liberals see this very simply, it is a justice issue. It is, very simply, “Not right." Whatever it takes to adjust things so that “fairness” is brought into the equation again thus becomes the goal for liberal policy makers. Conservatives, on the other hand, favor the free market and the effects such a market creates for all, both rich and poor. They insist that these cycles happen and thus no truly free market system, in other words one that is uncontrolled by the government tinkering with it too much, can or should be adjusted to shrink income gaps. In fact, conservatives argue, the more business succeeds, and the market prospers the wealthiest among us, the better it will be for everyone who wants to benefit from the general prosperity created. The evidence of the recent survey can be read so as to support this very conclusion.

As a Christian I do not believe the resolution to this question is clear cut, at least in every instance. I also do not believe that we have a mandate to narrow the income gap based upon Old Testament prophetic texts, a common mistake made by the Christian left. The church clearly has a mandate to care for its own and to do good for neighbors. But these commandments do not dictate public and economic policy. They do not, in other words, support soft socialism. This is where the confusion comes when we apply biblical texts to modern governments and their economic decisions.

What contributes to income inequality does interest me great deal. Liberals argue that the primary culprit is obvious. The rich benefit from the free market and the poor suffer. But is this simplistic nostrum really true? This recent study suggests a number of contributing factors that ought to be considered in this debate. For example, the biggest contributor to income inequality is the erosion of wages for workers without college degrees, the report stated. But even college educated workers have recently lost ground, partly because of job erosion due to globalization. Other forces driving inequality are periods of relatively high unemployment, the general shift from manufacturing jobs (witness the problems at GM and Ford this week) to service related jobs, the loss of real impact by labor unions and the decline in the importance of the minimum wage. Liberal analysts suggest answers that you would expect---increase the minimum wage, strengthen social support for working families and make unemployment insurance more widely available. The Heritage Foundation, a conservative think tank, suggests that investments in education are the best first step; i.e., get better skills and better education.

Even more important, at least to my mind, is the impact of demographic trends on this income gap, trends that liberals rarely discuss. These trends include the rise of single-parent families and the part this contributes to both poverty and the decrease in disposable income. The issues here, as I noted above, are not simplistic. The solutions are not either. I resist large scale tinkering with the economy precisely because I am convinced it takes away real, and personal, freedom. This creates a far deeper problem for the whole society in the long run as I noted in my positive references to Ronald Reagan last week. I also believe that we fail the poorest among us if we do not have a real national conversation about how to solve the myriad of problems created by the destruction of the family. Family breakdown, both morally and spiritually, will be the undoing of our social fabric. I still believe revival, true Christ-centered revival, is the first step toward such real change. Liberal social theorists see this as “pie in the sky” religiosity but history abounds with evidence that such revival has time and again created huge social and economic change within a society.

The goal is not to shrink the income gap by new governmental interferences in the economy. This tends to be driven by an “economy lite” version of socialism. The goal is to raise every boat by a growing a healthy economy that works for the benefit of all. And we must encourage real charity in every way possible. At the same time we must provide the kind of social network that truly cares for the poor and offers positive help to them that is not demeaning. This is why I prefer the Christian approaches, influenced by both Catholic and Reformed (Kuyperian) social theory, that are offered by serious thinking people like those who teach and write for the Acton Institute.

If you are a Christian economist, or thoughtful businessman, you can start by helping ordinary members of our churches understand how this works and what they can really do about the issue of poverty in America. Fresh calls for governmental solutions are not the only alternative. I do not think they are even the best alternative.

{end article}

John raises several key discussion points about poverty. I challenge the church to become a participant in helping families who have needs. If there is one area that the church can agree upon it is what Jesus said; "For as much as you do unto the least of these...you have done unto me." Jesus offered a compassionate response to the needs of people. So ought we!
-Rick Carder

Is the church getting the job done?

2006-02-05T18:21:00.000-08:00

Is the church getting the job done? You judge.

FROM: “WHAT YOU MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT THE U.S.A.” From: "Alice & Eddie Smith - U.S. PRAYER CENTER" <usprayercenter@cs.com>

-The U.S. is the third largest unchurched nation in

-North America is the only continent where Christianity isn't growing.

-Seven out of 10 people in North America do not know Christ.

-The United States is now the 13th largest receptor of Christian missionaries in the world.

-More than 70% of all churches in the U.S. are plateaued or declining.

-Half of all churches last year did not add one new member through conversion growth.

-While the U.S. population grew by 11.4% over the last 10 years, church growth declined by 9.5%.

-The U.S. Census Bureau projects that 47% of the U.S. population will be non Anglo-American by 2050.

-4.1 million Muslims live in the U.S.

-2.5 million Buddhists live in the U.S.

-About a quarter million Sikhs live in America, with 100,000 living on the east coast. Other areas with high numbers of Sikhs are Chicago, Detroit, and Austin, Texas.

(Source: North American Mission Board Planting Team and Barna Update, 2003)

U.S. PRAYER CENTER 7710-T Cherry Park Dr, Ste 224 Houston TX 77095

NOW, LET’S GET BUSY SHARING LOVE WITH A HURTING WORLD!

- Rick

Serving Re-Entry Needs

2006-02-05T17:11:00.000-08:00

Rev. Rick Carder

from: RECIDIVISM AND PRISONER RE-ENTRY PROGRAMS:JOSEPH WILLIAMS

source: Congressional Testimony, February 2, 2005.

via: HighBeam™ Research

Serving the needs of the poor is broader than just providing emergency funding. In fact, many are surprised to learn that many who are poor are those coming out of prison. The needs confronting those entering re-entry programs include housing, education, employment and many other similar needs as those who are living in poverty and are of low-income working families. Crime does impact poverty!

People from faith-based organization can and should develop an involvement with those coming out of jails and prisons. Services and voluntarism should provide assistance for those in need that are of low-income and entering into re-entry programs.

The Church: Making An Impact

2006-02-02T06:39:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine was often quoted as saying; “You impress people from a distance, you impact them up close.” This statement has been a part of my ministry philosophy for nearly twenty years. Churches today are charged with the task of making disciples that truly make a difference in the lives of people. While much of the ministry is people oriented many leaders simply perform ministry as a duty and task. Some leaders leave an impression upon people but the ministry is distant and too often indifferent to individuals. The Challenge of this article is to look at ways a church can disciple people that make an impact on people.

Making an impression isn’t hard to do. All a church has to do is develop a program that meets the interests of people through forms of entertainment. For example, a church can perform a great musical. Many show up and enjoy the program. They leave the performance impressed with the talent and ability of people. However, they may have not been impacted. Often churches fail to do follow up after a musical. Gathering a crowd is celebrated by churches! But were they impacted? Sure the performance was good and may have brought about a tear and heart-felt response. But, is this the impact churches really want to make? Some churches may even record decisions that were made and indicated on a response card. Did the church follow up with this decision? Did they place a personal phone call or home visit to discuss this decision?

What if a church could develop a discipleship ministry that focused its efforts on making an impact upon the lives of people? What would this look like? Making an impact requires something that merely making a positive impression. It requires a personal contact and involves a personal interaction with someone. This is something that churches often miss by simply gathering a crowd.

What is my point? In ministry to people in crisis or families who are needy a key to transformation requires a personal connection. This is a relational impact that changes a person’s outlook on life and potentially that way they view faith and religion. Simply impressing a person is superficial. Often people say things like, “They were nice.” Or “They dressed well.” But what if people responded by saying, “That person really cares about me”

IN THE MINISTRY OF LOVE TO THOSE IN CRISIS people are looking for something genuine and authentic. This should be the hallmark of compassionate ministries. People should be impacted by our ministry, not just impressed with its quality or organization or performance-based outcomes. While making an impact should involve excellence it should never settle for “good impressions” that in the long run do not change lives.

Pastors and ministry leaders can not do this alone. They need to develop an army of people willing to be disciples that reach people through personal means. If a church is to make a larger difference than its army of followers should also be larger. It starts with the leader and those willing to become disciples and serve in the name of Christ should be recruited and trained.

Tell me what you think about this article. For more ideas on how to make an impact on people go to http://www.compassdriven.com/ or http://www.love-cc.org/ . Let me know what your church is doing to make an impact on people.

What If?

2006-02-01T06:38:00.000-08:00

Last night I attended a meeting of pastors from several churches. Their discussion was centered on the needs of the poor. It was exciting to hear the stories and ideas on how to help the homeless and low-income populations.

What impressed me most about their discussion was the empathy and compassion that pastors and church leaders had for the poor. Being there and hearing these pastors share caused me to reflect on the question of "What If?"

What if churches come together to demonstrate God's love in practical ways?

What if pastors captured a vision for serving the poor in our communities?

What if our community developed a heart for the hurts and pains of the poor and hurting?

What if people in our churches begin to love and demonstrate compassion to people in need?

At this meeting of pastors my question began to be answered. As pastors and church leaders come together to support the needy and demonstrate LOVE in the name of Christ, I believe that a by-product will be a delivery of HOPE. For those in our communities that are needy, the most precious gift the church can offer is a hope in the name of Christ. A hope that has an eternal message A hope that produces faith A hope that never disappoints.

For this group of pastors the vision of "What If?" can become a reality.

Now thats what Im talking about!

2006-01-30T20:06:00.000-08:00

The following is an article reported in the Kansas City Star of one church the provided a special gift to a needy family in their church. Take a look at the article:

Church's charity goes to 'Xtreme'.

Byline: Deann Smith, The Kansas City Star, Mo.
Dec. 19--Sitting among the congregation of BreakPointe Community Church on Sunday, 12-year-old Hannah Wastland knew her father would talk about her difficult journey to get her new liver in October.
Hannah's father, John Wastland, is pastor of another Kansas church, Osawatomie Wesleyan. On Sunday, he stood before the BreakPointe congregation, giving a testimonial at the 8:30 a.m. service. Hannah thought that the piles of presents on the stage of the Overland Park church were for a Christmas play.
When two "ang-elves," complete with white robes and Christmas caps, pulled a toy wagon toward her, Hannah giggled. Then her expression turned to one of stunned amazement when the Rev. Tom Kinnan explained that the wagon was filled with presents -- including a $500 gift card -- for Hannah and her family.
"I'm so thankful," Hannah whispered afterward.
Giving thanks and celebrating the true spirit of Christmas were the inspirations behind BreakPointe's "Xtreme Christmas," with about $25,000 worth of gifts -- including clothes, toys, a used car and a college scholarship -- given to 22 families and individuals during two services Sunday.
The initial impetus for "Xtreme Christmas" was Oprah Winfrey's talk show and ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition."
"We were inspired by Oprah when she gave away 276 cars," Kinnan, BreakPointe's senior pastor, told the congregation at the 8:30 service.
Thus, BreakPointe Charities was born in 2004, and "Xtreme Christmas" debuted last December. In two years, the charity has raised money or received corporate support for gifts valued in the tens of thousands of dollars, including vehicles, a refurbished motor home and groceries.
Fewer than half of the families that received gifts Sunday were members of the church at 10001 W. 88th St. Kinnan said that the church believes it is vital to support the entire community and not just its congregation.
Some of the recipients either knew or suspected that they would receive gifts. Others had no clue.
Some of the requests were poignant in their humility. A mother of six requested toilet paper and didn't ask for any toys for her children. She got the toilet paper, plus groceries. And each child got at least one gaily wrapped toy.
Eric Day of Olathe, who had his two toddlers in tow, had seen other families receive their wrapped presents. So he knew what was coming when Kinnan called him to the stage and told the story of his wife's struggles against liposarcoma, a cancer that develops from fat cells, and of debilitating treatments at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Texas.
Day was overcome when Kinnan announced that the church would pay his January and February mortgage bills, totaling $2,400.
"We knew God would help us out," he said.
------------
To reach DeAnn Smith, call (816) 234-4412 or send e-mail to dsmith@kcstar.com.
Copyright (c) 2005, The Kansas City Star, Mo.
Distributed by Knight Ridder/Tribune Business News.
For information on republishing this content, contact us at (800) 661-2511 (U.S.), (213) 237-4914 (worldwide), fax (213) 237-6515, or e-mail reprints@krtinfo.com.
COPYRIGHT 2005 The Kansas City Star

Can You Help Me?

2006-01-25T06:42:00.000-08:00

Everyday we receive calls from people looking for emergency financial assistance. Low-incomes families in DuPage County make up over 15% of the community according to Census Data provided by the Federal Government. Nationally there is an average of 11-13% of the population that does not earn enough to break the cycle of poverty. Many are surprised to learn that there are 50,000 low-income people living and working in DuPage County. (This according to The Federation – see: http://www.love-cc.org/ )

Our volunteers work tirelessly to counsel those who call about community services and file the necessary paperwork that provides assistance through a network of caring churches and community organizations. Each month we receive over 400 calls from people. “Can you help me?” is a common question we receive. Their stories vary however. Some call because they lost their job. Others call because they had their hours reduced and it has placed financial hardships before them. There are others who call because a sickness in the family prevented them from working and there are no paid sick days.

These people are in crisis! Their needs outweigh their ability to meet them. Their worries and anxieties overwhelm their ability to manage. Their hurts and disappointments are apparent! Our Call-In Center volunteers bear the brunt of this. Those in crisis will get express life’s disappointments. Our Call-In Center volunteers also share good news that lifts the spirits of those in crisis. A soft answer does turn away wrath.

The good news we share is financial and community networking that provides a need. But more than just a transaction of referrals and financial assistance is the message we deliver. That message is help in the name of Christ, hope that will carry them through tough times and the knowledge that God does care. Our messengers are the volunteers who talk with those in need and our network of churches that demonstrate a unifying body of believers, meeting the needs of low-income families.

Imagine for just a moment church working together and meeting real needs of people in crisis. One church providing used furniture, another church providing group services that manages resources for a family in need, another church providing clothing and another church providing food. What an exciting picture! LOVE is the bridge that meets real needs of people in crisis and works to network these resources appropriately for people frustrated with life and calling out, “Can you help me?”

Building Credibility

2006-01-22T07:48:00.001-08:00

Jesus told his followers that they were the “…light of the world.” He challenged them do good because others are watching. He told them that people “…may your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:13-16) The gospel is about delivering good news but credibility is the key in developing trust in relationships. If we are say we are of Christ then we must also be a reflection of that which He is!

Sharing love with those in need is one way we express authentic representation of the Christ we follow. In the book, “Going Public with the Gospel” by Lon Allison and Mark Anderson we are challenged to proclaim the gospel with authenticity.

The authors write:

The church was the primary influence in government, education, science, the arts, entertainment and almost every sphere of life, but over time this changed. The church slowly ceased being the influence in society and grew content with a separate culture of their own. (pg 32)

The implications for this are seen almost every day as people continue to migrate away from faith and religion to other places of involvement. Churches have seemingly lost their place of relevant influence. How can it get it back?

I believe that through compassionate ministries the church can recover and become a welcomed resource once again in society. We can do this by effectively sharing our resources with those who are in need. I have seen the welcome mat given to the church as we participate in providing compassionate ministries to needy people. The authors tell us that the world must be persuaded. “Today gospel speech will not stand on its own in convincing a lost world. It never has. Wesley, Moody, Graham or Booth – evangelist realize that demonstrating the gospel is critical. Ministries of compassion, development, and justice go hand-in-hand with proclamation.” (pg 122) The results of such a change in method will testify of the light Jesus referred to. It is through our witness of love in the lives of people that we can build trust in relationship so that our words will have meaning.

The challenge for churches to day is to change our motif of simply attendance and proclaimation evangelism only and become a welcoming and compassionate group of people that builds credibility and positive relationships. Many churches have become just places of social interaction like country clubs. While social connectedness is important to the life of the local church we must also mobilize our efforts and gifts and serve people in need. Jesus demonstrated that sharing love is pretty important if we are to become relevant to the needs of people. “…Jesus went around doing good…” (Acts 10:38) So should we. In this way “…they might see our good deeds and praise (our) Father…”

A Vision for a Love in Action

2006-01-21T12:58:00.000-08:00

A recent read of "The Church of Irresitable Influence" written by Rev. Robert Lewis reveals an incredible vision of how the Church can function. The vision of "being" the church of incredible impact in the lives of people is exciting. In the book, Lewis says, (on page 31) “Let me say this with as much of the humility birthed from our own difficult experiences as I can: If the church functions with any other design than that of a bridge, it dooms itself.” This concept of being a bridge to those in need and being a relevant source of help is a New Testament model as demonstrated in the book of Acts.

LOVE demonstrated before people will should testify of the life-changing encounter of Christ in us. Lewis speaks of the incarnational principle. That is, living our lives before people in such a way that Christ in us is made obvious.

In the purpose of the Church to disciple followers of Christ we can develop an aspect of "being" like Christ in all we do! Lewis says, “There is no greater investment in the future of the church than by identifying, encouraging, and providing training for young leaders in our midst. It’s something every church can do!” (p.179) In training young followers of Christ we cross the divisive arguement of postmodern and modern believer. Many young followers in the Church is looking for a faith that is real, experiencial and practical. By being a church that acts out its faith in the lives of people will create a church that people want to be a part of.

Join the journey - demonstrate a love that can relate to the needs of people!

In reading a commentary review of the book, Greg Gilbert offers the following quotes and summary.

“Let me say straight up: I do not believe in a social gospel that seeks to save the world through human compassion and good works. My trust is in Jesus Christ alone,” p.16. I am sure that is true, but there are statements in the book that subtly shift emphasis away from the preached gospel and toward social work and good deeds. Take, for example, this passage: “I love expository preaching and deeply admire those who do it well. But great preaching alone will not reach our world or magically transport unbelievers across the Great Chasm,” p.24. The word “alone,” I assume, means that Lewis understands the importance of preaching, and I am glad for that. But the tenor of the book is subtly to relegate preaching to second place behind social work. “Proclamation was more a matter of essence—in life and death—than it was an enunciation of words,” p.42. “Preaching is not the answer to today’s spiritual hunger,” p.47. “Don’t preach! Prove! Serve! Give! Love!” p.163.

Take time to read Robert Lewis' book and tell me what you think.

Is The Church Relevant? Hmm, Let's See!

2006-01-19T11:08:00.001-08:00

Recently reported by the Daily Herald: DuPage job losses break 50-year trend.(Business)
Daily Herald (Arlington Heights, IL); 11/17/2005; Kukec, Anna Marie

Among trends cited in the "The State of Working Illinois 2005" report are these:

- Racial disparities. Minority groups made up 27.9 percent of the workforce in 2004, almost double the 15.7 percent in 1980. However, African Americans and Hispanics still have higher unemployment rates than whites and Asians.

- Gender disparities. Women comprise less than a third of workers in well-paying industries, such as construction, manufacturing and transportation, but make up over three-quarter of the employees in lower paying fields such as education, health services, and leisure and hospitality.

- Poverty. In 2004, more than 12 percent of Illinoisans and nearly 20 percent of children under 18 years were below the poverty line. Nearly a quarter of Illinois workers earn a wage that puts them and their families below the poverty threshold, which is $19,311 for a family of four.

- Education gap. More than 70 percent of African Americans and 60 percent of Hispanics earn less than $50,000, compared to more than half of whites earning $75,000 or more. Low income and unemployment are more common among those with the least education. Hispanics are the least educated minority group, with 44 percent having less than a high school diploma.

- Unions. The average weekly earnings of union members in Illinois are nearly 20 percent higher than non-union workers. In 2005, unions comprised 17 percent of the Illinois labor force, a decline from 20.8 percent in 1990.

- Health insurance, pensions. Per capita health care costs have increased 107 percent since 1990, while about 60 percent of Illinois workers had health insurance coverage in 2004. Also, less than half of workers have access to an employer-provided pension plan.

(end of article)

Some are prone to wonder, is there a response from churches of DuPage County? Many ask, "WHAT CAN WE DO ABOUT IT? WHAT IS THE RESPONSE FROM THE CHURCH?" Well, let's see!

LOVE IN THE NAME OF CHRIST (LOVE CHRISTIAN CLEARINGHOUSE) provides an answer everyday to many in need. Our answer comes from compassionate volunteers networking together resources and services that share God's LOVE to people with needs.

Just this week several churches provided rent assistance to a single mother with three young children. Her efforts to maintain employment, keep her kids healthy and in school, manage home activities and keep gasoline in her car are overwhelming! LOVE came through with hope in the Name of Christ! The Church can provide a response!

Through the network of services, volunteers, and resources families that are in need can have their needs met through the responce of the body of Christ.

Can we do more? Hmm, let's see! Let me know what you can do and we will combine your gift of time, talent or resources with others. For more information on how to help: www.love-cc.org

What does love look like?

2006-01-18T08:58:00.000-08:00

A third grader from Franklin Elementary School was once given a project. The teachers instructions were clear, "Draw a picture of God." This project would help develop the creative art of students. The little third grader began right away while others simple chatted with peers and wondered with courious thought. When the assignment was turned the pictures were put on display. Many drew pictures of flowers that represented God as a creator. Some drew images of create colors and abstract art representing God as unique. But one drawing depicted an obvious broken down car along the road. It pictured a family standing nearby while a man was seen working on a flat tire. "Who is the man changing the tire?" the teacher asked. "It is God!" came the reply. "Yea!" he added, "Just last week our car got a flat tire. Mommy was crying and I prayed, 'God, can you help us?' And he came and fixed the car for free!"

Clearly a good samaritan came to their rescue in their time of need. But the impression left on the young third grader was that God cared enough to lend a helping hand. Perhaps today you are God's worker for someone in need. Your actions clearly convey LOVE in terms everyone can understand.

Matthew 22:37 -- "Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. 38 This is the first and great commandment. 39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself."

What is one thing that you can do today that demonstrated love to people in need?

LOVE IN JESUS NAME REPORT

2005-12-28T09:27:00.000-08:00

SERVING LOVE TO NEEDY FAMILIES OF EAST DUPAGE COUNTY

Love Christian Clearinghouse has been serving families for 20 years.  Our primary purpose is to transform lives and communities in the name of Christ.  The following is a brief overview of the past four years.

2002 through 2005 Statistical Report / Alpha Client Report

Total Cases: 14,202
Children Served: 13,996
(No Children in the home cases: 8,724)

These statistics represent individual cases served during this time.  We have provided services in community referrals, emergency funding support and church outreach consultation.

Outreach to hurting families is part of the Biblical mandate to love our neighbors as ourselves.  If your church is interested in serving low income families with the hope and love of Christ, please give us a call: 630-768-6242.

2005-12-20T23:06:00.000-08:00

CHRISTIAN LOVE - IN THE NAME OF CHRIST
This LOVE in Christ's Name blogger is designed for the purpose of sharing ideas and resources on how to best represent Christ's Love to those in need! This page will provide links, services and ideas on how to LOVE in Christ's Name.

Please feel free to submit ideas and resources.

SO WHAT?

2005-12-20T22:40:00.000-08:00

SO WHAT? Apathy is the hallmark of the complacent and contented self-sufficient. The needs of the suffering, poor and oppressed are screaming to be noticed but too often we turn away.

Ever notice how often the Bible makes reference to the poor and suffering? The word or reference to the poor appears no less than 4,000 times through out the Bible. Jesus speaks of the poor and suffering more than any other topic. Think about it. If Jesus is interested, so should we be also!

Familiar passages like Matthew 25 remind us of what Jesus said, "...for as we do unto the least of these, you have done unto me."

Take 5 minutes from your day to simply notice the needs of the poor. Don't know any? Try looking for them more intently. They are the single moms working part-time as waitresses. They are young and old. They work for companies that provide no insurance or time off benefits. The "working poor" are fast becoming the familiar and yet forgotten.

Too often, they are not living in the slums of the intercity. They are living in your neighborhood.

For more information about the working poor go to: www.love-cc.org