Praying for you today - 5/13/2013

My pray for you today, 
" . . . There's no rule that says God can only deliver by using a big army. No one can stop God from saving when he sets his mind to it" 1 Samuel 14:6b 
[The Message Bible]

AMEN!!!

Love Ya, 

UBUNTU!

Praying for you as you lead

Abba, thank you for today and life you’ve given me. All that i have is your gift and I am reminded that without you I don’t have anything. Thank you for being central to our lives, may we walk with you to become complete in you.  Thank you for the work you’ve begun and doing in me, even as I am unsure what that might be.

Bless these my brothers, sisters and fellow laborers in your holy calling upon our lives. Thank you the work we’ve been called into, no matter how challenging. Thank you for the struggle, and yes, the pain that accompanies it. You’ve led us this far, I trust you for where you are leading.

Thank you for protection as we go on to what’s next.I love you for the way you love me.

In your Name I pray, Amen!!!

Love ya, T.A.B.,

UBUNTU

A Prayer for Christian leaders - 3/25/2013

Abba, today I pray for those of us who are preparing for one of the most important Sunday morning messages of our times and lives. To some it it just ‘another Sunday morning message,’ we are often unaware of how mightly you can and often do move among us, through people just like us.

Thank you for the inspiration of Your Holy Spirit, even now. This week some of us will be called upon the preach the funeral of a dear and beloved brother or sister in Christ, who it seems has passed into eternity all too soon; a friendship broken because of death we wish had not taken place. Or, we will be called to the bedside of someone, in a hospital or nursing home, to the home of young one, we didn’t see coming. We who use language and words often so easily, will find moments and times like these, as moments when . . .

Come Holy Spirit, we need you now more than ever. Lives depend upon you to change and transform, to convict and allow us to find a place of brokenness, where only you can repair or/or restore. Here Lord is where and when we need you the most. Here in the quiet of this moment, when I sit with and open Bible, and open heart and empty sheet of paper (or computer page) is where you can do your best work. Thank you for your inspiration and direction; for a living Word to a broken world.

And for those of us, who don’t preach or teach this weekend, may we too be instruments of a transformed life, by how we live, our lives being ‘living testimonies.’ of the ever living Christ! This year, this Resurrection Sunday, come Holy Spirit!!! Come!!! Work in and among us. Our clothes may not be new or stylish, may you be seen in what we are rather than what we have to wear. Thank you for the reminders of what you’ve done for us, in coming, living, dying and rising again for us. Thank you and I bless you for the gift you’ve made of us, to those who know you and the many who don’t. Many don’t care or know to care, but you do, and I thank you that you’ve made of me and others the voice of God to a wounded, and dying society and world.  This our prayer, in Your Name, AMEN!!!

P.S. to my fellow ministers wh0 will stand to proclaim your Holy Word this Resurrection Sunday, PREACH SIR, (MA'AM!)

Love ya, T

UBUNTU

Just Thinking:

When friends let you down. Jesus asked three for his closest friends, to accompany him to the garden of Gethsemane (Luke 29:39 - 46) at a critical moment in his life, they fell asleep, not once but THREE times. Sad, but true of not only them, but many of our friends as well. 

Most of us are willing, but " . . . the flesh is weak." I need you, when I need you, but you weren't there for me! I've had it, and you will as well! Why am I surprised or pained by it? That's just the way we are at times. Please remember Peter's promise that he would die with Jesus. It turns out this is the same guy, who denied the Lord THREE times in the same evening.

Jesus was 'hurt' by by their failure and so will you, when I need you the most, (and I've been there for you) and you don't or won't come through for me. Don't be surprised, we all have or will let someone who loves us or needs us, down at some point. Jesus demonstrated his love for them, by including them in the moment of his arrest and after his resurrection.

I hope by His grace I too can and will be as generous with those who when I needed them, didn't call, didn't come through for me or spent time with me in my "Garden of Gethsemane' moment.

Love ya, T

"UBUNTU"

Praying Together for each Other

Abba, thank you today for those who support us in our life, work, calling and Ministry; for those who take time to offer prayer, say or send a word of encouragement and those who simply pray for me and don’t comment etc., for us, thank you.

Thank you for those who stick by and with us, often I wonder why? Thank you for these gifts to us, may we share our love with them and others as well.

Thank you for open hearts and minds to love and work with us. Thank you for a “ . . . a little meal in a barrel, and little cruse of oil, . . .” (1 Kings 17:12,) that you are working with to bring about miracles we don’t expect.

Thank you for your blessing today and throughout this week on these your children, and fellow servants, In the mighty Name of Jesus I pray, AMEN!!!

Praying Together on Monday - 2/11/2013

Abba, today I thank you for the life you given and allow me to have. You have blessed me to enjoy the presence of You own Holy Spirit every day of this life. You’ve walked not only with me, but up and down in my daily life. You have been the one constant I can depend upon, THANK YOU!

i pray today, for those bereaved families and friends who have lost loved ones recently, especially those who passed into your presence so suddenly and unexpectedly. Bless those among us, who have had to stand by the bedside of a loved one, who lingered on the verge of death itself. Even here your Spirit was present, THANK YOU! Grant us courage to trust you when we don’t understand why and why now? We have questioned your wisdom and even your sovereignty, but we know you love us, even as we struggle to understand your why. Even here we thank you!

Bless us as we begin a new week, with it’s challenges, struggles, pain and frustrations. Thank you for blessing us with a few friends, brothers and sisters who care enough to listen, and when they aren't near to share our burden or struggle, I know they are interceding for me without knowing what I (we) face.

We thank you for a good outcome to our labors and the work we do that very few see or understand. Thank you for a cheerful heart, a song not only in the night, but during our daytime as well. come Holy Spirit, do your best work in me and the ministry and life I’m called to live.

Thank you for family, even as we struggle to be ‘a family.’ Thank you for that one who loves me not only for what i do, but for who I am. Thank you for those who cause me pain and tears, and moments of question. Thank you for being so near. Thank you for help and hope as I wonder what’s next? Thank you for being the joy of my salvation, the lifter of my head, my strong tower and the peace that passes all understanding, today, throughout this week and for the rest of my life!

I love you Jesus! In your own Name i pray, AMEN!!!

“UBUNTU’

Praying Together On Monday - February 4, 2013

 ^"Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you." 1 Peter 5:7 (KJV)

Abba, today I thank you for this reminder, this Word to me, that you care for me. Not only because of what I do, but because You care for me. THANK YOU!!! How simple this is, but sadly I've come to believe you were interested only in what I do or have done, Your Word to me today reminds me of the value You place upon me as a person, one of your 'dear ones.' I bless you for being called into your service and place where I serve, no matter the value others place upon me and what I'm called to do, you blessed me to be, for your greater purpose and glory, THANK YOU!

Thank you for this version on this Scripture, you "careth . . ." which implies, You continue to care. You don't stop caring for me because "I do;" You care because I am. There person I am, the purpose I serve, and the pleasure it gives you to be my God, and being in my life. 

Thank you for your ongoing concern for me and mine, if my family, THANK YOU! I my community, THANK YOU! If for no one but myself, thinking I am alone, (single), You are present, and working within and around me, for your own glory and purpose, THANK YOU!

May I find peace simply walking with you, and joy in service of yourself. Thank you for healing the wound of my past and those who like me have be wounded along the journey, you've seen our wounds, and you've poured in 'the oil and wine,' of healing, even when I don't think it 'feels' that way. You care for me. Me, the person you created me to be, the me, you continue to work on and out of for a purpose and glory I may not live to see the end of. 

THANK YOU for your care, your love and grace, which continues to work in, on and through me. Thank you for just being present, I love you! In Jesus Name I pray, AMEN!!!

T.A.B.

http://taburns.blogspot.com

"ubuntu" 

Thank you Elder Lovell Garrett for being His voice to me. To

Praying Together on Monday - January 14, 2013

1/14/2013

Abba, Today I begin with thanksgiving for your goodness and grace to me. Thank you for caring for and about me, everything that happens in and around my life is of importance to you, even the smallest detail, THANK YOU!

I don’t often understand why you allow events and circumstances to occur, but I thank you for being present, in my struggles, pain and yes, confusion. Thank you for the good days, days when things go well. Help me to trust you during good times and well as those that aren't as well.

As I minister those around me as I work alongside them, my I remember they too have difficulties and struggles as I do as well. May I remember that their days are filled with as many questions and challenges as I have.  Allow me to be filled with your Spirit of grace and understanding, as walk this road of daily living together with others.

Thank you for the mixture of elements which make up my day and week. Thank you for opportunities, and yes, even challenges I don’t understand. I pray for the selfish and self-serving;  those who seems to brush the ‘poor and less-important’ aside as if they don’t matter.

Help me to remember I’m you’re and You are at work in and through me as well as anyone else. Thank You for the value you've given me and my life. The purpose You called me to and for.  May I learn and understand the value of patience and have the willingness to continue in the work and struggle of life and ministry for you glory.

Thank you for a new week with all of you wonderful opportunities, even those that are disguised as challenges or painful experiences. Trusting you for your goodness and mercy, I walk into this new day and week believing, that “ . . . all things work together for good, to them who love the Lord, who are the called according to His purpose.”

Thank you for the ‘left-overs,’ and what some to think of ‘throwaway’s’ of these you can and often do create something new, different ; may they and we learn together how to create something new. Thank you for being at work in and around my life, for that which isn't easy. Thank you for being present. For this and these I bless you, AMEN!!!

T.A. Burns

"UBUNTU"

If you are a Pastor or Christian Leader . . .

Pastors learn to Heal Themselves
By  JoAnne Viviano
The Columbus Dispatch Friday January 4, 2013 4:40 AM

• Comments: 0

Pastor Rickey Baker was wrapping up a Sunday sermon at New Palestine Church in North Linden when he suddenly felt exhausted and weak, so much so that he eventually left the sanctuary and found a seat in the foyer.

Chest pains prompted him to call for emergency medical service, and he was taken to a hospital, where the father of four learned he had had a massive heart attack.

More than two years later, the 50-year-old Baker has changed his eating habits and slimmed down. He says God was trying to wake him up and set him on a path to ensure he’d be able to keep doing the work he was meant to do.

Baker is not alone in his struggle to stay healthy as the leader of a church congregation. Recent studies indicate that clergy members might sometimes be so focused on taking care of their flock that they neglect their own health.

For example, researchers at Duke University in Durham, N.C., found in 2008 that United Methodist pastors in North Carolina had an obesity rate of about 41 percent, versus the state average of about 29 percent. The pastors also had higher rates of high blood pressure, angina, diabetes, asthma and arthritis.  “They’ve been called to this vocation of serving God, and they see serving others as an important part of that,” said Rae Jean Proeschold-Bell, the research director of the Duke University Clergy Health Initiative, which includes a two-year intervention program for those involved in the study.

“It’s never clear to them what is God’s work in answering their call and what is taking care of themselves and OK to say no to,” she said. Added to the self-pressure is pressure from congregations that expect pastors to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, Proeschold-Bell said. As church budgets shrink and people have less time to volunteer, pastors are responsible for everything from mowing the lawn to planning Bible camps to raising money for a new building.

She said it’s important for church leaders to understand and address the pressures because the cost of clergy health care could bankrupt congregations. The Episcopal Church, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the United Methodist Church and the Reformed Church in America are among those that have taken steps in that direction, as have local groups. In Columbus, personal trainer Sidney West of Body By Sid offers a Pastor Fit Program aimed at clergy members.

The Methodist Theological School of Ohio, in Delaware, has overhauled food-service options to encourage more-healthful eating: All-you-can-eat meals and a soft-drink fountain have been eliminated from the dining hall, and fresh fruit is free with any purchase. In vending machines, soda has been replaced with juice, candy bars with granola bars. A goal is to raise awareness when potential clergy members are just beginning on their path, said the Rev. Jay Rundell, president of the school. Along with changing food options, the school has offered more workout space and opportunities for students to take advantage of the campus’ vast outdoor areas. A healthy clergy, he said, can serve as a role model for congregations. “A pastor has the privilege to be in a very central place,” he said. “Most pastors in most congregations have a great deal of influence. With that kind of influence, you could set really good examples.”

Pastors are constantly responding to phone calls, text messages and emails, Baker said. Even when things do get quiet, the members of their congregation are still on their mind.
He and his wife, Carolyn, New Palestine’s co-pastor, joined West’s Pastor Fit Program in September after their son heard a radio ad offering a free 28-day trial.

Mr. Baker said he also changed his eating, exercise and thinking habits, and the couple have continued to work with West. “I’m really looking forward to working out now. My body craves it,” said Mrs. Baker, 48. “It’s been so great for us physically, there’s no way we could walk away.” West said he started his program because “Pastors have instilled so much in us, in me, so it was my time to give back. I realize I have a God-given gift, and I can’t keep it to myself.”

His work has led to a number of other faith-based events, including a “Chain-Breaking” health-and-fitness seminar for clergy this Saturday at New Palestine Church. A similar event for the general public is planned for February. Mr. Baker said the new lifestyle has affected the way he and his wife preach, offering their congregation messages on good health and on moving forward “one step at a time.”

“Being in this program has changed the way I look at life,” he said. “It has changed the way I look at ministry.”
A “Chain-Breaking” seminar for clergy members will feature health screenings and speakers from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Saturday at New Palestine Church, 1000 E. Hudson St. For more information, call 614-262-5353 or visit www.bodybysid.com.
jviviano@dispatch.com
@JoAnneViviano

Praying Together on Monday 12/31/82012 one last Time

Abba, Today on this the final day of 2012 I thank you for everyday and moment of it, even those I’ve questioned and wondered about. Thank you for the support of our families, for the blessings they are not only to me but to so many others, even when they may not ‘feel’ like it or know that they are.

Thank you for a calling and a purpose for my and our lives. Thank you for each of these my friends, brothers, sisters and fellow-labors in the Gospel. We didn’t seek you, you sought, came, bled and died for us, THANK YOU!!!

Thank you for the place where we serve. No matter that is less then we wish and want it to be. I am where you want me and each of us to be, at the moment. Thank you for courage, to continue to stand and serve with grace and dignity. Thank you for Your Holy anointing, which cannot be purchased or bought at any price. Thank you that I am serving under and by it and not of myself.

Thank you for struggle and the pain that accompanies it, even here you have meaning an purpose. I’m not in love with it, but as long as you are present, I know you walk with and within me, enabling me to come forth as pure gold. Help me to be an living example of the Christ who willingly when to Calvary for those like me, who are undeserved, but for whom you were willing to die.

Thank you for the country in which I live, give me courage for face and challenge the evil which portrays itself as ‘goodness, and fairness,’ when neither of these are true, but only self servicing. May I ever stand against those who pray upon the weak and defenseless in the name of ‘the greater good,’ when but a few benefit. Thank you for those who are a blessing to those who otherwise might never believe they can rise above their past and their present circumstances.

Come now Holy Spirit, rise within us, change us before we attempt to change others. Come, thank you for breaking my heart, so that you might heal the brokenness within me. Thank you seems like so little, for someone who has given me and the world so much, I give you my heart and my life, to use as You will, beginning this moment and for not only the “new year,” but the rest of my life!!!

In the strong name of Jesus I pray, AMEN!!!

T.A.B. 

"UBUNTU"

What Good Shepherds Don't Do

When tending becomes controlling, we've overstepped our role.

Skye Jethani

In 2005, townspeople in Gevas, Turkey, watched in horror as one sheep jumped to its death, and then 1,500 others followed over the same cliff. When the villagers, whose livelihoods depended on the flock, reached the bottom of the mountain, they found a billowy white pile of death. Some 450 sheep were lost, but amazingly 1,000 survived. As the pile grew, the dead bodies cushioned the fall of other sheep.

How did this accident happen? The shepherds responsible for protecting the flock had left the sheep on the mountain to eat breakfast, and then the fleeces started to fly.

The importance of a shepherd is inversely proportional to the intelligence of the animal being shepherded. Dogs, for example, manage to survive fairly well without human oversight. Dolphins do even better. Sheep, on the other hand, don't have the good sense not to jump off a cliff. They need a shepherd to survive.

The fact that Scripture compares God's people to sheep ought to humble us. We need godly shepherds to lead, feed, and protect us from the world and from ourselves. We are irrefutably sinful (and often stupid) creatures willing to throw ourselves off cliffs of self-destruction. This truth, however, can tempt shepherds to overstep their role. Sometimes the most difficult part about pastoral ministry is knowing what is not our responsibility.

After the Resurrection, Jesus restores Peter and tells him three times to "feed" or "tend" his sheep and concludes with an allusion to his eventual martyrdom. Peter seems less than thrilled with this assignment, because he immediately asks Jesus about John's calling. The Lord rebukes him, "If it is my will that he remain until I come, what is that to you?" (John 21:22).

We see Peter's temptation to overstep his role. He wants to know, and perhaps influence, John's calling. But Jesus makes it clear that determining John's calling is not Peter's responsibility. Essentially Jesus says, "You feed. You tend. You do not call. That is my prerogative. You are the servant; I am the master."

This has always been a temptation for us pastors. Knowing how helpless and stupid sheep can be, we come to believe that without our guidance, they can do nothing. So beyond feeding and tending, we assume it is also our responsibility to call—to tell Christ's sheep what they are to do.

Feeding and tending includes teaching. We instruct God's flock from the Scripture and teach them to obey all Jesus has commanded. The general commands from the Bible that apply to all disciples are sometimes known as our corporate calling.

Where we overstep as shepherds is when we assume the responsibility for a disciple's specific calling. This is what Peter questioned regarding John, and it's a tendency often encouraged by our culture's understanding of leadership. In corporate America the leader is the person with the vision. She or he then calls others to a particular task in order to accomplish it. We've accepted this view of leadership within the church, too, assuming the pastor's role is to articulate a particular vision and call all people to that singular work. Success is then measured by how many people answer our call.

We spend much of our energy calling people to our mission, to advance our church, to be evangelists, or even better—missionaries. And we do this with the best of intentions. We want to see God's work accomplished. What we forget is that Christ has called us to be shepherds who feed and tend, not masters who call. That is his job; they are, after all, his sheep. In Matthew 9 Jesus says, "The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few," but he does not tell his disciples to find, call, and send out more laborers. Instead, he instructs them to "pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers." Jesus does not outsource his responsibility to call to us.

The instinct to protect the sheep under our care is a good one; heaven knows they need it. But when feeding and tending becomes controlling or determining life direction, we've overstepped our role. We may think it's our job to call as many people as possible into missions or church work. But a disciple's specific calling always comes from Christ. Our task is to lead them into deeper communion with him. Christ's sheep need a shepherd. They already have a Lord.

[Copied from Leadership Journal]

Skye Jethani is senior editor of Leadership Journal, contributor to Out of Ur, and regularly teaches at Blanchard Alliance Church in Wheaton, Illinois.

Praying Together on Monday 12/17/2012

Today Father, more than most I desire that we draw close to you. Not simply because of the tragic events in Newtown, Conn., but because how easily and quickly we forgot our need of you. Remember I pray these families and friends, a community bound together not only by a horrific tragedy, and sense of loss for those we have never met, but because we understand the loss. We too are touched by it and at this time of year when we are trying to be cheerful and joyous because of the birth of a savior, we're hit with so great a loss. 

Help us as pastors, ministers and Christian leaders, and fellow human beings, to pray earnestly for these and those like them and ourselves, for our behavior and conduct to each other. For our failings as fellow beings, and not only the families of those killed, but the family of the perpetrator as well. He too has a family, who are be suffering as well, may they find you are present with them as well. 

I pray for our county, not only in the light of this latest event, but as a society and a culture, we've largely abandoned you and your teaching, and attempted to lead our lives without you and benefit of your instruction. We have abandoned you and now in a moment of utter failure, we call upon your name and ask your help. You have every right to say no or nothing.  Thank you for being so loving and hearing our cry and prayers. 

During the next few days, the families of their children will become ours; we will watch in silence and morn with those who have lost loved ones; may they know they are cared for not only today and this week, but that we will look out for them and each other, as if they were our family, because they are. May the distance which separates us, evaporate through prayer and concern. May we learn that we need you and each other, all of us. 

Come Holy Spirit, heal our wounded hearts, calm our anger and utter frustration not only in sobs and tears, but learning to lean on you and each other. 

Bless us who are called upon to preach and teach during this Christmas season, to do so with a greater seans of the meaning of your coming, as your angel said to Mary, " . . . to save His people from their sins." Thank you for a hope far greater than then that of some some senseless killer, and death of so many little children, but for those of us who must live with the empty place at the table, the room where they have slept, the toys and dolls left without a master or someone to hug them, and heart that will always long to  hold these dear one again, but cannot,   

Thank you again, for loving us, holding dear to your heart; for weeping with us and reminding us as you did at the grave of your dear friend, Lazarus. "Jesus wept."  May we lead through tears, heartbreak and pain, may we find strength in your Word and the presence of others. Thank you for sending the greatest and most valuable gift of all time, Your only begotten Son, Jesus to allow us to your son and daughters and children of the Most High. 

In the name of Jesus I and we pray, AMEN. 

T.A.B.

http://taburns.blogspot.com

"UBUNTU"

Praying Together On Monday - 12/3/2012

Abba, Thank you for Advent. With so much to do, I can forget that “You are the reason for the season.” The some that is nothing more than a trite phrase, often quoted but not really believed or understood. With so much to do and so many to do for, I get caught up in doing and forget the real reason for this glorious time of year.

Thank you for caring so much for us as your creation, that when we fell in Adam, you provided a means of salvation and restoration for an entire race. Slow me down Lord, my mind and heart race into the next thing I’ve (we’ve) off to do. Frankly, I fail to encounter you as I’m at work for you. Here in this moment in this simple prayer, come Holy Spirit, may i seek you who isn’t hard to find or that far way. Come, and give me rest in yourself so that those I meet or work with will sense your presence.

Thank you for being of service to our neighbors and community, for allowing us to be your hands and feet to those who have have need. Forgive me as I often become callous to the needs around me, because they are so often greater than I can touch or resolve. Thank you for those who work with me, they have have their own ‘issues’ as I have mine. I can see theirs but often ‘gloss-over’ my own. May we learn to work together with those who disagree with me, or refuse to submit to my authority or vision. Lord, give me your heart, I’ve allowed my own to darken sometimes.

Bless these my brothers and sisters, Yes, they too are your own, to find a place where we all fit together, even as we are divided by distance, ministry type and calling; to say nothing of those clearly obvious differences, the one’s we don’t and often won’t talk about, because they are uncomfortable or won’t fit neatly into a box I’ve (we’ve) created. Lord, you know we need each other, but “I don’t know them, and why would they care about me?” It is your Spirit that touches hearts, that calls us into places where we are uncomfortable, but needed. Forgive me for trying ‘fix’ someone else, when I am so lacking myself.


So thank you for where you have led me, and brought me, use us here, in this place in th

The Measure of a Man

Not - How did he die? - How did He live?
Not - What did he gain? But - What did he give?
These are the things that measure the worth
Of a man as a man, regardless of birth.
Not - What was his station? But - had he a heart?
And - How did he play his God-given part?
Was he ever ready with a word of good cheer?
To bring back a smile, to banish a tear?
Not - What was his church? Not - What was his creed?
But - Had he befriended those really in need?
Not - What did the sketch in the newspaper say?
But - How many were sorry when he passed away?
These are the things that measure the worth
Of a man as a man, regardless of birth.

From: The Adam Conference 2012
Trinity Baptist Church, Columbus, OH

Love ya, T.A.B.

"UBUNTU"

Praying Together on Monday - 11/26/2012

Abba, today I thank you for your call upon the life you gave. All that I am have or will be is your gift to me. I offer this to you again, as we begin this the most challenging and demanding time of year, Advent.

First, Thank you for your desire to redeem us, when I think of what choices you had but chose to redeem us, I continue to be amazed that you would go to such lengths to save a fallen creation. Thank you for the babe of Bethlehem, but it isn't Your birth that saves, but Calvary and your death upon it, that redeems us.

Our schedules are filling up or are already full of appointments, worship services, etc., which stain our resources to the limits of our endurance. May I find time each day to seek you out, and spend time alone with you. I need you not only to preach, teach and lead, but so that I continue to be connected to you. Thank you for all the materials, resources, books, etc., I have to ‘get me ready,’ but more than any of these I need you! More than the ability to speak, teach and yes, write, I need a fresh relationship with you. So breath into me, pour your Spirit into this now empty vessel, that you chose to be the means of refreshing to a thirsty and hungry world. Even while we don’t know our own need, somehow, there are those who just like me, need you.
I’m no different than they, we are all in need of yourself. Especially in days like this.

Grant us peace, as we face not only today, but this and the weeks that follow. Thank you for the privilege you provide many of us who live and/or work among “the least of these.” Many of us are faced with not only the challenges of limited resources, but for those who have almost given up hoping and trying for a better life, and which makes this season of ‘giving’ so limiting. Help us, your servants to be salt and light in times of shortage, reduced funding, and limited resources. You are and have always been the source of provision, may we trust you and frankly, embrace you for the needs that are so real.

Thank you for enough. Like the widow of 1 Kings 17, what i don’t have is only matched by what you have. Thank you! Somehow may we see you in what little or even in the abundance. You are our source and supply, may I trust you with what we have and that which we don’t. Thank you for just enough for you to get the glory.

Comfort the hearts of these my brothers and sisters, that you continue to care not only about them, but that you stand with them, and you’re not far off. Thank you for strength for where I am, and for where we (you and I) are going. May my life be an example of a daily living, and vibrant faith, in the middle of hopeless and godless times and places.

Thank you for being yours! For what purpose I can’t always be sure, but I am by your choice, not even my own. I continue to believe to ‘ . . . see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.’ THANK YOU FOR HELP, HOPE AND VICTORY!!! In Jesus name I pray, AMEN!!!

Love ya, T.A.B.

"Ubuntu"

Praying Together On Monday 11/19/2012

Abba, today I thank you for these your children, these who have offered themselves to you and your service, those who have sacrificed and those who have shed tears as they are laboring for you in what seems to be an endless journey of limits, shortage, being misunderstood, and yes, overlooked. We serve at your pleasure, and hope you find pleasure in us. We didn't call ourselves, you called and we answered, often with loud, YES!!!  Only to find ourselves wanting, what we don't have, or being who we're not, and even here you are helping us become thankful for who we are. It is confusing, and I often don't 'get it???' "Why are you disquieted my soul . . ." Ps. 43:5. Thank you for your help and comfort. Thank you for creating me as you have. Thank you for working within me and never giving up on me. Thank you for resources I don't have or see, for help I don't know is around the corner or bend in the road. Thank you for those who are praying for me, and chose not to let me know they are.

Lord, I'm just a man, and I'm not always sure I know what you're up to or even how close you are to my and our situation. Thank you for this awareness that you are aware of my need and you are working to 'save me," as you did Peter as he sank beneath the waves. Thanks for being here, now, today and not far or distance from me.

I bless you for a goodness I don't deserve, a mercy I didn't expect and a grace that embraces me, even as I run away in moments of fear. Thank you for making me your own, and reminding me of your love for one just like me. I am a child, not a man, I am broken  but you're healing me, I am a sinner, but you've redeemed me; I am foolish, but you've made me wise, I am so needy, but you are filling every part of that need with your own self. Thank you for being present, in this moment, and for those moments I will face this week; for those I can't see coming and don't expect. Even there you are. Help me to trust you and depend so much upon myself, my ability, my intellect,

Jesus, I need you, and somehow you want me to a part of great and grand outcome I don't see understand or 'get.' Yet you call me to be you Son, Servant and partner in the redemption and renewal of this piece of the world. Lord, don't let me miss it, the thing you want and doing in this moment. I am so often wrong in so many things, but I love you and somehow I'm sure I make you laugh as I struggle, trying to 'figure out' how I am to do, what you know only what you can do. Thank you Jesus for loving me as you have, and continue too. You are an AMAZING GOD!!!

So I ask, what is it you want to do and accomplish this week, that I can't, even with my best effort? Where is that situation that is yes, frankly impossible without you hand being involved? Thank you for being more and more than enough! Thank you for a strength I don't have, for a faith that seems spent and not I'm empty. Could this be the place you wanted to bring me too. Where you are the Shepard  and I shall need of nothing???" Is this the valley of Baca (Ps. 84:6) where you make it a place of refreshing springs? I say thank you for that I can't see or understand, this place where I am confused and uncertain, where I 'feel' alone and without comfort, where the pain of the moment seems to be my only friend and companion. Yet, in that 'secret' place of my heart, I know You are here!" THANK you for the struggle, It is here that you draw me closer to yourself, and comfort my heart. I love you Abba, not just for what you do, but who you are. I bless you for blessing, I don't deserve or could earn, I honor you for your gift of salvation unearned and undeserved, for refreshing my spirit by the presence of the Holy Spirit in this moment, this day and this week, AMEN!!!

Love ya,
T.A.B.

If I have been forgiven by Jesus . . .

Why is it, we who have been forgiven so much, seem not to be able to forgive others?
Surely I’ve made mistakes, and fallen short of the grace that was given to me, yet Christ makes it clear that if I ask Him to forgive me, He will. I asked, He has. If I have received this, should I not do the same for others?

Thinking back, I may or may not know what it was that alienated us from each other, it may have been something I said, or foolishly did, it really doesn’t matter, if I could remember I’d gloss over it, or excuse myself. Whatever it is does matter, if you would then help me find that place and lovingly walk me through it so that we both can be healed.

I find the silence on this subject shocking. I find my own inability to give what I’ve received even more so. here is the truth, I have wounded several without knowing it, and yes, I have wounded others on purpose. For those I’ve wounded or hurt and didn’t know I was doing it, I ask your forgiveness. But I need to hear the words from you to know you’ve found grace in your heart to do it and say it. For those who I’ve hurt or wounded, offended, etc., on purpose, I ask for your forgiveness as well. Whether it was in anger, frustration or just plain stupidity, I did it in a moment when I allowed my selfishness to get the best of me, and I’m truly sorry. What may have hurt the most is that I wasn’t aware I was doing it, or just so stubborn in forging ahead anyway. I can’t be responsible for what others do or have done, I am responsible for me.

Too often I (we) look for reasons (excuses) for why we do or say the things we do, “ . . . my childhood was marred by unloving and non responsive parents; being born poor and in a racist society, caused me,  to etc.

If I have been forgiven by the blood Christ shed for someone like me, why is it I who have never spilled a single drop of blood for anyone, won’t do what Christ did for me and tells me to do (and frankly enables me to do) in John 15:9-12,  ‘ . . . love ye one another, as I have loved you. But “T,” I thought you were talking about forgiving? Yes I am and was. “If you love me keep my commandments,” Oh dear, there you go again Jesus, “Love one another, as I have loved you” John 13:34-35.  Yet all of the Scriptures in the book won’t have any affect, if I am unwilling to apply them to myself.

Father, I confess my sin of being unforgiving, I’ve held on too my anger, resentment and the pain on purpose and for far too long. I refuse to allow what you’ve done in and for me to be applied to those who have hurt and wounded me. Lord, frankly I’ve secretly hated them while you have loved me, and want to allow this love to be shared with these who judge me the worst of sinners. While I am just that, because I hold on to what you want and are willing to allow me to let go of, but I refuse to do so; forgive me as I embrace your forgiveness of these as well.

Thank you for the freedom your love and Spirit bring. The weight of my sin I can no longer bear, you have taken it and replaced it with your self in and by the Holy Spirit.  I thank you for your grace which uplifts my spirit anew. In the Name of Jesus I pray, AMEN!!!

Love ya, T.A.B.

"UBUNTU"

10 Reasons Pastors Leave the Ministry

Over 1,700 pastors leave the ministry every month. This staggering number includes some of the brightest, most inspiring pastors in the country. To prevent the continued flight of our pastors, we need to understand the cause of the problem. Though every situation is unique, the reasons pastors leave are often similar. Here are 10 common reasons pastors quit too soon.

1. Discouragement
Fifty percent of pastors report feeling so discouraged they would leave the ministry if they could. Complaints speak louder than compliments. You can receive 15 compliments and one complaint, and the complaint will stick. When you hear criticism and look out to see empty pews, it can be difficult to recognize the positive impact you’re making. The key is to remember: no matter how much negative you hear, you’re always doing 10 times more good.

2. Failure
Seventy percent of pastors say they have a lower self-image now than when they started. Many pastors have difficulty recognizing success. They compare themselves to other pastors and other ministries. Comparisons produce only two outcomes: (1) you think you’re better, which results in excessive pride, or (2) you feel like you don’t measure up, which creates a sense of failure. The key is not to compare, but to celebrate your successes.

3. Loneliness
Seventy percent of pastors do not have someone they consider a close friend. With so many people looking to pastors for guidance, it can be difficult for pastors to let their guards down. They don’t want to come across as less than perfect. They feel they can’t be transparent and vulnerable. That creates a sense of isolation. It’s important for pastors to find people they can open up and share their struggles with, instead of absorbing and isolating.

4. Moral Failure
Thirty-three percent of pastors confess having involved in inappropriate sexual behavior. The moral failures of pastors are magnified more than the average person. The key to avoiding moral failures is creating a system of risk prevention. When you meet with someone of the opposite sex: let your spouse know, never meet behind closed doors, and do not discuss relationship issues. For pornography, software is available to monitor or block Web activity.

5. Financial Pressure
Seventy percent of pastors feel grossly underpaid. Most ministries are nonprofits so pastors are not compensated well. When you can’t fully provide the life you want for your family, it makes it hard to continue. Then you look at friends not in the ministry with big houses and nice cars. Pastors can relieve the pressure with better financial planning. Try following the 80-10-10 rule – 10% to church, 10% to savings, and 80% to live off.

6. Anger
Each year, 4,000 new churches begin and 7,000 churches close. When things aren’t going well, pastors become angry – with others, themselves, or God. Thoughts fall along these lines: “I did everything you told me. I went to seminary. I started a ministry. Why are you not doing what you said?” The worst thing about anger is it spreads like wildfire. The medicine for anger is forgiveness. We have to forgive so we can move forward.

7. Burnout
Ninety percent of the pastors report working between 55 to 75 hours per week. Pastors are put on a treadmill. They go from the ministry to a hospital visit to writing a sermon to meeting with congregation members. They just keep running until there’s no passion or energy left. They become exhausted and depleted. Vacations and sabbaticals can provide perspective. Another key is empowering other leaders so all the weight is not on the pastor’s shoulders.

8. Physical Health
Seventy-five percent of pastors report significant stress-related crisis at least once in their ministry. Many pastors overwork themselves and simply do not care for their bodies. When you’re busy, it’s easy to eat poorly. But eating the right foods is essential to physical health. It’s the difference between fueling the body and depleting the body. Pastors also don’t get enough rest or regular exercise. Exercise makes a huge difference in physical and mental health.

9. Marriage/Family Problems
Eighty percent of pastors believe pastoral ministry has negatively affected their families. Too often, a pastor’s spouse and children end up taking a backseat to the ministry. The key is balance. Marriage has to be a top priority. Your relationship with your spouse is the most important relationship you have on this Earth. You have to nurture your family relationships – whether that means having family night or seeking counseling.

10. Too Busy/Driven
Ninety percent of pastors feel they are inadequately trained to cope with the ministry demands. A lot of pastors simply are not working efficiently. They are not protecting their calendars or giving themselves the space they need. They haven’t learned how to say “no.” Being busy is not always being productive. Pastors need to find ways to maximize the use of their time. You have to learn how to say “no” at the right times.

Take a look at these 10 points, then pray and ask God: What area do I really need to address? Where am I struggling? Once you identify the areas where you need to improve, take these three steps:

• Ask for help. If you’re struggling, there is absolutely nothing wrong with asking someone for help.
• Institute accountability. Find a group or person to keep you accountable in the areas you think you are weak.
• Take ownership of your choices. More than anyone else, you control the path you walk.
Take actions and precautions to make sure you don’t let any of these 10 reasons separate you from your passion for the ministry and your calling.
From a Post on FB by Jason Tyree 

Praying together - 11/12/2012

Abba, today we remember those who have served in our military, giving themselves in the service of our county and the cause of freedom around the world.  In saying ‘Thank You,’ we are trying to acknowledge the sacrifice they and others have made on our behalf. May we never forget.

But we thank you for those of your servants who like these in our military, serve in the Lord’s Army. That group of men and women in our cities, rural and foreign fields, where they are called to serve, often without notice by those of us who live in reasonable comfort here at home. Why even those of us who are suffering through the after-mass of ‘Sandy’ know that our present condition though difficult, will pass, and we hope soon, but would continue forever. These whose names we often don’t know sacrifice often without notice or praise, continue serving you with trusting hearts are in very real ‘foxholes and minefields.’ Grant that their hope and faith in you doesn't fail them in those moments when all seems lost or empty. Bless those whose whose support has taken a ‘nose dive’ through no fault or failure on their part. Thank you for the surprise you plan for them around the next bend in the road.

Thank you for your call on our lives, we didn't chose you, you chose us, Eph. 1:4), thank you for your Spirit alive and working in us for a far greater weight of glory then we can believe. Bless this week, with its open calendar, and questions as to what we are to do next. Strengthen our conviction of the call you gave us to be and then to do.

Bless our families who struggle with us, and serve without spoken complaint along side us; encourage their hearts with words of encouragement from unexpected sources. Grant us courage in the heat of battle, and often with those we serve along side with. Open my mind and heart to your Spirit’s leading in those private and personal places. May there be moments of reflection and comfort through your Word and Spirit, open me up to you in unexpected places and ways, I need you. Thank you for the unseen tears shed in the hidden places where no one sees or knows. Through them you bring me closer to yourself and for this I thank you.

I praise you now for victory I can’t create but fight for, a promise you've spoken long ago and you’re moving me into; for challenges that bring new strength and a victory that is certain, because you are in it and the source of it. Thank you now for your peace, which passes all understanding, from yourself and not what I have, resources I know about and people who could help if they wanted too. You Sovereign Lord are my and our victory, and in Your Name and power of your Spirit, we fight not to victory but from it! In Your Name we pray, AMEN!!!

Love ya, T.A.B.

"UBUNTU"

A prayer on Monday before the U.S. Election - 11/5/2012

Abba, today I thank you that you have allowed us to live in a county where we enjoy the freedom of electing those who will lead us. I pray that You will guide us as we vote. We have divided ourselves along several different lines, political, social, racial and economic. I get to choose who I think best represents what i see as a means to ‘fix’ the problems that face us all as a people and a nation. Somewhere in this ‘mix’ I forgot to ask you, “thy will be done, . . . ; on earth as it is in heaven.” So guide my thinking and direction as I select those that You know and want in these trying times.

Lord, not only do I need you, but our the county in which you have blessed me to live. Thank you for being concerned about not only me, and those who ‘think or feel’ as I do, but those who don’t as well. Their not my enemy, someone to be beaten and then destroyed; but my fellow citizens over which you are Lord as well. Once the polls are closed and someone is elected, my I bow my head in thanksgiving to and for your blessing for a process which leads to change without violence and bloodshed.

May I embrace those elected as Your choice, because the “powers that be are ordained of God.” Why have you selected these or those, I don't know, but You are God, and may I learn to breath and trust Your judgement, yes, even when I don’t like it, or think it best.

I thank you that “this world is not my home,” You’ve blessed me to be a part of a solution I don’t always understand. You place us in places of heartbreak and struggle; where wound are deep and memories are long. Where I wait for the chance to ‘get even,’ and refuse to hear Your Word, and say, “ . . . Father, forgive them.”

Our mission isn't to ‘change the world,’ but only my piece or part of it for your purpose and glory. To love those who don’t love themselves and don’t know how to love others. Help me to be You to them. You are all we really have. If I succeed and beat down my enemy, and those I’ve defeated, how different am I then those who have not your Spirit? Yes, Lord I want a different outcome, but you are in the one I have to deal with, grant me grace and peace, not only when the outcome is announced, not only to accept it, but to work within it for Your purpose.

Today I confess I don’t like suffering or means by which You bring or allow it. Thank you for the struggle to understand this purpose or reason You’ve allowed it. May I embrace you, my Lord, Savior and my God for the reason, and purpose You’ve chosen at this time and place.

Thank you for making me Your own, and walking me through even my ‘dark night of the soul,” because I know, “ . . . You are with me, Your rod and Your staff they comfort me, surly goodness and mercy shall follow me all the day of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” AMEN!!!