On this Memorial Day weekend I have chosen to remember those who fought so bravely with a WWII vintage Humble Oil add. I am thankful for those who gave the last full measure of devotion in the past and for those who are giving their all now. While one could question the validity of certain wars I would never question the loyalty and bravery of those who serve. I am thankful they are there serving against evil in our world.

Christ said we were to love our enemies and I don't know exactly how that works when you are a Christian who is at war. I know that evil is very present in the world and we have to do something about it. I will offer a prayer today for protection for those who are fighting for our country and for those who are considered our enemies that they will come to know the Prince of Peace.

I do believe this may be the best DVD I have purchased in a long time. From 1979 to 1981, Bob Dylan only sang songs that he wrote which reflected a Christian perspective and theology.

I don't know if he was "born again" or not. Many people still debate that fact. All I know is that the words that he wrote are incredibly meaningful and watching these great gospel singers interpret and cover these songs has been a moving and soul searching experience.

I offer you the lyrics of Dylan's song, What Can I Do For You?

"You have given everything to me. What can I do for You? You have given me eyes to see. What can I do for You? Pulled me out of bondage and You made me renewed inside, Filled up a hunger that had always been denied, Opened up a door no man can shut and You opened it up so wide And You've chosen me to be among the few. What can I do for You? You have laid down Your life for me. What can I do for You? You have explained every mystery. What can I do for You?Soon as a man is born, you know the sparks begin to fly, He gets wise in his own eyes and he's made to believe a lie. Who would deliver him from the death he's bound to die? Well, You've done it all and there's no more anyone can pretend to do. What can I do for You? You have given all there is to give. What can I do for You? You have given me life to live. How can I live for You?I know all about poison, I know all about fiery darts, I don't care how rough the road is, show me where it starts, Whatever pleases You, tell it to my heart. Well, I don't deserve it but I sure did make it through. What can I do for You?"

What a great question. It has been my prayer this week: Lord, what can I do for you?

As I mentioned before, there are changes coming to Newark Naz. The multi-site church concept appears to be more than a passing fad. It is a sensible answer to avoiding becoming a church that lives to see how many people they can pack into one building to hear a cast of "superstars" perform their weekly Sunday deal.

Multi-site allows more people to be involved in ministry at every level. More worship leaders and more hospitality teams and even the possible formation of a team of teachers. I long for the growth of people not just attendance. We will grow people when we get them involved in ministry. We will grow our children and our youth when they learn that there are no superstars only people that God will use when they surrender their strengths and weaknesses to Him.

I am writing this from the worship area at Seacost Church in Charleston S.C. The administrative leadership team at Newark Naz. (Brian and Tevis) has joined me for a couple of days of pursuing the "next" things for our church. There is no doubt that God has led us this far to prepare us for His next challenge. I only pray that He will give us wisdom and the courage to lead into the uncharted waters of where God seems to be going. He has a plan for our church that is becoming clearer than ever before. If you are reading this I hope you will pray for the Lord of the Harvest to raise up leaders who believe in the great commission of our Lord. Newark Naz. is moving forward. Take a breath and get ready. . .

I have been thinking all week about Martin Luther and his courage to take a stand in the face of complete opposition. I am sure he had no intention of starting a revolution or a reformation. With all the talk of revolution in the church today I find it very interesting that most spiritual "revolutions" happened without a lot of talking about it. When God wants to do something He will do it with us or in spite of us.

What is it that God is calling you to? What is your "Wittenberg" door? Don't be afraid or too cautious that you miss your opportunity to make a difference. The world needs the church to be the light of Christ. The consistent, loving, pure church of Christ.

Remember what Paul wrote to Titus:

11For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men. 12It teaches us to say "No" to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age, 13while we wait for the blessed hope—the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, 14who gave himself for us to redeem us from all wickedness and to purify for himself a people that are his very own, eager to do what is good.
15These, then, are the things you should teach. Encourage and rebuke with all authority. Do not let anyone despise you.