Opening Thoughts

I am starting to dream about gathering together again as a church body. Literally, dreaming. I had one the other night, and the joy to see each other was off the charts.

How. Long. Is. This. Going. To. Last?

In times like this, I continually find release in the sovereignty of God. He knows what he's doing. There are a billion things I don't know, but I am sure none of these events escapes his will. He has a purpose in the pandemic. He has guided human history toward his kingdom for thousands of years. I believe he is doing the same today.

Remembering the sovereignty of God is especially important during times of difficulty. Right now, camps are forming. Some think this virus isn't terribly serious. Others think it worthy of increased restrictions. Both camps want to convince the other. And, in the church, since we come from various generations, cultures, and backgrounds, we have both camps. But all believers should join the camp which remembers God and his sovereign plans. He is using this somehow. It would not have occurred without his permission. He is in control. I do not have all wisdom, yet he does. In this, I take great comfort.

Personal Update

Our family continues to do well during this season. Like everyone, we miss seeing our friends. We all have a love-hate relationship with Zoom. And we look forward to all the normal things of life once again. Still, we are doing well, trying to make the best of the situation.

As for me, I have sensed the Lord's presence in a special way during this time. I have never felt like a guy who needs tons of affirmation, but it has been odd to teach with little to no feedback from others. However, I have noticed a heightened sense of knowing God's favor on my endeavors to proclaim his word. It's as if the silence from others has enabled me to hear his still, small voice of pleasure at our church's desire to study the word. So, as I keep on trucking through Mark and Genesis, it has been rewarding to consider God's happiness over such work. "Preach the word," he said. And I am trying.

Pastoral Update

We continue to move forward with the plan to follow the guidelines our governing authorities lay out for us. We won't be more conservative or aggressive than they recommend. At this point, California seems poised to loosen restrictions later than many other states. Though we don't know exactly what the loosened restrictions will look like, we imagine there will be requirements for social distancing, reduced building capacity, and size limits on gatherings. In response, our church has formed a reopening task force that is coming up with various plans and scenarios for the new normal. Once the guidelines and timelines are announced, our team is ready to roll.

I have said this to the church a few times now, but we will continue to broadcast an online version of our church services even after restrictions loosen. Many will need to or prefer to utilize that option, and I am happy to oblige. Though not an ideal way to worship, I consider it a gift, especially during this season. I am especially heartened by those who are in a Life Group, because, for them, though the service might be digital, they are in fellowship with other believers. So important.

Book Release: Christ Unites

It is with great pleasure I get to announce to you the paperback and Kindle release of my next little book, Christ Unites: How Jesus Connects His People To His Purpose. Available on Amazon today, I hope it encourages and builds you up for Christ's purposes in your life!

A few years ago, Calvary Monterey studied the book of Ephesians together. As we considered the headship of Jesus over the new humanity he's made by his blood, our minds and hearts were transformed. Christ further united us to himself and his mind through the pages of his word.

This unification is the mission of Ephesians. It paints a masterful picture of the way everything will look when submitted to the will of Christ. Individuals, communities, families, workplaces, habits, and churches under the lordship of Christ are beautiful. And Ephesians details what such a glorious life looks like, and Christ Unites is my attempt at declaring Ephesians' glories.

Each chapter is a study in each successive passage in Ephesians, helping the reader understand Christ's vision for their lives. Jesus is the head, and I hope these writings help bring a greater understanding of his word. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing. If you enjoy the book, please leave a positive review on Amazon. Each one helps!

Book Recommendations

The past couple of Sundays, Calvary Monterey has been studying the kingdom parables of Mark 4. In them, the word is often highlighted. We must believe the right things about Jesus and his kingdom.

I recently read a great book pertaining to this subject: The Gospel According To Satan by Jared C. Wilson. In it, Jared picks apart eight subtle lies Satan loves to tell the world, including believers. As a teaser, here is his list:

• Lie #1: God Just Wants You To Be Happy
• Lie #2: You Only Live Once
• Lie #3: You Need To Live Your Truth
• Lie #4: Your Feelings Are Reality
• Lie #5: Your Life Is What You Make It
• Lie #6: You Need To Let Go And Let God
• Lie #7: The Cross Is Not About Wrath
• Lie #8: God Helps Those Who Help Themselves

Top Blog Posts From Last Month

• How To Read More Books
• How Not To Handle Temptation (Genesis 3:2)
• In The Beginning, God (Genesis 1:1)

Prayer Requests

• Leadership wisdom for Calvary Monterey
• Endurance in teaching Mark and Genesis
• Economic provision for church members hurt by the pandemic
• Wisdom for our governing authorities