Say it with Flowers

Flowers Family Video

2008-12-11T21:45:00.000-08:00

Every year I edit a family video starting with the prior Christmas. This is the first year I'm going to add segments to youtube so family and friends abroad can see it too. Enjoy!

40 Day Revolution has an impact...

2008-10-29T09:11:00.001-07:00

Here is a letter sent to a local church I wanted to share with you all...

Pastors,

I understand that you are doing a 40 day revolution at your church and

our school is reaping the benefits from this act of service. Two

students in particular, Bree and Andrea, have given me

gifts and cards telling me that they are praying for me. I just wanted

to tell you that I appreciate what First Baptist Church is doing and the

support that they are giving to our school and community.

I will see you Sunday morning, October 12th with {family}.

Sincerely,

Mike

Middle School Principal

A Question...

2008-09-26T10:53:00.000-07:00

Dear Leighton Flowers,

My name is Sara, I am 22 years old, and I have been attending The Oaks church for a couple of months now. During the services, you always say that you are available if we have any questions, and I need to take you up on that offer. ^_^

One of my best friends is an athiest, and we have recently come to blows over religion. My friend is very intelligent, very logical, and a good arguer, but clear thinking and communicating is one of my weaknesses. To put it lightly, I did a horrible job of supporting my faith, and we both walked away very hurt and confused. I've seen that I don't know how to present my faith.

I am really having a hard time with what to do. There are lots of things I've been challenged with and am struggling with pertaining to Christianity. I don't doubt that God is, or anything like that, but I've realized that I've been a very ignorant Christian, professing beliefs that I could not back up, and I have been trying to understand what the true faith really is. I am at a complete loss. I have hurt my friend horribly because my attempts at explaining why I believe were so unclear and dreadful (they really were. they even confused me later). I don't have any skills in apologetics, and I don't know what to do.

I desperately need some direction and wisdom and instruction. Is there any wisdom you can share with me? Or is there anyone you can recommend I speak with? My friendship is on the line, I feel like an utter failure as a witness for Christ, and I would really appreciate some good, biblically based help right now.

I hope you don't mind me taking the liberty of e-mailing you. I didn't know where else to turn for truth and wisdom. I don't know if there is anything you can do or wisdom you can share, but I would even appreciate just your prayers. Thank you so much for your time and patience. ^_^

Most Sincerely,

Sara

Sara,

First, let me thank you for writing this letter and allowing me to post it here. It takes a lot to admit when we are in need of help and I think you are taking steps in the right direction.

Second, I appreciate the tone and attitude of your letter. In fact, I strongly encourage you to approach your atheistic friend in the same manner. There is nothing wrong with telling your friend that you are weak in certain areas in much the same manner you have done with me. I think she will respect you more than if you simply "blow up" or get an a endless debate with her about issues you are not prepared to discuss in depth.

Third, have you heard the old saying, "You win more flies with honey than with vinegar?" This is actually a biblical concept. Jesus told us to be kind to our "enemies" by giving them food when they are hungry and drink when they are thirsty. In doing so, the scripture teaches, it is "like heaping burning coals on their head." What does that mean? Simply put, that being kind will get you much further than being dogmatic, argumentative or even "right." I'm not saying that you have to agree with her views or in any way condone her sinful behavior. I'm saying that you should focus more attention on serving her and meeting her needs than on making sure she agrees with your views. As the saying goes, "People don't care what you think unless they really think that you care."

Forth, sometimes its better to simply talk about your story rather than focusing on confusing and endless ontological arguments about the existence of God. She can't argue with your experience. Saying something like, "I understand that you don't believe in God's existence, but I feel him in my life and he brings me comfort, direction and guidance...I can't explain that fully, but I just know He is with me and that's enough for me. I hope you can respect that even if you disagree with it. I love you and your my friend whether you believe in God or not." And then love her, period. Be there for her when she needs a friend. Be Christ in flesh to her and allow the Spirit to do the rest. Be patient and pray a lot!

Don't feel the need to disagree with her about things she says all the time. Let some things go. Pick your battles. Avoid politics and religion when possible so as to avoid needless arguments. Those heated debates only harden her heart from your influence in her life, they don't bring her closer to you or God. Love is much more effective...not fake, pretend love, but genuine love. Pray that God fills you with that love...it can only come from Him anyway...and He will!

I hope this helps Sara. I will be saying a prayer for you today and if their are others who have advice or suggestions please chime in...

Blessings!
Leighton

Another great letter about how Super Summer is affecting lives!

2008-09-19T12:01:00.000-07:00

Hey Leighton!
My name is Breanne Martin and I've been to Super Summer since my Red school year, I'll be in kahki this year! This past summer at session one I was able to share my testimony through the cardboard testimony skit. After that night, so many people came up to me telling me how much it spoke to them and I saw how God used me and my story to touch other people. For the first time, I saw the importance of my Testimony. Being able to share my story gave me a passion to encourage other people to share their story. Our personal stories are powerful.

Now to the point of my subject, "changing tides."
Global Missions has also been a big part of my life ever since I can remember. I've felt God calling me into missions since my 5th grade year. I've been to Spain 3 times with my youth group [First Baptist Port Neches, Adam Pardue] and went to the amazon in Peru this past summer. The financial cost of these trips are great and I wanted to find a way to help people seeking to go global.
After camp, I felt a burden placed on my heart to DO something to encourage people to share their story.
My best friend had the same burden laid on his heart and we co-created a non-profit organization called "Changing Tides".
[The way our lives change so quickly is compared to the way the tide changes.]

Through our profit we are raising money to help people with their financial needs in trips and also to buy clothing to bring with us to Ghana, Africa next summer for the children. We are also encourage people to submit their testimonies to us so that we can post them on our site for others to see.

We are just now touching base with the creation of this organization. We are still trying to perfect and make things pretty while trying to figure out computer programs and raise money to get started. We do have ideas, a foundation, and know where we are headed. We've started a myspace and going from there, hopefully we'll have a cause on facebook soon.
Our saying is "Share your story. Save a Life. Change the World."

I just wanted to let you know a little something of how super summer changed my life!!!

With Love,
Breanne Martin

Encouraging Letter for all our Super Summer Family to enjoy...

2008-09-15T09:36:00.000-07:00

Leighton and Staff,

My Super Summer kids as well as my entire youth group is getting ready for the 40 day revolution. We had a prayer walk in August before school started to begin then praying for God to open up venues to take control of our campus. Last Friday we had a Senior that decided to take her life by overdosing on canned air. As devestated and shocked as we were my kids and I saw God's crazy amazing plan begin unfolding. We believe that our revolution started last Friday. In the first part of the group study it talks about earning the right to be able to share Christ with people. They have to know you care-my kids are so stoked about this as an inlet to many hurting kids that are normally far off their radar. Yesterday we had a major pornography issue that came up and several students may be charged as adults. Our Father is stirring the campus us and is moving in such a mighty way we are so overjoyed. I wanted to share this with you because we are a small 2A school in East Texas that has only about 500 kids on our entire JH-HS campus but this small town is about to be completely shaken at the power of our Jesus. Our technical 40 days haven't started as you well know, but the gates are about to break at the hinges as God is unleashed on our campus and in our community.

I say all of this to say thank you for helping push this at SS. As a lifer my self, I have seen lots of great material but I know that it has revolutionized my life already just getting my kids ready for it. Thanks for your hard work of preparation and your hours of prayer that are helping shape and mold the youth of our churches today.

Amanda Galyean

"I became a Christian and all I got was this lousy t-shirt"

2008-08-26T08:28:00.001-07:00

Reading this book by Vince Antonucci and loving it! Few books make me laugh out loud but the people here at Starbucks must think I've had one too many cafe lattes this morning with my outbursts.

As a recovering church brat myself it is really refreshing to read the perspective of believers who come to faith much later in life. So far I've only read Vince's testimony and some of his perceptions of "Christianity" (mostly derived from Ned Flanders on The Simpsons). Despite our very different upbringing and life experiences it is amazing to see how I have come to many of the same conclusions about religion and the western world's "Christian" experience.

I absolutely loved the story of his first encounter with "the church." He writes, "Walking through the front door of that church building was like passing through a portal to a different world. So much was unfamiliar. For the first time I heard about "propitiation," "puppet ministry," and "potluck suppers." I stood for "fellowship," knelt for prayer, and sat on a hard wooden bench (which they called a "pew"). I saw more polyester in one morning than I had my entire life. I experience church snack time, which consisted of little pieces of cracker and small plastic shot glasses of grape juice. A man explained that we would be singing hymns 11, 52, 17, and 63. I almost yelled out, 'Bingo!'"

HA! You know, I think it would do all Christian's well to try to put themselves in the shoes of those who visit our church services. Sometimes I think they must think we are all nuts!

Vince continues to drive home the major theme of his book, "But it's now seventeen years later. I've gotten married. I have two kids. I've gained a few pounds. And I've gone from having never walked into a church to having seventeen years worth of Sundays in church buildings. And with all that experience (not to mention a few extra pounds) under my belt, I can tell you that there is something very familiar about most of the Christians I've met. Unfortunately, it's not that they remind me of the people who populate the pages of Scripture. Instead, they remind me of a little girl named Emily. Little Emily looks cute in her souvenir shirt that proclaims, 'My parents went to Florida and all I got was this lousy T-shirt.' But there's something sad about it too. She missed the journey. She didn't get to take part in the adventure. While others broke out of their dull routine, Emily missed the excitement of doing something different. She didn't get to play in the waves or hug Mickey. She didn't get to experience the joy...As I've gone to church and met Christians and lived as one myself, I've realized something. We are Emily. When I read about the lives of the first Christians in the pages of the New Testament I see people who actually went 'on vacation to Florida,' who truly experienced the ups and downs of the trip. But when I look around at Christians today, I see people who just wear a T-shirt for an adventure they've missed out on. We're missing the journey. We're stuck in the same dull routine. We're missing out on the joy and fear and laughter and doubt and mystery and confusion of following Jesus, of taking great risks for God, of praying dangerous prayers, even of being spiritually attacked...Is this all there is?"

I'm looking forward to reading more...

"Extra-Biblical" Communication with God

2008-08-08T12:05:00.000-07:00

I’ve had several questions regarding my posts about hearing God’s voice that I want to take some time to respond to. Here is the most recent sent to me through facebook.

“I am in Seminary and am currently studying how people hear God or listen to God. I read your blog on this issue and agreed with much of what you said. You are a gifted communicator. In my studying I came across another blog talking about a similar topic and was wondering what you thought. The link is:

http://www.desiringgod.org/ResourceLibrary/TasteAndSee/ByDate/2007/2021_The_Morning_IHeard_the_Voice_of_God/

In this article Piper talks about the danger of the extra-biblical revelation of God and I am still trying to get my head around all of this. If possible would you mind letting me know what you think about what he is saying. I would really appreciate it.”

This is a great question and I really enjoyed reading Piper’s article and the article he comments on. Differing perspectives on this subject are really interesting to me. I have much respect for John Piper and his warnings but I think I would have to ask him some specific questions to fully understand his view on this topic. For example, I would like to know if Piper believes that God can and does speak “outside” of scripture or “extra-biblically” (i.e. “The money is not yours” as referenced to in his article…by the way, when I say “outside” of scripture I don’t mean “contradictory to scripture”…though that would be an interesting discussion in itself when you consider that Abraham was told by God to murder his own son while scripture clearly teaches us not to murder…but that is for a another much more controversial discussion)

Piper seems to affirm the possibility of the professor’s “extra-biblical” conversation when he says, “What makes me sad about the article is not that it isn’t true or didn’t happen,” but then he goes on to rebuke the article as giving “the impression that extra-biblical communication with God is surpassingly wonderful and faith-deepening. All the while… communication of the living God…through the Bible everyday is passed over in silence.”

Piper also seems to give the Professor the benefit of the doubt writing, “I am sure this professor of theology did not mean it this way, but what he actually said was, ‘For years I’ve taught that God still speaks, but I couldn’t testify to it personally.’ Surely he does not mean what he seems to imply—that only when one hears an extra-biblical voice like, “The money is not yours,” can you testify personally that God still speaks. Surely he does not mean to belittle the voice of God in the Bible which speaks this very day with power and truth and wisdom and glory and joy and hope and wonder and helpfulness ten thousand times more decisively than anything we can hear outside the Bible.”

While I agree with Piper’s rebuke of the implication that God’s revelation through scripture is somehow less than extra-biblical revelations I think he might be missing the point of the professor’s comments. It seems to me that the professor is merely expressing the unique joy and satisfaction of hearing God’s voice addressing him personally and specific to his circumstance. For example, it is great to know that we are loved by God because we read it in John 3:16, but isn’t it a sweet experience to hear His voice in our soul tell us personally that he loves us?

Now, must those two experiences; (1) the reading of the words “God so loves the world” and (2) personally hearing the Spirit’s voice within us say, “I love you,” be mutually exclusive and unrelated? Of course not! I can read John 3:16, or some other passage about God’s love, and it can be a catalyst by which I hear the Spirit’s inward voice expressing his love for me personally. That personal voice from the Spirit is sweet and wonderful as compared to merely reading words on a page. It seems to me that Piper is affirming that sweet pleasure in the first half of his article, which I greatly enjoyed reading.

Piper goes on to say, “I grieve at what is being communicated here. The great need of our time is for people to experience the living reality of God by hearing his word personally and transformingly in Scripture. Something is incredibly wrong when the words we hear outside Scripture are more powerful and more affecting to us than the inspired word of God.”

Again, I don’t disagree with Piper’s warning here, but what Piper doesn’t address in this article is the very unique and specific circumstances of life that scripture doesn’t necessarily address. The professors situation is a great example of God speaking and working with his child in a specific time and place. Does God only address us through the pages of scripture even in such circumstances?

When tempted to sin scripture can make our decisions very clear cut, but when you are faced with a choice to go to this town or that town…buy this thing or that thing…give to this ministry or that ministry what passage and verse do you turn to? If you are ONLY listening through the pages of scripture could you miss the Spirit’s prompting about a very specific matter in your life?

Jesus said to his disciples, "I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. He will bring glory to me by taking from what is mine and making it known to you. All that belongs to the Father is mine. That is why I said the Spirit will take from what is mine and make it known to you.” (Jn. 16:12-15)

Now, some might argue that only the appointed disciples had the privileges of this personal councilor and guide to truth, but I believe we all have this Spirit residing within us to teach us “much more” than even what the incarnate Word taught while here on earth. It is the Spirit who brings the scripture’s alive in our hearts, but I believe God is big enough to speak to us even when our bibles are closed. As Piper warns, the scripture revelation should never take a back seat, but I don’t believe we should limit Him to those means either. {which, as I said, I don't necessarily believe Piper was doing}

OBJECTION: But what about the immature believers that will start to say, “God told me to do this or that…” and it’s some off the wall unbiblical thing they are teaching? Doesn’t that prove that “extra-biblical” communication is dangerous and should be discouraged?

ANSWER: No, it proves they are immature and like to put words in God’s mouth. The scripture teaches us to test the spirits to see if they are from God because there will be false spirits and false teachers, but these things should not keep us from experiencing God's guidance in the here and now of our lives. It shouldn’t keep us from the joy of walking with a Spirit you cannot confine and systematize. Like the wind, “you cannot tell where it comes from or where it is going." Following Him may be a little risky at times and may even make you look like a fool to the religious establishments of the day, but there is nothing unbiblical or even “extra-biblical” about that; is there?

What a Summer!

2008-07-23T15:29:00.000-07:00

After five awesome sessions of Super Summer, a great YEC, speaking at Progressive Hearts Youth Camp, and sending over 180 SS students to Tokyo for SuperSummerGlobal I am finally back home with my family. Though I was on the road a lot I did get to travel with each of my 3 older children to different weeks of SS and camp. This proved to be a wonderful way to really connect with my kids one on one. It is such a different dynamic when you are with them alone as opposed to with their siblings. I didn't have to scold and play peace maker all day, but instead got to have good talks and really get to know them. I highly recommend if given the opportunity...and if you don't have that opportunity try to make one...it is worth it!

I started preaching regularly at The Oaks Baptist in Grand Prairie a few months ago as their interim preacher and I am really enjoying that. I'm probably learning much more than I'm teaching, but it is wonderfully rewarding. Though I want them to find a full time Pastor I honestly hope they take their time doing so. I forgot how much blessing I receive from teaching on a regular basis. (For those of you who have asked: you can find the messages on itunes if you search for The Oaks or my name.)

God continues to teach me so much...I don't have the time to get into everything now however. Laura is traveling with her parents to Ohio and I'm taking care of the kids...it's nearing dinner time. Yes, I welcome your pity, its a tough job...I look forward to going back to work so I can get some rest!

Missing Grandpa

2008-04-02T12:54:00.000-07:00

I was just sitting look out my window today wishing I could go fishing and thought of my Grandpa. He passed away about 7 years ago and we used to spend a lot of time together fishing. I was reminded of how his life had impacted me which lead me to search my old computer files to find an old poem and prayer I had written for his funeral. Thought I would share them with you...

EVERYTHING NOT GIVEN IS LOST

My Grandpa and I spent much time together
We would go fishing each night despite the bad weather

He would tell me long stories about the days gone past
I would just sit and wonder how long it would last

He would talk about fishing, skiing and swimming
But what stuck out most was all the love he had given

He gave away batteries, boats and tools of every kind
But what impressed me the most was the way he gave his time

If a stranger was stranded or in need of assistance
Rusty Bucket was there and he would go the distance

He would give them a part, some gas or a ride
But he would never just pass by on the other side

Even in dying Grandpa gave of himself
Donating his body to help further our health

You see my grandpa taught me a very valuable lesson
It’s not about kind words or even how well you listen

It’s not about fame, fortune or wealth
It’s not about possessions that you can claim for yourself

It’s not about looking good in the eyes of men
It’s not even about avoiding that nature to sin

He taught me the lesson, but there is a cost
Everything not given will surely be lost

If my Grandpa were here I know what he would say
Stop crying for me that’s a waist of your day

Get out and live your life the best that you can
Make a difference in this world for your fellow man

Your cars, your houses, and all the wealth you’ve acquired
They won’t go with you when your life has expired

It is so tragic when a love one dies
Holding on to wealth with greed in their eyes

But even more tragic is a life with out Jesus
For we know up in heaven they will not meet us

Holding on to your soul has the greatest cost
So please remember – Everything not given is lost!

Lord,

Thank you for lakes,
Thank you for boats,
Thank you for skiing,
Thank you for fishing,
Thank you for giving us someone to teach us how to enjoy these gifts,
Thank you for long nights on the pontoon jigging around the lights,
Thank you for cold coffee and Grandma’s fried pies,
Thank you for teaching me that there is one perfect way to tie a knot, and helping me to realize that I will never be able do it,
Thank you for little cabins built by loving hands,
Thank you for nick names,
Thank you for great daddies, who raise their daughters to be great mommies,
Thank you for funny faces only Grandpas can make when they take out their false teeth,
Thank you for frogs, turtles and pink little elephants to blame all our mishaps on,
Thank you for goofy little songs sung by deep gruff voices,
And thank you for long stories that we’ve all heard 100 times.

Thank you for blessing our lives with the life of Harlin Russel Hampton. Help us Lord to follow your example that he strived for throughout his life. Teach us that it is in giving that we truly do receive. For we know that it is more blessed to give than to receive.

I pray that even in his death that you will use his life to touch those in this service today. And if there is someone here that has never experience the abundant and glorious life that you give, that you will use the testimony of my Grandfather’s life to help them see their need for you. Jesus, thank you for Grandpa. In Christ name, Amen

How do you talk with God?

2008-03-14T21:32:00.000-07:00

I recently received an email from a student asking how I heard the voice of God and how I was sure it was really Him speaking, so I wanted to address that here...

Growing up going to church and hearing stories of great Christians with great prayer lives lead me to always feel guilty about my prayer life. I would hear about people who would spend hours in prayer and no matter how hard I tried this was never something I could do. This is when I thought of prayer as bowing my head and closing my eyes and talking in a one way conversation. Prayer was boring to say the least, though I would have never admitted it to anyone for fear of appearing "nonspiritual."

Things have changed recently however. I now understand prayer as an awareness of God's presence in my life revealing Himself through circumstances, thoughts, writings, creation, other people etc...and my interactions with Him as I experience Him in those moments of revelation. He speaks to me through my thoughts, reflections and circumstances regularly and it is alive and exciting...far from boring.

As I speak with others about this however the objection I hear (and one I have struggled with as well) is, "How do you know its not just you thinking to yourself?" OR "How do you know what you are thinking is really from God and not from another source?"

I asked God that question not long ago and this is what I feel He said to me in this conversation.

Him: What do you have that I did not create?

Me: Nothing...

Him: Who gave you your mind, your personality, your emotions and who has ultimate oversight over your circumstances?

Me: You, of course...

Him: Who abides in you?

Me: You do!

Him: Where does all good originate?

Me: From you of course.

Him: So, if you have a good thought...a thought that edifies...a thought that encourages...a thought that challenges you to grow...a thought that convicts and restores...a thought that pushes you to help others...a thought that teaches you more about Me and yourself...a thought that is consistent with other revelations of myself in scripture...WHERE do thoughts like these originate? From you or me?

Me: It must be from you! (this is when the light came on for me) You're scripture teaches that "no one is good, no not one" and "all good things come from You." If it is good it must be from you, not me.

Him: That is right. Now you must test the spirit, as scripture teaches you to do, because you don't want to put words in my mouth that I haven't actually given you. You may make mistakes when it comes to hearing my voice, but in time and with practice you will be able to better discern my desires from your own. Additionally, the closer you grow to me the more these two will become one. Delight yourself in me and I will give you the desires of your heart. The desires of ones heart who is living in relationship to me are going to be virtually indistinguishable from my desires for you. So, as you are conformed into my image your desires will begin to line up with mine thus your thoughts will likewise line up with mine. You will "become one with Me " just as I prayed for you in John 17...and as Paul taught, you will grow to have the "mind of Christ."

I have also learned that God will often confirm what He is teaching you through other believers and through scripture. God teaches us the importance of walking with others on this journey because they can often provide balance and discernment as we seek Father's heart. On several occasions I have heard what I believe to be God's voice in my thoughts and later have another believer tell me they have heard very similar guidance thus bringing confirmation with my spirit. The longer I listen and obey the stronger my faith grows and the easier it becomes to hear Him.

I certainly still have much to learn in this regard but I pray this helps some...

But do you KNOW Him?

2008-03-04T09:17:00.000-08:00

I grew up in a Christian home.
I have prayed the "sinner's prayer."
I have been baptized.
I have memorized dozens of scripture passages.
I have attended church services weekly all my life.
I have prayed hundreds of prayers.
I have journalized dozens of those prayers.
I have a theology degree from Christian College.
I have a Masters degree for a Christian Seminary.
I have over a decade and a half of Christian ministry experience.
I direct the largest state's Christian leadership camp for teenagers.
I travel and preach to thousands every year.

But I consider all this CRAP to the surpassing joy of KNOWING Jesus! I think that is the point Paul was making in his letter to the Philippians in the 3rd chapter. The Message paraphrase records it beautifully:

"The real believers are the ones the Spirit of God leads to work away at this ministry, filling the air with Christ's praise as we do it. We couldn't carry this off by our own efforts, and we know it -even though we can list what many might think are impressive credentials. You know my pedigree: a legitimate birth, circumcised on the eighth day; an Israelite from the elite tribe of Benjamin; a strict and devout adherent to God's law; a fiery defender of the purity of my religion, even to the point of persecuting Christians; a meticulous observer of everything set down in God's law Book. The very credentials these people are waving around as something special, I'm tearing up and throwing out with the trash - along with everything else I used to take credit for. And why? Because of Christ. Yes, all the things I once thought were so important are gone from my life. Compared to the high privilege of knowing Christ Jesus as my Master, firsthand, everything I once thought I had going for me is insignificant - dog dung. I've dumped it all in the trash so that I could embrace Christ and be embraced by him."

I think I just coming to REALLY understand and experience this point in my own life. I have always believed Jesus is the Son of God and the only way by which man may be saved and I have always believed that God is sovereign, omnipresent, omnipotent, just, gracious and loving. I've also always called what I have experienced a "relationship with Jesus." After all, I "invited Jesus in my heart" back when I was just seven. But was I really growing in KNOWING Him?

Maybe a little. I had some really meaningful experiences throughout my life and I don't mean to discredit any of those. They are cherished and meaningful in my journey, but as many say, I think I was learning ABOUT HIM and wasn't really getting to KNOW HIM in a personal relationship. I fear I have been in that camp of church goers that Christ would address saying,
"Not all people who sound religious are really godly. They may refer to me as 'Lord,' but they still won't enter the Kingdom of Heaven. The decisive issue is whether they obey my Father in heaven. On judgment day many will tell me, 'Lord, Lord, we prophesied in your name and cast out demons in your name and performed many miracles in your name.'But I will reply, 'I never knew you. Go away; the things you did were unauthorized.'" (Matt. 7:21-23 New Living)

I could just hear Christ saying to me, "Leighton, you walked the isle and did all the religious things that were customary to your day. You got the theology degrees, preached about my grace and having a 'personal relationship' with me. You knew a lot of stories about me and all right theological explanations, but you didn't KNOW me. We never really connected intimately through the Spirit. We never really talked in a way where you heard my voice and my promptings. You read the scriptures and called that 'hearing from God,’ but you were just gaining head knowledge about me through second hand sources…you weren’t listening to the Spirit. You said you believe in the Trinity but treated the third person of that Trinity (the Holy Spirit) like He didn’t really exist. You got your comfort, guidance, direction and instruction from the religious institutions, bible studies, and accountability partners, but the primary source for all comfort, guidance and instruction is ME, the HOLY SPIRIT…someone your culture avoids even discussing because of fear they will appear ‘too charismatic’ or ‘experiential.’ Yes, I can speak through scripture, other believers and institutions, but the personal aspects of our relationship can’t be limited to these things if they are going to truly be called ‘personal.’ Many people throughout the ages have had a great knowledge of scripture and all the commentaries of other religious people, but they continually resist the Holy Spirit (the Pharisees for example). They have a form of ‘godliness’ but they deny the power and the personal aspects of the relationship therein. They don’t know me.”

I can’t thank God enough for opening my eyes to this and not allowing me to settle for religion. I appreciate what the scriptures and religious institutions have taught me about God, but they make a poor substitute for the Holy Spirit. That is how I was allowing my ‘relationship with Christ’ to be defined. My ‘personal walk’ boiled down to ten to twenty minute ‘quite time’ involving bible reading, journaling and a one way ‘prayer’ which rarely if ever seemed as if it was being heard, much less answered in the way I was hoping it would. My ‘obedience to God’ boiled down to attending church weekly, witnessing to the lost on occasion and basically being morally acceptable husband, father and tithing church member. My ‘relationship’ seemed pretty good by all religious standards. I had become the ‘fully devoted follower of Christ’ as defined by the Purpose Driven Model. But if you asked me, “Do you KNOW Jesus,” I don’t know that I could have honestly said, “Yes, I do.”

Now, I would say that I’m getting to know him, PRAISE GOD! I haven’t had a ‘quite time’ (in the way I described above) in months. I have learned Father is much more interactive throughout an entire day when you learn to recognize His voice and promptings. My hunger for knowing Him grows each day I spend with Him and I can’t see ever going back to attempting to confine that to a ten minute time slot. Prayer is much more natural and responsive to my circumstances...it's rarely confined to a particular time of day. Reading the scripture has become less of a way I seek to hear ‘a Word from God’ and more of a means to confirm the truth of the words he is speaking directly into my spirit. I’ve been reminded that scripture never refers to itself as “The Word of God.” Instead, Jesus himself is called “the Word” and the scripture is the ultimate testimony to lead us to an encounter with Him. It should never become the substitute for what ONLY the Spirit can provide. Plus, reading the Bible will only lead you to a system of religious obligation and shame management without a relationship with its author. The Author is worth knowing.

Do you know Him? I mean really know him? Do you know what makes him laugh…weep…delight? Not long ago those questions seemed goofy and theologically inept. I mean, how can divine omniscient being engage with a finite creature in such a way that He might ever laugh? Absurd. Now, I find myself laughing with Him throughout the day…and usually I’m the butt of the jokes. He has moved from a theological concept to be analyzed and debated to a real person who steps into my world and walks with me through the good and the bad.

What has He told you about himself recently? Has he comforted you through a tough time recently? Do you talk to him about your temptations and struggles, or like me, did you immediately run to a ‘tangible’ friend like a spouse or an accountability partner to find comfort and guidance? You know, there is a reason the Holy Spirit was called the 'Comforter' by Christ. I’ve been learning He is really good at it and the unrealistic expectations I had been putting on others aren’t putting undue stress on those relationships near as much.

I have MUCH, MUCH more to learn and I’m a little embarrassed to admit its taken this long to even learn this much. The relationship is a process and while I don’t want to discredit the earlier part of my journey as being worthless I sure do like this part much more. Dang, I love this journey!
'

Welcome Caden Charles Flowers

2007-08-14T09:44:00.000-07:00

Caden Charles was born July 20th at around 1pm weight a mere 8 lbs 13oz. Mommy and baby are doing well. Thank you all for the prayers and support during this time. We feel very blessed as God has been gracious to fill our quiver...and yes I do believe it is completely full.

The Top 10 Reasons why I Love My Wife

2007-07-11T10:56:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow marks a significant day in my life as my wife, Laura, and I celebrate 10 years of marriage. And if that is not significant enough, in this very same week we will most likely be celebrating the birth of our fourth child. This occasion causes me to reflect upon my life as a father and even more importantly as a husband. I'm not even close to being perfect in either of these roles, but they are roles I cherish far more than any others I hold. As much as I'm awed by the fact that God could use me through directing ministries such as Super Summer or the YEC I am a thousand times more awed by the blessing of my beautiful wife and children. I could not begin to thank God enough for such a sweet blessing. So, today I devote this blog to the love of my life, the mother of my children, and Lord willing the woman with whom I will spend the rest of my life. If that is too sappy for you, then click away now because it may only get worse...

The Top 10 Reasons why I love my wife:
10. I love how she consistently insists upon regular hand washing but has no problem improvising with her hand when a Kleenex is not in reach.
9. I love how she is willing to kiss me but unwilling to drink after me.
8. I love how a self proclaimed perfectionist is okay with stashing the sticky jelly jar in the crisper drawer when necessary.
7. I love how it bugs her when strangers slightly miss-enunciate her name, but is fine with her best friend calling her "George."
6. I love how when these inconsistancies are brought to her attention she will carefully explain her defense.
5. I love how she patiently reads to our children midst the barrage of questions and silly comments.
4. I love how she can make a nutrious meal appear out of a seemingly empty pantry and clean clothes appear out of a seemingly endless supply of dirty laundry.
3. I love her beautiful brown eyes and her warm smile.
2. I love to hear her laugh at our children's goofy comments (like when Cooper speculated that our independance from Great Britian was won with a game of paper/rock/sissors).
1. I love my wife because she has given me 3 (almost 4) beautiful children, a warm and loving home and someone I am so proud of to walk with each day throughout this life.

I love you tweetie!

If God could cuddle

2007-05-25T13:22:00.000-07:00

On the way home from church the other day my three children (Colson 7, Cooper 6 and Esther 4) were discussing who they loved the most. Some days they love mommy the most, depending on what she feeds them or allows them to watch on tv. Otherdays they love daddy the most, depending upon if I tickle them or bring them home a surprise. Well on this particular Sunday morning Esther announced that she loved daddy the most. Colson, who has learned from experience, quickly informed her that was rude to say and that it could hurt mommy's feelings. And Cooper added that she is supposed to love God most anyway. Esther thought about this for a moment and rebutted, "But God doesn't cuddle with me!"

Laura and I laughed but over the next several days as I thought about that statement the more it really sunk in. What my four year old princess had voiced is actually what I have felt all my life, but wouldn't ever have had the nerve to say.

Sure we are supposed to love God above all, but as Jake expressed in his comment on my last blog..."how do you really get to know a person you can't see or verbally hear?" Jake seems to be making the same observation as Esther was making. How can I know and love someone that doesn't even cuddle with me? How do I relate to someone who doesn't relate to me in the ways I need Him to relate? My daughter relates through spoken words, facial expressions, tickles and cuddles, none of which God employees. How is she even supposed to know Him, much less love Him?

As discussed in a previous post God chooses to relate to us through faith, which is what makes our relationship with Him so very unique. We often believe that it would be better for us to relate to God if, like the disciples, we were able to see, touch and speak to him in a tangible way. But, if you recall Jesus told his disciples that it would be better for them once He went away and sent the Holy Spirit. According to Jesus the relationship is actually better for the disciples once His body had ascended into heaven. Thus, we shouldn't be enving the disciples because they were able to see Christ, but in fact we should have it even better because of the indwelling of the Spirit. So, what is the problem? Why do we so often not feel as if it is better? Why do we still find it so difficult to know and love God as we should?

I don't know that I can answer that question for you, because honestly its still something I continue to grapple with in my own walk. I can only express what I believe God has been teaching me.

I've learned that God reveals Himself in more ways than most of us recognize. As the creator of the earth and all its inhabitants his divine nature and eternal attributes are revealed all around us all the time. Most of us recognize that God reveals Himself through the Bible, but few of us seem to understand that God is revealed through everything. Yes, I said EVERYTHING. Every created thing tells us something about its creator. Moreover, every circumstance has the ability to tell us something about the One who is sovereign over that circumstance. The problem is that we all too often take creation for granted and ignore most circumstances as being 'chance happenings.' We haven't learned to view our world and our own lives through eyes of faith.

In the story I told about my three children debating about who they love the most, I left out the last part. After Esther said that God didn't cuddle with her, Colson replied by asking, "Who do you think made Daddy?" (We all know where Colson gets his deep theological understanding of such matters.)

What I pray Esther learns as she matures in her faith is that the love she has for me is actually an expression of love for the One who created me, just as my love for her is also an expression of a deeper spiritual love I have for the One who gave her to me. When Christ taught us that to give a drink to someone who is thirsty or food to someone who is hungry it is as if you are doing it to Christ himself I don't believe He was just attempting to motivate people to be social activists in order to meet physical needs. I think He was expressing something much deeper. When we love created beings we are loving the one who created them. When we really get to know His creation we get a glimpse of the creator.

So, indeed God can cuddle. As a daddy, my hugs are not independant of the One who created my body and my ability to love. When I cuddle I do so as a reflection of Him, not just me. To know good is to know God and though evil at times seems to prevail there is still much good to be known in this world if we are looking for it.

Friendship with God

2007-04-10T20:52:00.000-07:00

Think about how your very closest friendships have developed over your lifetime. You meet and then you have conversations where you exchange the most basic information. If that goes well, you continue conversing learning more about each other and eventually become friends. As that friendship grows you spend more and more time together. After a while there becomes a sense of oneness, or communion, where it is as if you know what the other one is thinking and can complete each other’s sentences. You may have your differences but true friends love and accept each other unconditionally and such friends are blessings indeed.

Would you believe it is possible to have this same type of friendship with our heavenly Father? How?

In much the same way I have just described. You meet and then you start having conversations. As you spend more time conversing you grow closer and closer together. Over time you develop an intimate friendship with God. Sounds simple, right? So, then why do so many seem to struggle with developing this divine connection? Or maybe it is just me?

The problem is the most believers (and when I say "most believers" I really mean "me" but it makes feel better to think I'm not alone) simply learn about God through someone else and never learn to go directly to the source themselves. Some may even become theologians with a great grasp of the biblical texts, but still their knowledge of God is based upon second or third hand accounts. They fool themselves into thinking they know God because they have read stories about Him and have adopted a theological construct which helps them define God in human terms. Yet, still the intimacy between them and God is no more real than the intimacy between them and their favorite dead theologian. (for me it was a tie between John Calvin and Charles Spurgeon)

Many learn how to say “prayers,” but they are typically reduced to one-way conversations where they petition God for things they want Him to do for them. Few ever really learn to look and listen for His replies. (It seems that I'm just beginning to scratch the surface of this in my own life.)

Many live their lives doing much in the name of God but rarely take the time to get to know the One they claim to serve. At least that has been the bulk of my Christian experience. But recently things have changed for the better, but I still feel that I have soooo far to grow. I will say that it has been so refereshing living life in Christ rather than striving to live life for Christ. To move from a place where I saw myself as a servant of God to a place where I now understand I am actually a friend of God. As Jesus said, "I no longer call you slaves but friends." Yet, how many of us still view ourselves as His servant? How many of us still serve Him out of a sense of duty and obligation...striving in some way to earn his favor and his affection. We teach we are saved and loved by grace yet we still live with the yoke of slavery and the feeling of condemnation because we can never seem to live up to what we think He must expect of us.

For too many years I lived in that slave mentality all the while preaching "grace." I'm beginning to understand what scripture meant when it said that love drives out fear. I feel like I'm just beginning to scratch the surface of what true grace actually means. I feel like I'm learning to live in relationship with God rather than relying upon the ritual of religion to appease my guilt and shame. I cannot fully describe it...but only those who have experienced it for themselves know of what I speak.

A friend recently taught me that ritual is a poor substitute for relationship and boy was he ever right!

Moved from myspace...

2007-04-04T13:30:00.000-07:00

As you can see I moved my blogs here from myspace...sorry for those of you who left comments there...

This site works better for me because it is able to be accessed by friends who don't have a myspace account...

Hearing from God

2007-04-04T13:20:00.000-07:00

God doesn't speak to me audiably, I'm a Baptist, I couldn't handle it! But I really feel God has been speaking to me about some very crucial concerns in my own spiritual walk...
In my last post I posed a question as to why God chooses faith as the means through which we relate to Him. I believe He answered me. I wanted to type what I learned so that I could read it again and again and remind myself of His answer...hopefully it might encourage any of you who are asking the same questions...

Leighton, if I revealed myself to you in some supernatural way, whether it be through a vision or sign or some other tangible means, think about what would come of it. You would immediately start telling everyone you know about your experience. What would the result of that be? Half of those who heard you would dismiss you as a wacko, and the other half who believed you would be jealous and begin seeking a similar experience. When they don't have that experience they will become discouraged and disillusioned about their own relationship. Not only would it hurt those around you and your relationship to them, but it would hurt our relationship. Why?

Don't you see that I want you to learn to relate to me through the everyday circumstances of this world and to listen to my still small voice speaking through the Spirit, as I am now? I want you to see me in the mundane so that it stops being so mundane. I want you to see me with spiritual eyes as I work around you every single day of your life. If I show you something supernatural then that is what you are going to continue to expect and look for and I don't want you to look for me in that way. I want you to look for me in your everyday circumstances because I am right there working all the time. I don't want you to miss my work through the common everyday circumstances while looking for some mystic sign...that is not the way I have chosen to work and relate to you.

Believe me when I tell you that once you start looking at your world with spiritual eyes your faith will be strengthened far more so than if you have some Damascus road experience. You must remember that Paul was a chosen apostle. The authority of his teaching was grounded in his personal contact with me, but that is not the way I have chosen to relate to those who hear the apostles message. Thomas saw me, but as I taught you already, blessed are they who don't see and still believe. Be blessed Leighton! How? By NOT seeing with your physical eyes, but by believing and truly seeing with eyes that only I can give to you. Live in that blessing. Live in me and you'll see more than you could ask for or even imagine.

That is what I needed to hear. My relationship with God has been extra sweet these last several days as I have looked for Him in my circumstances and discuss things with him as I react and live in those day to day moments. I still find myself slipping back into my "me-centered" bubble and failing to see and hear God, but the more I practice living in this reality the more natural it becomes.

Why Faith?

2007-04-04T13:19:00.000-07:00

To continue with my previous tangent regarding the need for us to know and relate to God I want to pose a question. (BTW, I'm not really expecting answers here, these are just things I'm working through and it helps me to "talk it through" and so while I welcome your feedback I don't expect it.)

Why do you suppose God has chosen faith as the means by which we relate to Him? I mean, it certainly seems things would be much easier if God simply spoke in an audible voice or at least on occasion revealed Himself tangibly, wouldn't it? Why must it be so difficult to know and relate to God?

What I do know is that God always has a purpose for what He does. Thus, it can be assumed that the means of faith has a very valid purpose.

From Religion to Relationship

2007-04-04T13:17:00.000-07:00

I think we have all heard preachers talk about how Christianity is not a religion, but a relationship, but have we really thought about what that means? Our religious duties today such as attending a weekly worship service and/or bible study or having our "quiet times" have so often become our substitute for real relationship with God. Don't get me wrong, I believe all these "religious" activities can be a vital part of a growing relationship, but just because we do them doesn't mean we are relating to God...sometimes we are just relating to the event or activity and nothing more. At least I know that is what I'm guilty of doing more often times than I'd like to admit...

So, what do I mean by relationship? I mean relating to God just as you might relate to a friend. Talking and listening to Him. I hesitate to call it "prayer" because even that word often carries religious baggage. I'm simply talking about conversations with God that happens naturally throughout the day. I'm not talking about organized planned events (like a church service) or scheduled daily activities (like your quiet time)...I'm talking about a simple knowledge of His constant presence and continual interaction with Him as you live life.
Suppose your closest friend was with you 24 hours a day and seven days a week. Most people value their privacy and independence too greatly for this to ever become a reality, but for the purpose of this analogy just imagine how you would grow to relate to this individual. You would be constantly aware of their presence and you would speak to them continually throughout the day about circumstances as they presented themselves. And boy would you ever get to really KNOW them!!!

Now, you wouldn't just speak to them at some appointed time or in some special place, would you? You wouldn't wait to thank your friend for his gifts and his kindness in some big scheduled meeting, would you? No! Of course not!!! Instead you would speak to them throughout the day and thank them at the time the gift was given and the blessing was realized. You would RELATE to this person constantly and "without ceasing" (as Paul reminded us).
All too often we go on thinking we are living in relationship with God because we "spent time with Him in the morning" or "worshipped him at church last weekend." And, heaven forbid, if we miss one of those meetings or activities then guilt only serves to drive a bigger wedge in our already warped understanding of what a relationship with God looks like. Why? Because now that we have failed to keep our "religion" (which has come to define our relationship) we think that God is up there singing the song, "I miss my time with you, our moments together," and is disappointed in us yet again for letting Him down. But, my question is how can we miss our time with God if he abides in us? How do you neglect being with someone who never leaves you? Granted, I certainly see the need for focused bible study and prayer time, but in my own walk these activities often become the substitutes for real relationship and truly fulfilling interaction with God. Am I the only poor sap that continues to struggle with this?

I'm just concerned we have idolized our church gatherings and our quiet times in the same way the Pharisees idolized their own man made traditions and laws. Jesus words in Matthew 7:23 have slapped me back into reality numerous times throughout my life: "I never knew you, depart from me..." And he said this to self-proclaimed miracle working prophets! What is he going to say to me?

This is not about how faithful I am to my religious activities and gatherings; this is about my relationship with Him. It is about knowing Him. As I stated at the beginning, this reminder is nothing new to those of us who have been around the church for any length of time, but sometimes I wonder if this truth is really sinking in. It has been an issue throughout all of human history and I think it continues to be one of the greatest obstacles today.
How do we address this concern and get this message across to those younger in the faith without appearing to belittle all religious activities and events. More importantly how do we avoid slipping back into religiosity ourselves? I'd love to hear your thoughts on the subject.

Looking back at 2006

2007-01-08T08:08:00.000-08:00

Time again for my annual blog! Okay, I'm not a faithful weekly blogger like some of you...give me a break.

This past year has been a great one. At Super Summer 3 of our 4 sessions sold out completely and already this year we have more administrative and executive staff applications submitted than in previous years. We are praying about opening another session soon...maybe in the more southern region of the state. More importantly, God is working in the lives of those who a apart of Super Summer. One of our youth pastors who attended Super Summer this past year, Ron Evans, was challenged by the "Unleashed" vision and by God's leading decided to start a park ministry to reach unchurched students. Instead of sticking with the normal "come and see" mentality he stepped out in faith and took church to where the students already meet. Read a recent email he sent to me:

Hello Warriors,

It has been a while since our last update. Ther have been many things that have taken place. This update will come in a series of update that will put the whole picture that has taken place oveer the past few weeks.

I want to start by sharing with you a blessing that was given to us the weekend before Christmas Eve. This is a letter that was written to us by one of the students named Laura. She gave it to me and asked me to read it to the entire group. All I can say is that we serve an awesome God:

Hey Guys,

I was sitting in bed just the other night thinking about all the good and the bad in the world, when I realized something. The good in life always seems to outshine the bad. I always knew it but the realization came upon me like a flood. When I was young I always had a problem believing that God was on my side. I was always the outcast, the one who got picked on and beat up, the one that got spat on every time I went to school. But despite all the bad of my past, the good of the present outshines it.

It was just recently I accepted Jesus as my Savior and I noticed that when I did, I really did feel reborn. Nothing from my past seemed to hurt me anymore, so I decided that given the chance, yes, I would do it just the same. I wouldn’t change a thing. You see, I never really appreciated how all the bad stuff shaped who I am now, and had I not done it that way, I would never be saved. I know that sounds a little weird and awful, but it’s true. Had I not been picked on when I was little, I would have never rebelled in Jr. High, had I not rebelled I would have never found my way to the park, which in turn did lead to many of my mishappenings, but always drew me in.

Since the first night I came to the park I was hooked. It was everything I was looking for. It was a place to hang out with new and interesting people without having to worry about being judged. Had I not seen and loved everything that first night so many years ago, I would have never met all of you. I would never have known the love and respect of my peers I wouldn’t have met those I love and hold dearest. You should know who you are.

Had I not come back to the park after that first night I would have never met Ron and Tonya who helped me find God, to realize that EVERYTHING is in God’s hands. Using what they have taught me I have come to know that everything that happened to me in the past brought me to this place in my life. God meant for me to come and learn His Word amongst friends and when I really needed it the most. I was taught in my youth that everything happens for a reason- now I know that reason was because God planned it that way. His reason for doing some of the things we go through may become clear to us or may remain unknown for eternity, but the point is we don’t have to understand why, just that he planned it should be enough.

I’m sorry that this is so long guys. I really am but I wanted to share my thoughts with all of you, I can never seem to speak them, basically. I just really wanted to say thank you, to everyone. Without you guys I wouldn’t be here today. You have all blesses me with something I could never loose or throw away, happiness. You have all touched my life somehow and I will never forget the things we have gone through together. You are all my brothers and sisters and I love you all so much for helping me to find the way to my rebirth. But the biggest thank you goes to Ron. Without you, Ron I would of never made it to the light. Thank you for making the effort and not giving up on me. You have shown me the way into the light and taught me God’s Word, for that I can never repay but I am going to use all that I have and will learn to stay in the light.

Ron, if ever you have doubts about what you are doing here, just remember… you’ve changed my life for the better. You have helped me in a way nobody could ever do. You helped me find God. And if you remember that, you will have no reason for doubts. Because you have helped at least one person, and that in itself should be a blessing. Thank you so much for your patience, guidance, love, support and prayers. I will always remember you as the man that brought me the truth that saved me. As I’m sure many others will too. We’re also blessed to have met you, Tonya, Morgan, Jordan, Hayley and all of you guys. Thank you for not giving up on us the way so many others have.

Thank you, Ron and bless you,
Laura

This is just one of the many reasons we continue to do what we do! Thank you Ron for sharing how God is using you. We all will be hearing more about this minister this summer.

YEC this summer was also amazing. It is so wonderful and humbling to be a part of something that God uses to change students lives. Vodie Bauchem and the Skit Guys (Tommy and Eddie) did such a great job teaching truth and many lives were changed that weekend. The worship, the music, the drama and most importanly the Spirit was clearly from God. I had a youth leader tell me after the conference that he was so amazed because this was one of the only "big events" that he has attended that it didn't just feel like a concert with some "spiritual stuff attached onto it." He said it was a real worship expereince from start to finish and that was very encouraging to me.

This year we are looking forward to worshipping with leadership from Shane and Shane, Tiny Domiguez, The Afters, JR Vassar and Kutless. We trust God will move in a powerful way this year through the ministries we are able to be a part of.

Be sure to plug into Hot Hearts and Ignite conferences this month! We look forward to see what God is going to do in 2007!

Blessings,
Leighton

Our Administrative Staff Rocks!

2006-02-07T10:56:00.000-08:00

I just returned from our Super Summer Administrative Staff Retreat where around 40 of our most dedicated volunteers come together to meet and plan for the summer. I am continually amazed by the quality and committment level of the volunteers the Lord allows us to work with around this great state. Every year I learn more about the inner workings of Super Summer and those who make it all happen and I remain amazed at all the Lord does. I am blessed to work with a wonderful staff and with great volunteers. Thank you all!!!

Super Summer Goes Global -- UNLEASHED

2005-08-18T12:57:00.000-07:00

Wow! That is the best way I can describe all that God taught me during this first Super Summer Global mission trip. Talk about a paradigm shift! I've always known that the building is not the church but that we are the church; however, that truth really came alive while we served in Germany.

Germany has a rich Christian history but many of the church buildings have been turned into museums or are simply left empty. The primary work of the church in Germany today is found in new church starts, which are meeting in homes or shops. It was much like what I would imagine the New Testament church was like. They weren't worried about building buildings or making sure there were enough parking spaces. They were taking the church to the where the people worked and lived. What a novel idea!

The "come and see" mentality of many of our churches today is so pervasive, yet we have been commanded to go and tell. We have a concept of church as being an institution or organization with buildings, by-laws, steeples, and stained glass, but is that really what makes a church a church?

Can there be a message without a pulpit? Can there be evangelism without a tract? Can there be missions without a Lottie Moon Offering? Can there be a Bible study without Sunday school? Can there be a baptism without a baptistery? Can there be salvation without a public invitation? Can there be a church without a steeple?

YES! Where God's people meet, fellowship, learn, worship and serve is where the church exists. The church can meet in a parking lot around a flag pole in front of a high school. The church can serve in an orphanage or nursing home. The church can be discipled in a house or an ice cream shop. The church should not be bound by walls, pulpits, by-laws, constitutions, business meetings, steeples and stained glass windows. The church should be unleashed to go to where the people are living. The church should be unleashed to reach those who would never darken the door of a religious institution. We are the body and it is time that we go where God is at work instead of merely asking him to bless our works. It is time that the true church become UNLEASHED!

Can you over emphasize missions?

2005-05-02T14:59:00.000-07:00

Currently only 1 out of every 144 career vocational ministers/missionaries and 1 penny from every dollar are going to the unreached people groups of our world. In other words, we are not properly balanced in our efforts to reach the lost. That means we must communicate the global needs and allow God’s people to respond accordingly. We understand that not all are called to go global, but we do believe all are called to be involved in God’s global plan on some level. We also believe that by emphasizing and energizing global missions we can revitalize local missions. It has been our experience that those who develop a more global and kingdom mind set by traveling outside their comfort zone become more aware of and responsive to the needs at home.

In short, we firmly believe that a global emphasis will not only assist in reaching the lost over seas, but right here at home. Please help me continually communicate that vision and know that it is my desire to remain balanced in our approach to reach the lost.

The heart of a volunteer.

2005-03-18T08:12:00.000-08:00

At the end of January we had our annual Administrative Staff Training for Super Summer and I found myself once again being amazed at the quality of people who volunteer their time for this ministry. I am truly blessed to be able to work with such a great staff here in my office and I know I can speak for all of us when I say we are all blessed to be able to work with such great volunteers.

Next month we will have the privilege of meeting with the rest of the volunteers at the Executive Staff Retreat and I look forward to seeing all of these dear friends once again as we prepare for a great summer. Continue to pray for us as we make preparations for Super Summer 2005.

Blessings.

On a personal note...

2005-02-07T09:11:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I stop and look around and think to myself, "Dude, you are so blessed and you don't deserve it." I have a beautiful wife...I married way over my head...and three great kids. Laura and I have been married for about 71/2 years. In that time we moved 3 times and had 3 children, but we have survived…barely. We certainly feel as if God has us right where he wants us and we have no plans on changing anything for a long time. We are praying that God has that same plan. :-)

Colson, our oldest son, is 51/2 years old and is as tall as most 8 year old boys. He has the darkest brown eyes and is already quite the heart breaker. Colson is my little fishing buddy. Most 5 year olds would loose interest in fishing after the first 10 minutes or so, especially if you aren't catching anything. NOT COLSON! The first time we went out on the lake together we fished for four hours without a bite and I was ready to call it quits. He begged to keep fishing. Finally just before dark he and I said a short prayer asking for help and sure enough he caught a small crappie. I've never seen him so excited! He bragged on that fish to anyone who would listen for the next two weeks. Since then we have gone out several times and he still has a blast. Colson is very articulate for a 5 year old and as most 5 years he is very inquisitive. I've learned to be careful because I've noticed that he actually remembers how I answer his questions and he is very likely to repeat those answers to others. (That can be embarrassing at times) Colson has the best memory. He has memorized many verses of scripture and even whole chapters of narrative, such as the story of Christ's birth. He humbles his daddy regularly.

Cooper, our middle child, just turned four in January. He is 18 months younger than Colson but only weighs about 3 lbs. less. He is destined to be the a future linebacker in the NFL. (A college scholarship would be acceptable however) Cooper has beautiful blue eyes and sweetest smile (Which is the reason his mother has nicknamed him "blueberry muffin," which should go over well for his football buddies in the future). He has not yet grown into his head, but that just makes him that much cuter to his proud parents. Last year he dressed up as Charlie Brown for Halloween and it was the perfect costume for the Coopster. Cooper hasn't quite learned to pronounce his "Rs" his "Ls" or the short "e" sound, so really he has a dialect all his own that often his mother and I must ask his older brother to decipher for us. We wouldn't change it for the world, he is such a cutie. Cooper has the best sense of humor and can make us laugh without even trying. He has had his mother and me in crying in laughter on many occasions.

Esther, our youngest, will be two in March and is daddy's little girl. There is just nothing like the relationship between a daddy and his daughter. I have to really work hard to make sure that she is properly disciplined so as not to become too spoiled, but I've about decided that may be inevitable with her grandparents involvement. :-) Esther, like her mother, has the prettiest brown eyes and a smile that will melt the macho out of any man. And is she ever a camera queen. You pull out a camera and she puts on a show! I guess that is why she and Papa Chuck get along so well, he always has his camera handy. Esther always says, "Peese" (please) when she wants something and her mother and I haven't learned to resist it's power. We are hopeless. And when she crawls up in my lap holding her "gankie" (blankie) and her "inkie" (binkie) its all over! I'm toast. Pray for me...

Last, but certainly not least, my wife Laura. She turned 29 in December (for the third time), but doesn't look a day over 25. She is the love of my life and continues to amaze me. She has endured much in our first 71/2 years together and yet she continues to patiently serve right along side me in ministry and in raising up our children. She cares daily cares for our family's needs, home schools Colson, maintains our household, coordinates our church's Adult Bible Fellowship, and still finds time for her hubby. As if that is not enough she is entertaining the idea of a fourth child. Oh my! I'm trying to distract her from that idea, so if you have any suggestions let me know. She is an amazing woman who I am honored to have as my bride. I could not wish for anyone better with which to spend the rest of my life.

Oh, I almost forgot little Rudy, our 8 year old schnauzer. We love him too.

You can see a picture of my family here: http://www.youthevangelism.com/index.cfm?PAGE_ID=33

The Vision behind Global Revolution 2005

2005-01-04T13:52:00.000-08:00

Our vision for Super Summer has always been for you to send us your best and for us to send them back better equipped and better trained disciples of Christ. In 2004 we challenged the students to take the message of Christ “Around the World” literally as we introduced the first ever Super Summer Global mission trip to Germany (go to www.supersummerglobal.com for more information). This year as we send approximately 100 students over seas to learn how to plant churches on foreign soil we will continue with the vision of challenging students to make a difference in their world, whether at home or abroad.

In 2005 the theme and vision for Youth Evangelism will be:

Global Revolution
-don’t waste you life. change your world.

Acts 17:6b: “...These who have turned the world upside down have come...”

The apostles and followers of Christ in the early days of the church were known by the world as revolutionaries. They were literally turning their world upside down with the message of Christ. What is the world saying about disciples of Christ today? Are we still turning the world upside down with the gospel, or are we pursuing our own passions and dreams? There is a risk in going overseas but its a risk that is right, because it is better to lose your life than to waste it. It seems as if we have become more of a sub-culture in a world where God has called us to be a counter-culture. I believe much of this apathy is a result of living in our comfort zone, especially us in the Bible Belt. I firmly believe that when we and our students get out of our comfort zones and get on the front lines that we all will come back better equipped to win our homes, schools, and communities with the gospel of Christ.

Some may look at this years theme and think that we have lost our creativity because it involves the idea of missions just like last year. Well prepare yourself, because every year you will continually hear the vision that God brought us to take the message to every creature. After all, that is evangelism! How many people do you know who don't know about Jesus here in the Bible Belt? People here know the message and they need to be continually ministered to and evangelized, but what about the half of the world who has never heard the name of Jesus Christ? There is a battle going on for an unreached world and the front lines are not currently being sent many reinforcements. Most of the solders are staying and working at home while our front lines are overwhelmed with needs.

But, out of sight out of mind. If our future workers aren’t ever seeing the harvest how can they know the need? “How can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!” I want us here in Texas to be the largest missions recruiting and sending ministry in the world! We, as a state have been so blessed and to much is given, much is required. We need to get to work and I know with God’s direction and vision Texas can bring the next Global Revolution.

Will you join us?

Welcome to my new blog spot!

2005-01-03T09:01:00.000-08:00

Well, I finally decided to become an offical blogger. I'm still not sure what that actually means, but nevertheless here I am.

I believe every ministry needs a clear vision. And that vision needs to be known to those who participate in that ministry. This site allows me to regularly share with each of you what God is teaching me and where He is directing me in regard to Texas Youth Evangelism.

Even if only my wife reads this I know it will help me to continually keep the vision at the forefront as I seek to serve you in reaching teenagers for Christ. This site will also give me the opportunity to keep friends and family updated on what is going on with my family on a more personal level. I look forward to seeing how God is going to work in 2005.

I'll be posting a vision for 2005 soon and I welcome your comments along the way.

Happy New Year!

Leighton