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Dr. Steve Guy and I with Miss Gloria in Jamaica It’s easy to understand why people are anxious to move beyond 2008. I share this from a very personal standpoint in the loss of dear friends and Ginghamsburg church leaders due to illness and death. The economic meltdown has had severe consequences in the Dayton community, devastating 401k’s, and leaving economic experts uttering the unthinkable: “depression.” On this last day of the year, I find myself thanking God for his goodness and for all the ways he has demonstrated his love and faithfulness in ’08. In spite of the circumstances, God’s promises and faithfulness stand eternal. The faithfulness of God shines like light in darkness through his people who faithfully and sacrificially live daily by his promises. These are just a few of the stories where I have seen the powerful hand of God during the last year. Where have you seen the goodness of God in 2008? God bless…
Posted By: Pastor Mike Slaughter on Dec 31, 2008 10:00AM
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This has been such a difficult year but God has blessed me in more ways than I can count. I know I keep mentioning this but my dad was only given 3 to 6 months to live in March of 07. He passed away last November. He was 82, frail and kept fighting. What a blessing it was to have him for those 14 extra months. My mother is 78, maybe weighs 120 on a good day soaking wet. She cared for my dad 24/7 and because of that he was able to be at home until his last moments on this earth. Another incredible blessing that God has granted such strength to her. I have seen so many acts of kindness this year. What a gift to work for a company who allowed me to spend so much time with my daddy. They are a Christian company, the owner and his son are always sending e-mails that urge us all in a Christian walk. I don't see them much since I don't work at the home office but they have followed my fathers illness and let it be known several times they continue to support me. What a blessing that God would put me with such a company so I could spend so much time with daddy. The first week of November I went to Spring Hill Nursery. I wanted to get some daffodil bulbs for my mother. More...I asked if they had a box and explained my mom wanted some daffodil bulbs to plant but couldn't leave the house long enough to get them because she was caring for my dad so I wanted to send her some but needed to get a box, the cashier said they had some more bulbs on sale out in the greenhouse and in the meantime she would look for a box. When I returned she had filled the box completely full of bulbs for my mom for free, she didn't know me, what a sweet gesture of kindness. There was a man who washed my mom's house for free this past year, he was supposed to come by and quote her a price but instead he said his church was asking everyone to do an act of kindness and that week, washing her house for free was his. These acts of kindness from strangers I know were from God, they simply were overwhelming for my mom. She's needed the kindness of strangers desperately this year. The last year has been just filled with these kind of little treasures for my family or my son or at times even me. More than I can list and more than I can even remember I'm sure. Today I was on my way home from Georgia and it rained from Corbin Ky to Lexington especially bad. At one time it rained really really really hard. The visibility was next to nothing. I was going 60 in a 70 mph zone in the slow lane. Most people had slowed down but every once in a while there would be someone blazing by and passing everyone. I had taken my aunt on this trip to spend time with my mother. The roads were really busy and I told my aunt the problem with the people who were going so fast was if they lost control they were going to take alot of others out with them. Just a few minutes later a car came out of nowhere. I'm still not sure where he came from but I think he was going south and crossed the medium. Mud was just raining from where he was spinning across the medium and when I saw him the mud was hitting my car all over and I could see him spinning around and sliding sideways right for my car. I managed to pull to the right onto the brim and kept going and I swear I don't know how he missed me. When I looked into my rear view mirror he was still spinning over the brim and into the hill. I don't know how he kept from hitting me or anyone else. I didn't stop, I didn't think of it at first. I was so shaking. The last thing I remember seeing was the two doors on the driver side of a big black vehicle that were sliding right towards the front of my car, that car looked like it would hit mine any second. It had to be a God thing. What a blessing that driver didn't just miss me,but missed everyone. What a miracle. Another big blessing was in December, a lady I know told me her 18 year old daughter was pregnant, she told me she herself had an abortion when she was a teenager and never regretted it but asked me if I would pray for her daughters decision because she was scheduled for an abortion the very next day. The daughter decided to keep the baby and both the mother and daughter were actually happy and are excited about the baby. How wonderful is that! Finally I have to say it's a blessing to belong to a church that bears fruit. I think there is such evidence at GUM that God is alive and well. I've lost my dad this year, I've lost a big part of my retirement savings, and in March of 2010 my program is moving out of state and I could be out of work. But I see Gods hand all around me. I'm so blessed. God is really good, all the time.
Posted By: suzanne on Jan 04, 2009 11:00PM
Hi Suzanne. We were coming through that same stretch of highway yesterday afternoon in that storm and saw at least four cars that had spun off the road. It was really good to see Jake on Christmas Eve.
Posted By: mike on Jan 05, 2009 08:36AM
I don't know you, Suzanne, but your story touched my heart deeply!! Thank you for sharing!! God bless you!!
Posted By: Barb Thase on Jan 05, 2009 10:25AM
GM plant workers in Dayton head to work for the last time The last General Motors plant will close its doors in Dayton today ending almost a 100-year legacy in this city. This community has lost 26,000 automotive jobs since the early 2000’s. I was reminded in my devotional reading this morning that God goes before us and stands behind us when we face seemingly insurmountable challenges. When the Egyptian army had Israel trapped at the Red Sea, Moses reminded the people of this simple truth. “Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Egyptians you see today you will never see again. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” The great reality of Christmas is that God has given us a sign. “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and will call him Immanuel (God with Us)!” The most recent water yard built by The Sudan Project in Darfur I never cease to be amazed by the great faith demonstrated through the people of Ginghamsburg Church. In spite of the challenging economic times, you are contributing yet again hundreds of thousand of dollars for the victims of a senseless tragedy in Darfur. You are participating in the miraculous resurrection of Fort McKinley Church in an economically challenged part of the city. I preached there two times Sunday morning. It is amazing to witness this miracle of God! I want to thank you for your demonstration of faithfulness and wish you a peaceful and joyful Christmas season! God bless…
Posted By: Pastor Mike Slaughter on Dec 23, 2008 10:00AM
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Mike,
Posted By: Barb Thase on Dec 23, 2008 03:31PM
Remaining faithful is a privilege. I heard that the importance of putting 80% of investments one has left into a FDIC-insured bank (up to 250,000) per bank and the other 20% in gold coins. I figured most know this but I thought I would just say it as people are losing their 401's etc. and it was said in March of 2007, but not too many started doing it until just recently. They wanted confirmation and unfortunately the confirmation came in the form of the reality of the situation happening that caused it. It's not to make people hold on to their money, but I say it so people will have money to give to God's work for as long as possible in the form of finacial. Also that they hopefully have something to eat when they retire. michaiah
Posted By: MBC on Dec 23, 2008 07:06PM
My husband Ken has been laid-off twice in our 20-years together and it was difficult both times. We were young and didn't really know what to do in many ways. We always had food to eat, a roof over our heads, and clothes on our backs, but it was hard to learn to rely on God from day to day and hour by hour, but we learned that we had so much more than we thought. We are so truly blessed in this country with material things.
Posted By: MBC on Dec 24, 2008 02:08AM
Merry Christmas eveyone. God bless you all in the New Year.
Posted By: Lisa Sowry on Dec 25, 2008 02:10PM
Mike
Posted By: Steve Guy on Dec 26, 2008 08:15AM
Kids handing me a check yesterday On Monday the students at Bethel Elementary School presented me with a check for the Sudan for $3,285.33. Amanda Luke is a second grade teacher at Bethel who spearheaded the initiative. I have lost count of the number of schools that we have spoken to over the last four years who have participated in the program. Literally thousands of students have been involved in some way. A man walked into the North College Hill High School office in Cincinnati this week with a sealed white envelope. “I want to give this in the name of Jesus for the children of Darfur.” He left the envelope on the counter and walked out without leaving his name. It contained five $100 bills. Not only have thousands of lives been touched in Darfur through the The Sudan Project started by Ginghamsburg Church, thousands of lives have been touched here in the U.S. as a result of their participation. Mr. Cohen, a business owner from Michigan, drove to Tipp City for the Sudan weekend. As soon as he got home, he could hardly contain his enthusiasm as he told his Rabbi about his involvement with Ginghamsburg in this project. We asked a group of people to share how The Sudan Project has changed them. Here is what they had to say (Sudan interview video). I would love to hear how our involvement in the Sudan has changed you! Speaking with the students about the Sudan In this precarious economic time it is tempting for the people of God to pull back and worry about local church finances and forget about the radical call of Jesus to meet the needs of the least of these in our own communities and throughout the world. When we focus on the real business of Jesus in the world, Jesus will meet the needs of the local church. God bless...
Posted By: Pastor Mike Slaughter on Dec 16, 2008 10:00AM
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From the time a was a child, the emphasis at Christmas has always been about giving to others. Since the Darfur project I have feel it even more.
I am trusting God to help me economically to help others.
Posted By: Missy D on Dec 16, 2008 02:39PM
Well, I only bought a T-Shirt, but I love it. It is really good quality material and I feel good wearing it knowing people might become involved by my marketing.
Posted By: EC on Dec 16, 2008 02:59PM
Dear Mike You always speak directly to Dale & me in your weekly messages but last weeks' message, "the gift with a cost" touched our hearts in a special way. Our family celebrates an African Christmas each year & has been so blessed. We appreciate your faithfulness, your vision & your passion for all the people of the world. We support you as you continue to stir us to action. Grateful for your leadership & service. Mary Alice
Posted By: Mary Alice Smith on Dec 16, 2008 07:09PM
This is the first year my family and I will participate in the miracle offering for Darfur here at Ginghamsburg. We are extremely blessed to have our eyes enlightened to the need and how God has blessed us in order that we might be a blessing in Darfur and in other places. It is no small gift to receive the challenging yet freeing and anointed messages given by Mike at Ginghamsburg Church. I have been preparing our children for the shift in giving this Christmas since August. Slowly but surely they have begun to understand. My 12 year old daughter went out with four other gymnasts two weekends ago and bought a gift for a child whose mother is incarcerated. She decided to use her own savings. This weekend, my wife, son, and I had an amazing conversation about Darfur and the sin of indifference.
Posted By: Brian Brown on Dec 17, 2008 09:30AM
Pastor Mike that was one of your best sermons. I can no longer attend Gum as I live in Georgia. But I usher when I am in town as I love serving the Lord. I also listen to your semons online. I want a Jesus Christmas, where he came from and what he stands for. I do not wear a tie where I attend church. They ask me why I am not wearing a tie, I tell the people that I can not wash feet wearing a tie. And as for your handicap, you will be ONE UNDER THE LORD'S CARE.
Posted By: Craig Bruntz on Dec 17, 2008 01:50PM
Brian-your post made me reflect back to 2004 when Mike first shared his God vision with us. What an exciting time it was then and still is today. I could feel the excitement in your words and it is awesome your kids are understanding the real meaning of "the least of these" at such a young age.
Posted By: Jay on Dec 17, 2008 09:56PM
Mike & GUM leadership,
Posted By: EC on Dec 18, 2008 01:36AM
I wanted to further clarify the above request. I am referring to those who profess and follow Christ and have for some time. My question is specifically you belief and stance concerning them. Thank You
Posted By: EC on Dec 18, 2008 01:38AM
Mike,
Posted By: Michaiah Browning-Combs on Dec 18, 2008 05:09AM
As you often do Mike, you challenged me to think...I have been studying and praying about if I have the sin of indifference in my life. I am aware of the hunger in the world, as well as the possible hunger of my neighbor, the abuse of our precious earth, the robbing of the natural resources, the killing the unborn child, makes me very sad indeed. When I turn on my facet to get a drink it triggers the guilt that someplace in the world there is the lack of clean drinkiing water, and people have died because of it. You spoke about the "Advent conspiracy, the movement to remove the consumerism from Christmas, I am in favor of that. I do not want to have spiritual apathy, I do not want to be blind to suffering in the world. It is in the blindness that the devil tempts us. We need people like you to remind us that indifference is death, the enemy would like nothing better. This reminds me of Jesus agonizing in the garden, and when He rose from prayer, He found the disciples sleeping, "exhausted from sorrow." The disciples was suffering from indifference. He told them to get up and pray so that you will not fall into temptation. I don't want to be asleep with the spiritual apathy, I want to be wide awake to His passion and calling. I know my Father understands my stuggle, and that He will forgive me of my sin, because it is He who suffered for my wrong thinking. More...Yes, I fear the effects of my sin but I will live with the confidence of hope for my continued passion for Christ and his love. I also believe that to cease to have hope in the salvation is offensive to God. A dear friend, who passed to the kingdom this summer reminded you and I of this, "As you've (meaning Mike) taught before, Our life is but a dash- Our life in heaven is for Eternity! We need to live each day with that certainty in our HOPE. (Hebrews 11:1) For our HOPE in the future gives POWER in the PRESENT". In your sermon you said "the message of Christmas is the gift of sacrificial cause.." The sacrifical cause was one of hope, love and forgiveness. The love is agape love, it is a love without conditions. The cause is one of acceptance, Jesus told the disciples to get up and pray. He did not critize them for their indifference, "so that you will not fall into temptation." He understood that they would be tempted. He accepted this, and encouraged them to pray. I feel the biggest travesty in in my life would be that I would not understand the sacrificial love of God, as John 3:16-17 says. The amazing agape love of a Father to His Son. It has no conditions, the God who sent His Son to love the world,not to condemn those that believe in Him, but to give them hope and life. For me and my family, Christmas is a celebration of hope and love. I think of how Mary felt when she gazed down upon the wee baby in the manger, and knew that, his sacificial life would save the broken world.
Posted By: drs on Dec 18, 2008 10:54AM
EC - For some unknown reason you brought into this discussion a request for Mike to clarify his views and judgement aboubt homosexuals. That tangent usually produces a separate string of responses.
Posted By: Scott Parsons on Dec 18, 2008 05:30PM
How do we get from the Sudan to homosexuality? It would be nice to stay on topic especially during the Xmas season. “Xmas” - look it up, it has religious roots. For those who want to write the sermons; here’s a suggestion, buy some books, get an education, then go out and get your own church.
Posted By: Rich B on Dec 18, 2008 06:50PM
hi mike - i've been changed for sure, and it's changed our home environment. we want to be sure we don't get too far from the central focus of the season. i've stepped out and decorated for an alternative christmas this year - photos posted at www.redesigningworship.blogspot.com. may all God's children be blessed this christmas!
Posted By: kim on Dec 18, 2008 08:33PM
Dear Scott,
Posted By: EC on Dec 18, 2008 09:08PM
Rich B.
Posted By: EC on Dec 18, 2008 09:16PM
Feeding the poor which is absolutely critical doesn't make other scripural priorities go away.
Posted By: EC on Dec 18, 2008 09:25PM
Since some are offended by me asking a legitamate question on this blog topic, I looked for one that was more topical. I'll list it on the one where mike briefly touches on the subject of homosexuality and the church. No offense intended.
Posted By: EC on Dec 18, 2008 10:55PM
Changing Sudan, Changing Us posted on 12/16/08 by Mike Slaughter seems to me deserves at least the consideration of participants to stay on topic. If you insist on making a comment on homosexuality, abortion, Catholics, politics, cheating on a spouse – whatever, just go back to that topic from another original post. It’s all there and I’m sure he’ll see there was a hit and read it. Being controversial to attract attention to me is unproductive. This isn’t a top 40 radio station where you call in and request a song to be played. I’d imagine preparing a sermon requires deep thoughts and a spiritual evaluation of ones beliefs. This is not the season to be sanctimonious.
Posted By: Rich B on Dec 18, 2008 10:59PM
I can remember when I was really changed by Sudan. I connected with the mission from the first day, but when it became real to me, was at one of the first receptions we had, to see what was being accomplished. I remember seeing kids playing, coming out of the school smiling. I thought I would see starving, dying kids...misery. The simple fact of those happy kids hit me so hard. It took so little. Mike asked us how we felt after watching that presentation, and I couldn't speak without crying so wrote him later. But I wasn't feeling happy about our success, I was feeling embarrassed. This wasn't a "sacrifice" of a few Christmas presents, this was our duty. How could I have thought I was sacrificing anything is what I was thinking....I was repentant. Even as I'm writing this, I'm thinking about (and repenting) how stingy I have been feeling, because of fear. My husbands work doesn't have any jobs lined up and are almost finished with the one they are on. I work, but have cut down on clients because of physical problems, and damage done over the years. I've used a huge chunk of my savings account with mission trips in the last year, plus had to buy 3 large appliances that were dying. I'm feeling the panic of seeing those numbers in that account drain out. More...And after writing this...remembering and looking back at the Lord's faithfulness...about how I felt after that first report of what UMCOR was accomplishing, those happy kids playing like....kids, I think, if God want's it all, so what. I do understand the fatique of giving. I wonder if God could say He might feel the same way at times....He gives and gives and gives, with little return as far as his own family goes. It's high time His family gave Him a Merry Christmas. Happy Birthday Jesus!
Posted By: Lisa Sowry on Dec 19, 2008 07:52AM
Dear Mike, I was saddened by the message from the person who was looking for a "Traditonal Christmas." Three years ago I witnessed a true Christmas miracle when our home group was asked to shop for the household items that would be needed for a refugee family coming to Dayton just the week before Christmas. They came with almost nothing but the clothes on their backs.
Posted By: Kathy Ishmael on Dec 19, 2008 10:04AM
To EC: I am replying on behalf of the Ginghamsburg leadership team in regards to your question. At Ginghamsburg, we believe that every person is important to God. We always welcome to our worship celebrations, activities and church community anyone who is seeking a life-saving relationship with Jesus, no matter what their orientation. Of course, as a United Methodist Church, we also affirm and follow UMC church policy as reflected in The Book of Discipline, the rules/policies book for all United Methodist churches. If you would like to learn more about United Methodist practices/beliefs in this or any area, you are welcome to explore the website umc.org and search on the word "homosexuality" for available information. Since the original question is unrelated to the blog, if you have additional questions, please call the church at 937.667.1069 or contact the denomination-provided InfoServ staff (contact info available at umc.org). Thank you.
Posted By: Karen Smith - Ginghamsburg Church on Dec 19, 2008 11:14AM
Thank you Karen,
Posted By: EC on Dec 19, 2008 12:08PM
Rich B.,
Posted By: EC on Dec 19, 2008 12:22PM
Forgive me all. I'm a little slow.
Posted By: EC on Dec 19, 2008 04:49PM
I can't say I have given any great enormous amount to the Sudan project but what I have been able to give, well, I guess it's like I asked Jesus what HE wanted for Christmas and then I gave him just what he asked for. I think through the Sudan offering it's helped me feel a little closer in my walk as well as a little closer to the person I want to be. I don't have big Christmas's with alot of presents but what is given is a lot more thoughtful.
Posted By: Suzanne on Dec 19, 2008 08:04PM
God has used the faith of a child to make me see the reality of Christmas. My 2 youngest children now ages 10 and 11 were orphans in their early life and they know first hand what it is like to be without. This is the second year they have wanted to particpate in the Sudan Bazaar. I was sick this year and didn't think we would be able to attend. It was so important to them they called my friend to take my place. We talk all year long about the children of the Sudan and the difficulties they face. They wear their Simply Live t-shirts to school and talk about it. Unlike most children my kids have not handed me any Christmas lists or have asked for any toys. The biggest impact was when my (very wealthy) father called and asked my 10 year old son what he wanted for Christmas this year and he replied so matter of fact "Nothing, it's not MY BIRTHDAY!"
Posted By: Jennie on Dec 21, 2008 01:34PM
Pastor Mike - It was a pleasure listening to Pastor Brian's sermon yesterday (12/21). What I like about Pastor Brian is his ability to integrate the foundation of the Bible with his true life experiences from his past. He is a true asset to the Ginghamsburg family. Hopefully, he will have the opportunity to preach again very soon.
Posted By: Pep on Dec 22, 2008 08:30AM
Mike, I read this and thought "Oh, this will be easy" and then sat to write it down, and well, it isn't as easy as I thought to put into words what impact this has had on my family. Four years ago, when I told the kids that I was going to give half of their Christmas to the people of Darfur, they were a little distraught and I was afraid that I it would become a real sore spot. But as they (we) listened each week about what was going to happen with our collective gifts, I saw them sit up a little straighter and since that first Christmas, there have been no complaints. I have been amazed by the great family discussions it has enabled and the maturity that peeks out from my otherwise typical teenagers. I can say that it has sparked a great transformation in both of them (actually all of us) and sitting around doing the advent candle as a family and talking about the Sudan has created great, long chesishable family memories. I am still awed by what God has been able to do through one picture in a newspaper...
Merry Christmas and God Bless!
Posted By: Todd on Dec 22, 2008 09:43AM
Hi Mike,
Posted By: Ken & Cledith on Dec 22, 2008 09:55PM
I don't worry about the Sudan offering. The miracle isn't produced by Ginghamsburg, or by Mike. Mike's job was to communicate God's heart to us, and God's job is to change our own so that we could feel what He feels, see what He sees, and do what He willed us to do. I love Christmas songs to, and hope we don't exclude them. Jesus is the entire reason we are doing what we do. But the miracle doesn't depend on how many people show up...it depends on God, and his ability to restore our first love, which produces that fiery passion, which fuels our desire to be His hands and feet in the world. Isn't that what birthdays are about? Celebrating the life of one's you love, showing gratitude for the gift they are to you, by giving them a token gift from the heart. May Jesus be lifted up this Christmas, and all through the year.
Posted By: Lisa Sowry on Dec 23, 2008 08:26AM
(Left to Right: Dismas, Abdenraheim, Sashi and Mike) We celebrated the second weekend in Advent with three of our African staff from Darfur, Dismas, Abdenraheim and Sashi; Sam Dixon and Thomas Dwyer from UMCOR in New York City; and music recording artist Jim Cole from Nashville. It is hard to believe that we are in the fifth Christmas of The Sudan Project. Much has been accomplished since we opened the first office in Darfur with UMCOR in February of 2005. A sustainable agricultural project that began with 5209 families in ‘05 trained and provided seeds and tools for an additional 1700 families in 2008. 149 schools have been constructed in the last two and a half years, and 190 teachers trained. Our safe water projects are progressing and have created new life in a place of devastation. Deriga village had been burned to the ground by Janjaweed. Village elders asked UMCOR to drill a new water hole, which would bring back people to rebuild the town that had originally claimed a population in the neighborhood of 2000. Ginghamsburg partnered with UMCOR and began to drill in May 2008. By the end of the month, 5000 people had moved to the location around this new oasis of life. We immediately went to work on two permanent classroom facilities to support the educational needs of the children who came with their families. Now there are 12,000 people living in this resurrected village, and we began building 2 more permanent class facilities just four weeks ago. We have also initiated the agricultural program in this village. The people are calling the new village “Ohio Town” because 100% of the contributions for the resurrection project came from the 2007 Christmas Miracle offering. When Jesus announced his mission as the Messiah in his hometown synagogue, he read from Isaiah 61. “The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners….” Yes, light has invaded darkness and darkness can never put it out! I encourage you all to continue to serve the true reason for the season and to find ways to live more simply that others may simply live. I would even love to hear how you are celebrating Jesus’ birth in simple serving ways. Music artist and Sudan partner Jim Cole has produced a new CD called THE ACOUSTIC HYMNS PROJECT. He has given the reproduction and distribution rights to Ginghamsburg so that all proceeds will go to The Sudan Project. The CD includes classic hymns done in a contemporary way. (Listen to “Shall We Gather At the River” available on the CD.) Also, the CD includes an original song by Jim written for Darfur. (Watch the “Hymn for Darfur” music video.) The CD is $15, and you can purchase one at the Ginghamsburg e-store or at the Ginghamsburg bookstore on the Main Campus. Another way that you can support The Sudan Project while sharing the call to live more simply with others is through Change the World t-shirts, also available on the e-store. As with Jim’s CD, shirt proceeds benefit the work in Darfur. Both of these items make simple Christmas gifts as you also partner with us toward accomplishing God’s miracle in Darfur. If you would simply like to contribute a financial gift to The Sudan Project, please click here. God bless...
Posted By: Pastor Mike Slaughter on Dec 10, 2008 10:00AM
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Hey Mike,
Posted By: Erica on Dec 11, 2008 07:07PM
God bless you Erica and have a great Christmas!
Posted By: Mike on Dec 11, 2008 07:23PM
I've been sharing the significance of Christ's birth to those around me by be by purposefully focusing on their needs and some wants. Seeking to ease their burdens so they do not become discouraged about the difficulties of life. Encouraging is a big part of what I want to become better at. To notice when those around me are feeling down or overwhelmed for various reasons, gives me opportunity to encourage them in their own language by doing something for them that has value to them or that gives them a sense of being cared for. Forgiveness is another way I am celebrating Jesus. That really goes a long way in freeing my spirit to just be love to people.
Posted By: EC on Dec 12, 2008 12:42AM
I don't want to be negative or disturbing but the Lord just kept impressing upon me that there is a plan for the destruction of all the work you've done in Darfur. A serious threat. I am personally going to be in prayer and ask any skilled in warfare to be in prayer for God to confuse the plans of those involved whether it be their government or others etc. I'm sure you guys cleared out the place of goonies when you went to work there but they are working on those against your project.
Posted By: EC on Dec 13, 2008 03:36AM
When you asked us today in worship to post how we've simplified Christmas, I really wasn't how to answer that. Since the start of the Sudan Project, my husband and I have definitely made changes during the holidays so that our focus is more on others than ourselves, but I wasn't sure that I could put my finger on something concrete.
Posted By: Angie on Dec 14, 2008 07:14PM
How has our Christmas changed since the Sudan Project?
Posted By: Sue Riley on Dec 14, 2008 08:20PM
“The World Is My Parish” – John Wesley
Posted By: Anonymous on Dec 14, 2008 11:06PM
I want to share how Christmas has changed since the Sudan project started. "It's not your birthday" has been my main focus for the past 3 Christmas'. It's not about us but about Him, Jesus Christ, and the gift of giving and sharing God's love. The "live simply, so others may simply live" is a motto our family lives by, every day....not just at Christmas. This year my family has adopted two families, we have made several donations to different organizations, we were faithful servants involved in Operation Christmas, the Sudan Christmas bazaar and with Hoopa Holiday at Ginghamsburg. My daughter participated in the Samaritan Purse and we have given unconditionally to the Sudaneese and some charities close to home. It's all about helping others with not just their wants but their needs. It's also about donating your time to make a difference and spreading the word. We are the hands and feet of Jesus and I think the Sudan Project has brought that to light for so many. Thank you Mike and thank you Jesus!!
Posted By: R on Dec 15, 2008 02:05PM
Mike,
Posted By: Barb Thase on Dec 23, 2008 04:16PM
Typical crowd scene as stores open on Black Friday A 34-year-old Wal-Mart employee was killed and a 28-year-old pregnant woman was taken to the hospital as the result of a consumer frenzied stampede last Friday in Long Island, New York. Yes, Virginia, the world does need a Savior! American consumerism has reached a new low. We call it by many names and even frame Christmas spending in the guise of “patriotic duty.” Christmas has become a hedonistic feast of materialistic gluttony. It seems like the sobering economic events of late would have jolted debt-laden Americans into the reality of misdirected values and priorities. The prophet Isaiah spoke centuries ago to the only solution for this chaotic time: “The people walking in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in darkness a light has dawned… For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there will be no end” (Isa. 9:2,6-7). Jesus came to establish the Kingdom of God (God’s authority, values and priorities) on earth. All who recognize Jesus’ government (authority) demonstrate the counter-culture values of the Kingdom of God. As followers of Jesus we must walk in the road less traveled. The English Reformed Baptist preacher, Charles Spurgeon, wrote addressing this passage in 1893: “We want converts who know this Christ, men and women to whom he is ‘Wonderful.’ To whom he has become ‘The Counselor.’ We want no additions to the church of those who cannot call him the ‘Mighty God, the Everlasting Father.’ We want men and women to whom Christ has become ‘the Prince of Peace’.” As counselees of the “Wonderful Counselor” let us consider how to live and spend more simply this Christmas and find our meaning and value in Him! God bless...
Posted By: Pastor Mike Slaughter on Dec 01, 2008 10:00AM
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Amen pastor Mike! I agree whole heartedly. Why can't we be happy for what we have, and cellibrate Christmas the way it is supposed to be...the birth of our savior Jesus. When my kids were growing up, before we opened what pressents we had, we would bring out a cake and sing "Happy Birthday" to Jesus. I want to continue to do this every year. Nancy T.
Posted By: Nancy Teague on Dec 01, 2008 09:42PM
…I took the one less traveled by, and that made all the difference – Robert Frost from The Road Not Taken.
Posted By: Rich B on Dec 03, 2008 11:02PM
God bless you Rich. I am thankful that your son is ok!
Posted By: mike on Dec 04, 2008 04:56AM
Thank you Mike!
Posted By: Rich B on Dec 04, 2008 08:10AM
This terriable incident shows so profoundly of the lack of caring and loving more for our neighbors than ourselves by a vast number of people,who so need Jesus.
Posted By: Mari on Dec 05, 2008 08:55PM
I wish God's people would refuse to shop black Friday's so the retailers would also start to get the message. They stock 3-4 of a popular item and create stampedes in the door to get it. I realize it's our choice to participate...but the retailers have a part in it also. Believers need to protest that whole godless tradition by refusing to shop black friday, and letting the store know we won't be there. I haven't shopped one in years, I just refuse. People fighting, screaming at each other for parking places...it's just ate up.
Posted By: Lisa S on Dec 08, 2008 11:55AM
I was reading about Nehemiah recently and although this topic isn't directly related, there is a principle in it.
Posted By: EC on Dec 09, 2008 05:56AM
Good points EC. Plus you keep talking and spreading your wisdom, because there are many that will hear and act on what you say and more importly do. God Bless you Pastor Mike, Staff and Ginghamsburg Family. Merry CHRISTmas!!
Posted By: Gary Simmons on Dec 09, 2008 12:00PM
Thank you Gary. Your words mean a lot and give me great encouragement.
Posted By: EC on Dec 09, 2008 03:33PM
EC. Jesus was not a celebrity and look what he did. You need to just follow Jesus and do what he leads you to do. Jesus knows your heart so let him guide you. And Pray, Pray, Pray as there is power in prayer.
Posted By: Craig Bruntz on Dec 10, 2008 02:56PM
I suppose He wasn't a celeb to those who didn't know Him, but it wasn't everyday any of the people living in that time or any since saw the kind of stuff He did. Maybe He was a celebrity, but one that some wanted to kill. Sorta like an outlaw. Only a righteous one. He's certainly a celebrity today. How many actually haven't heard of Him? Probably less than more. Being a true celebrity doesn't look like we think it will or be what we think it would.
Posted By: EC on Dec 10, 2008 05:22PM
I don't know where we picked this up as a culture, but the consumerism in people today, even God's people, is deeper than knowing the right values. I think if you ask a majority of Christians in heavy consumer non-secured debt they know what they got themselves into was counter to God's preferred plan with our stewardship; however, for some reason people are creatures of habit, and unfortunately the routine of instant gratification has become more favorable and a higher value has been placed on materialism thank on individual's belief systems.
Posted By: GDN on Dec 12, 2008 10:17PM
Your post was thoughtful, GDN. As someone who has about 12,000-18,000 in unsecured debt, I am in a position ot be corrected. You're right. I have learned something though.
Posted By: EC on Dec 13, 2008 03:26AM
I believe we are back in the OT in Deuteronomy 6: 1-12, we have been given a great deal and we have forgotten to love the Creator and Belssings have overtaken the one who blesses.
Posted By: Ronnie on Dec 16, 2008 01:12PM
To Judge v.t. to hear (a case) and pronounce sentence //
Posted By: EC on Dec 16, 2008 03:13PM
Chuck and Sue Kibbey On Monday we celebrated the resurrection and eternal healing of my friend and Pastor Sue’s husband, Chuck Kibbey. Chuck had been in the Ohio Sate University Hospital for 36 days and wanted to make it home to spend his last hours on earth. A week ago Tuesday they carried him in the front door and laid him in the bed that Sue had set up in their living room. He grabbed her hand and in a weak voice said, “Sue, we are so blessed. We are just really blessed!” It was Chuck’s last moments of clarity. In the spirit of my good friend Chuck and in this season of Thanksgiving, I want to name the blessings of God’s abundant goodness in 2008.
We are so blessed! Have a great Thanksgiving!
Posted By: Pastor Mike Slaughter on Nov 26, 2008 10:00AM
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Mike,
Posted By: David Alexander on Nov 26, 2008 11:34AM
God bless Mike, and Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours. I love to see a true "love story" and this is how I perceive the relationship between Sue and Chuck! What a God inspired blessing! And it happened right in our midst. I know that love can grow, in the most unlikely places, if God has a hand in it, it will be done. God be with you, Sue.
Posted By: drs on Nov 26, 2008 01:51PM
Mike,
Posted By: Juan H. on Nov 26, 2008 06:01PM
My family and I have been a member of the Ginghamsburg family for about three months. We have experienced the love, commitment, service, and deep faith of our Lord and savior that flows from his servants here and are truly thankful to be with you.
Posted By: Brian Brown on Nov 27, 2008 08:30AM
Happy Thanksgiving everyone...I'm thankful for all of you who broaden my experience of who God is. I look forward to learning and growing more in the new year with you all. I feel blessed to be in a church that loves Jesus Christ and expresses that love not just through faith but through deeds as well. They put their money where their mouth is. To me, that kind of puts the legs on true heart gratitude for what Jesus Christ has done for us. I'm honored to serve with you all.
Posted By: Lisa Sowry on Nov 27, 2008 11:13AM
This year has been an absolute flourish of God's work in my life. From meeting Sue in a Seminary class in February and beginning the discussion about joining the Ginghamsburg team, to my interview with Mike in April, Graduating from Seminary in May, being commissioned as a probationary Elder in June, joining the Ginghamsburg team in August, meeting with the Young Pastor's Network in October, and starting a second service at Fort McKinley in November.
Posted By: DaveH on Nov 28, 2008 06:37PM
I met Chuck about 9 years ago in singles ministry. He was among a few people that helped me feel good again after my divorce after 16 years of marriage. I learned as a single that there was many gifts I could give to others. I remember when Sue and Chuck started to date. They have been an example to many of us that there can be a second chance in finding a Christian soul mate. Dec 14th Bud and I will be married 5 years. I am so pleased that Chuck was able to get home and receive Hospice care. It is such a precious time. I told Sue that it is a gift that you give your loved one to keep them at home in their last days. Hospice staff gives the gift of comfort and peace to their patients and families. There are those times that Hospice patients and families are a gift to the Hospice staff as well. I Just know that Chuck and Sue was one of those families. I am thankful this year for the opportunity to have known Chuck in this short life on earth. I am also grateful for my work as a Hospice nurse. I am blessed daily.
Posted By: Debbie Slife on Nov 29, 2008 07:15AM
My heart and thoughts go out to Sue. I didn't know her personally but you can't help but hear about her in the church and it's evident she is highly thought of.
God is good........all the time.
Posted By: Suzanne on Nov 29, 2008 08:24AM
Then the angel said to me, "Write: 'Blessed are those who are invited to the wedding supper of the Lamb!' “And he added, "These are the true words of God." Revelation 19:9
Posted By: Rich B on Dec 01, 2008 04:21PM
Chuck was my friend and he was one the strongest men I knew, STRONG IN FAITH. He was a true Marine and God needed a Marine in heaven. I will truely miss my friend but I know he is very happy today with the Lord. He also had a second love and that was Sue. We are all BLESSED who walk with Jesus.
Posted By: Craig Bruntz on Dec 02, 2008 08:43AM
Craig, I can't quite get my mind around the fact that Chuck is gone. He had quite a presence. I will miss his strong, simple faith. His sense of humor...which was always present. It doesn't seem real yet.
Posted By: Lisa Sowry on Dec 02, 2008 09:01AM
I just want to say that we are blessed by all that takes place at Ginghamsburg Church!!
Posted By: Barb Thase on Dec 23, 2008 04:44PM
Gary, the fisherman On Day 2 of our mission trip to Jamaica, our medical/dental team opened up a temporary clinic in the back rooms of a village church. It’s a great place to work out of. It gave the pastor a chance to introduce us as partners with him and enabled his church to serve his economically challenged neighborhood in this uniquely important way. Our Ginghamsburg team of medical doctor Steve Guy1 and dentist Mark Bentley2 worked long hours well into the evening with an endless line of patients needing overdue care. I was amazed at the highly physical nature of a dentist’s job and the many hard hours Dr. Bentley spent on his feet. Our dentists on these teams normally serve in these Jamaican clinics for four straight days like this, and it has to be exhausting. I was also privileged yesterday to meet more of our entrepreneurial Jamaican business partners who have benefited from the micro-business ministry initiated by Jim Taylor and Carey Smith from Ginghamsburg. Gary, a fisherman,(main graphic at top) has partnered with us twice. He used his first micro loan to fix up the motor on his fishing boat. He has since paid that loan back in full with a 5% interest rate. He now has a second loan with us to purchase 10 lobster traps. Gary also took me to his house, the one you see his wife and son3 standing in front of. He constructed his home out of wood that he found floating in the ocean, after drying it out and cleaning it up. When I met his wife and son, I noticed that the baby was wheezing a bit. After Gary told me that the baby had asthma, I recommended that he take him to our medical clinic, about a quarter of a mile away. Dr. Guy was able to prescribe asthma medicine, and Gary’s son was breathing much better by the time I left. I also met a Jamaican partner, a doll maker, who makes a toy called jally dolls that she now sells for $10 each to make a living4. Perhaps our star entrepreneur is Marisa, a 36-year-old farmer, who has multiple endeavors up and running. Those include raising livestock like chickens6 and pigs, selling lumber for caskets and furniture, butchering, and making and selling charcoal. She recently received a $4000 loan from the program to purchase a truck for hauling and has already made her first loan payment—early! In fact, she is currently mentoring five other new Jamaican entrepreneurs. Right now we have 14 loans out, and our payback rate has been 140%. Pretty incredible given the overall poverty in the places in which we are serving. For day 3, we are working all day at another medical clinic. You are never more alive than when you are serving Jesus by serving people. How is God calling you? God bless...
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