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"Through the Dust" - Deacon Ministry of Victory Church

Last night we had our second training session for deacons to serve in the ministry of Victory Church.  This training material is titled Deacons, Partners in Ministry and Growth by Dr. Jim Henry.

Last night's session was on the "qualifications" of deacons.  We discussed the qualifications at church, home and in the community.  Below is a general outline of our study.

1. CHURCH - (I Timothy 3:8-10)

     a. Worthy of respect; a constant reflection of God working in his life.
     b. Not double-tongued but sincere; not a gossip.
     c. Not give to much wine. (At Victory Church be require our deacons to abstain from all alcohol.)
     d. Not greedy of filthy lucre.  Does not use the office of deacon for personal gain.  Be generous in giving and tithing through the church.
     e. Holding the mystery of faith in pure conscience.
     f. Proved or tested.
     g. Husband of one wife and rules his household well.

2. HOME - Characteristics of a Deacon's Wife

     a. Not a snob but dignified.
     b. Not a malicious talker but discreet.
     c. Temperate or disciplined.
     d. Trustworthy in everything or dedicated.

3. COMMUNITY - Acts 6:3 "A man of honest report."

     a. "Report" means martyr or witness.
     b. He has a believable Christian life; demonstrates integrity and honesty.

After the lesson we had great discussion on these qualifications.  We also created some "hypothetical situations" and shared how we would handle each of them.  All-in-all, it was a great evening.  The Lord is building His church!

Great Day at Victory Church! Sunday School Kickoff!

Sunday at Victory was our Sunday school kickoff.  In the picture is my wife Debbie and my daughter Kristen (the two in the center) checking in to Sunday school through our new digital kiosk system.

We had great attendance and the excitement in our church was overwhelming.  You know, it was one of those Sunday's when everyone was sharing with with how excited and glad they were to finally have a Sunday school class for their children. 

After everyone got settled into their classes we marched the classes into the gym for a time of recognition and prayer.  Afterwards, we went into the cafeteria and had a party!  (The wives of our leadership team provided the cupcakes.  Great job ladies, they were awesome!)

This is a picture of Judian, with his parents; this was his very first Sunday school experience! Be sure to check out the photo album in the right column of our day.

"Through the Dust" - Deacon Ministry of Victory Church

This week I began a training session for our deacons at Victory Church.  This is a six-week study titled "Deacons - Partners in Ministry and Growth" by Dr. Jim Henry.  We are having our training sessions on Wednesday evenings, and this first session was awesome.

In our first session we became familiar with the term "through the dust."  The word "deacons" in Acts 6 comes from two Greek words meaning "through the dust;" which means these men were rapidly and anxiously hurrying "through the dust" to serve and meet the needs of the people.  Our guys really picked up on this concept.

Since I planted Victory Church with just three people, it has taken us some time to grow the church, and the people to the point of implementing these men into this very important position of ministry.  I currently have two ordained deacons, Darrell Renfro and Eldon Schmidt.  I have set aside three other men for this ministry: Dave Hornyak, Mike Collins, and Paul Boyer.  All five of these men are deserving of this position and have proven themselves faithful to the Lord and to the ministry of Victory Church.

We will have an ordination service on Sunday, 18 May in which I will ordain them with the laying on of hands and then present them to our people.   I am very excited to see how the Lord is growing and establishing His church.

Awesome Easter Service at Victory Church!

Easter Sunday at Victory Church was an awesome experience for me, and according to the feedback I'm getting, many were moved by the presence of the Lord in that service. (To view my message outline click here.) The message will be posted on the Victory Podcast this week for you to listen to or download and share with friends.

Here is a quick "bullet list" of what I witnessed Sunday:

• The Mascoutah Middle School gym was packed!
• The decorations were beautiful!
• The fellowship was lovely!
• The excitement was extremely elevated!
• The presence of the Lord was unbelievable!
• The videos were right on the mark!
• The worship band/team did an outstanding job!
• The congregation connecting in worship to our Risen Lord was breath-taking!
• The invitation was precious and sweet as many made decisions for Christ! (I will know exactly who and how many when I return to the office Tuesday.)
• Oh yea, I almost forgot, everyone looked absolutely fantastic sporting their new Easter duds! :)

Thanks to all those who prayed for our Easter service at Victory, for those who "invested and invited" their friends, co-workers and family, and to all who worked so very hard to prepare for this day!  Heaven was paying attention and you will be rewarded.

How were your services on Easter Sunday? Let me hear from you! :)

 

OK! I'm Bummed...I'm Going Home!

Yep!  I'm bummed! My Blue Devils are going home.  I cannot believe we blew that game against West Virginia.  If you live by the "3" you die by the "3" and that is exactly what has happened to my boys the last three games.

Oh well, it's time to root for the Carolina...Go Heels!  (I must stay true to my beloved ACC!)  Mark Bess, if you are reading this, there's your love! :)

NCAA Men's Basketball Tourny - How Are You Doing In Your Bracket?

Well, it's that time of year again...MARCH MADNESS!  I just checked my bracket and all things considered I thought I did pretty well.  For the first round I was 26-7.  Not bad considering a few of the upsets I never saw coming!

1. Western Kentucky beating Drake with a last second bucket?

2. UConn set home packing by San Diego?

3. Clemson (which knocked my Blue Devils out of the ACC Championship game) were completely out of rhythm and shut down by Villanova!

4. Although I did pick Davidson over Gonzaga.  (Davidson is stronger than you may think...keep an eye on them.  But I do not believe they can overcome G-Town.)

So, how did you do in your bracket for the first round?

Come on Tarheel fans...let me hear from you. (You may find it interesting that I have North Carolina vs. Duke in the National Championship game! You can take the boy out of the Carolina's but you cannot get the Carolina out of the boy!)

Go Duke! (Have you noticed the color scheme of my blog? :) )

Easter Sunday - Message Title: Experiencing God's Love

At Victory Church this Easter Sunday we are emphasizing God's love.  We are giving away Max Lucado's new book titled The 3:16 Promise along with a devotional guide.

My message, titled "Experiencing God's Love" (from John 3:16) is going to be integrated with singing. Here is my sermon outline along with the songs that will be inserted for everyone to sing during my message on Easter Sunday:

1. The Love of God is UNCONDITIONAL.  "For God so love the world...

2. The Love of God is SACRIFICIAL.  "...He gave...

Worship Song: Jesus Paid It All (Passion Worship Band - Everything Glorious) click to hear

3. The Love of God is VALUABLE.  "...His only...

4. The Love of God is PERSONABLE.  "...Son...

5. The Love of God is ACCESSIBLE.  "...whoever believes in Him...

6. The Love of God is NONJUDGMENTAL.  "...should not perish...

Worship Song: Amazing Grace - My Chains Are Gone (Chris Tomlin - See the Morning) Click to hear

7. The Love of God is BENEFICIAL. "...have everlasting life."

Victory Men's Ministry Observe Foot Washing

Here is a picture of some of the guys washing each other's feet. This is a great time of humility, service, and appreciation. Many of our men were moved to tears! What a special evening.

Victory Men's Ministry Observe Communion and Foot Washing

Brother Paul Boyer, our men's ministry leader at Victory Church lead about 25 men in a wonderful service Thursday evening. He led us through the week leading up to the betrayal, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus.

This is an annual event for the men of Victory and once again the presence of the Holy Spirit was overwhelming.

We closed our time together washing each other's feet as Jesus did and then watching Mel Gibson's movie "The Passion." Now we are ready to celebrate the resurrection on Sunday!

My New Office

 

We have an "open office complex" and this is my side of the offices. As many of you know, I have a very large library therefore, many of my books had to be packed away.  There was just not enough room!  (Thanks Dr. Bill Day for teaching me how to build a library!) But I'm okay with that, I'm very grateful for what the Lord has provided.

New Victory Church Offices

 

We have moved into our new offices!  The many workers at Victory Church sacrificed many hours remodeling our new office complex.  We still have a lot to move, but we are running things from our new location at 209 E. Harnett Street, Mascoutah, Illinois.

Great job guys, it looks and feels great!

Results from March Bible Knowledge Survey

Here are the results from the March Bible Knowledge Survey given at Victory a few weeks ago.   (I am giving a survey the first Sunday of each month to the congregation at Victory Church.  Many are taking the survey here on this blog and emailing me the answers.  We included those who took the survey online in with the final results.)

1. What was Judas given to betray Jesus? 30 Pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16) 71% answered correctly

2. In what city was Jesus almost killed by an angry mob? Nazareth (Luke 4:29) 7% answered correctly

3. What ruler, who had already had John the Baptist beheaded, was Jesus made to appear before? Herod Antipas (Matthew 14:10) 25% answered correctly

4. What meat was eaten at the Passover meal? Lamb (Exodus 12:1-20) 50% answered correctly

5. Who said, "Behold the Lamb of God"? John the Baptist (John 1:29) 27% answered correctly

6. What leaves were thrown down in front of Jesus on His entry into Jerusalem? Palm leaves (John 12:13) 63% answered correctly

7. What domestic bird signaled Peter's betrayal of Christ? The rooster (John 13:38; 18:27) 45% answered correctly

8. Who helped Jesus carry the cross? Simone of Cyrene (Luke 23:26) 22% answered correctly

9. What did Jesus eat after his resurrection to proves he was not a mere phantom? Fish (Luke 24:38-43) 9% answered correctly

10. Who cut off the ear of Malchus, the high priest's servant? Peter (John 18:10) 37% answered correctly

March Bible Knowledge Survey

This month at Victory Church I gave our third Bible Knowledge Survey. I am giving one Bible Knowledge Survey on the first Sunday of each month for the entire year. These are just simple questions from various stories in the Bible. Easter is the theme for this survey.

Below is the survey I gave. Feel free to take this survey yourself and email me your answers; I will include you in the score. I will post the correct answers next week, along with the percentage of those who answered correctly. Therefore, be sure to check back next week and see how well you did!

Receiving God's Favor

At Victory Church we have just completed our “congregational fast.” During this fast we have been asking for "God's favor" on our church and ministry. The Lord is certainly allowing us to “receive and walk in His favor.” Here are a few areas in which the Lord has bestowed His favor upon us during the last two months:

1. NEW FAMILIES!

We have had many new families attend Victory Church over the last two month and several of them have taken CLASS 101. Here are those that committed to membership and became the newest members to our church family: Chris and Karen Reely, Andre and Nathlaie Barrera, Wendy Hobson, and Danny Bauer.

2. NEW OFFICE FACILITIES!

The Lord has blessed with new office space and a very reasonable price! The new address for our offices is 209 E. Harnett Street (we are in the plaza with Twin Dragons).

3. MORE EDUCATIONAL SPACE AT MMS!

Last week Mike Collins and I had a meeting with Mr. Bob Stone, Principle at MMS, and he agreed to allow us to use the cafeteria in addition to what we are currently using! This is important because of our next blessing!

4. NEW SUNDAY SCHOOL CLASSES FROM NURSERY TO ADULT!

The Victory Leadership Team and I have unanimously agreed that we need better Bible training for all our children; therefore, beginning on Sunday, April 6th we will begin Sunday School at 9:30 AM for ALL AGES!

5. VOLUNTEERS TO TEACH SUNDAY SCHOOL!

I shared with you several weeks ago that we are going to begin a Sunday school program for all ages and I asked if you would volunteer. Many of you stepped up to the plate and said, “I will teach!” What a blessing! We will be meeting with you in the immediate future.

6. NEW ORDAINED LEADERS!

Dave Hornyak and Mike Collins are beginning training to become ordained Deacons here at Victory Church. We currently have two ordained Deacons, Darrell Renfro and Eldon Schmidt. Please pray for these four men as they prepare themselves for ordination by going through the necessary training.

7. JR. HIGH YOUTH MINISTRY EXPLODING!

Under the leadership of two couples: Bo and Sarah Troyer, and Dave and Dawnetta Hornyak, the youth ministry of 6th – 9th graders is growing in leaps and bounds. Not only haven they grown numerically, but there are great reports coming from this group concerning their spiritual growth! Way to go guys – I’m very proud of you!

As you can see, the Lord is blessing us with His favor! Therefore, let’s continue to “walk in His favor!”

Results From Our 2nd Bible Knowledge Survey

Two weeks ago at Victory Church I gave our second Bible Knowledge Survey. I have decided to give one of these surveys on the first Sunday of each month for the entire year. These are just simple questions from various stories in the Bible. It has been really exciting and fun giving these surveys. The people at Victory are having a great time being challenged with their Bible knowledge.

Below is the survey I gave with the correct answers, Scripture references, and the percentage of correctly answered questions. This time we had numerous people take the survey online from different parts of the country. Those answers were also factored into our percentages.

STOP #3 - STOP Cheating Our Children

Governor Mike Huckabee shares his "12 STOPS for Restoring America's Greatness" in his new book titled: From Hope to Higher Ground. Below is a review of STOP #3 - Stop Cheating our Children.

STOP #3 - STOP CHEATING OUR CHILDREN

In reading this book, I am pleased and very appreciative of a governor and politician that has tremendous insight, concern and passion for our public school system. In all reality, he has a great love for the next generation and generations to follow!

In this chapter Governor Huckabee shares five elements essential for improving our public schools. In this post I will share his five elements for the public school system along with his "12 Action Steps to Stop Cheating our Children.

2nd Bible Knowledge Survey @ Victory Church

At Victory Church Sunday I gave our second Bible Knowledge Survey. These are simple questions from various stories in the Bible. It has been really exciting and fun giving these surveys. The people at Victory are having a great time being challenged with their Bible knowledge.

Below is the survey I gave Sunday. Why not take the survey and see how much knowledge you have of the Bible. Be sure to email me your answers and I will include them in the survey. I will post the answers at the end of the week along with the results in percentage of those that answered correctly. Remember, have fun with this! Enjoy!

SECOND BIBLE KNOWLEDGE SURVEY

1 Who was called the beloved disciple?

2. What did Jesus use to feed the five thousand?

3. What did Noah's dove bring back in his beak?

4. What was Moses' basket made of?

5. What devout young man was placed in a lion's den?

6. What tax collector climbed a tree to see Jesus?

7. Who doubted the resurrected Jesus?

8. What was the last plague sent to the Egyptians?

9. Who had a Passover meal with his followers in the upper room?

10. What is the first color mentioned in the Bible?

11. What did Ezekiel's edible scroll taste like in his mouth?

12. Who was famous as an eater of locusts?

13. What Jewish girl became queen of Persia?

14. What is Satan the father of?

15. Who said, "The serpent beguiled me and I did eat"?

16. Who, according to John, is the bride of Christ?

17. Whose older brother refused to attend the welcome home party?

18. What son of Jacob, according to his brothers, was killed by a wild animal?

19. Who was told by God to take his shoes off because he was standing on holy ground?

20. Who carried five smooth stones as his weapon?

Be sure to send me your answers to [email protected]!

#2 Duke vs. #3 North Carolina (Duke Wins 89-78)

I would be remiss if I failed to mention anything about the greatest rivalry in college basketball - Duke vs. Carolina!

Greg Paulus and John Scheyer were on fire last night! Three's were raining down in groves. In the end there was a lot of celebrating in my house as our Duke Blue Devils took it to the Tarheels, helping to erase the pains of last season with an 89-78 victory in Chapel Hill!

There were many times when I leaped up celebrating, but for me one of the greatest moments was when Kyle Singler, a true freshman, took "Physco T" to the hole one-on-one! I loved it! :))

I know, you Carolina fans are already making excuses because Ty Lawson was on the bench, but that's OK, he will have his chance in Durham with the Cameron Crazies! Go Duke!

To read more about this exciting game click here!

From Hope to Higher Ground: 12 STOPS to Restoring America's Greatness by Governor Mike Huckabee

This weekend I visited my all-time favorite store - Barnes and Noble - and picked up my copy of Governor Mike Huckabee's new book titled "From Hope to Higher Ground." (Also, while I was there, I could not help but purchase a White Chocolate Mocha Latte Venti from the coffee shop! I love Starbucks coffee!)

Anyway, I have only read three chapters, but I am finding it a great read. I love the humble and God-honoring spirit in which Governor Huckabee writes. He shares a little about his life growing up and then shares "12 STOPS to Restoring America's Greatness." I thought I would share with you his 12 STOPS and then comment on each of these in 12 different posts. Here are his 12 STOPS:

1. Stop being cynical

2. Stop thinking horizontally

3. Stop cheating our children

4. Stop the culture of chronic disease

5. Stop abusing our planet

6. Stop the revenge-based criminal justice system

7. Stop robbing taxpayers

8. Stop the heat and turn on the light for hot issues

9. Stop the loss of America's prestige at home and abroad

10. Stop moving the landmark of liberty

11. Stop the loss of good jobs and erosion of agriculture

12. Stop being a selfish citizen

I have really enjoyed reading about the first three STOPS. I plan on posting a separate post for for each STOP, be sure to check back and read these posts.

Until then, I highly recommend this book. It will challenge your thinking about America, and it will also give you a window to the soul of Governor Huckabee. Enjoy!

RESULTS From Our Bible Knowledge Survey

Two weeks ago I gave a very basic Bible knowledge survey which consisted of 20 questions. Many of you have asked me about the results of the survey, therefore, below are the questions, answers, and percentage of those surveyed who gave the correct answer.

BIBLE KNOWLEDGE SURVEY

1. Did Adam and Eve have children? Yes - 89% answered correctly

2. Who was swallowed by a whale? Jonah - 88% answered correctly

3. How many book are in the Bible? 66 - 32 answered correctly

4. How many commandments are there? 10 - 100% answered correctly

5. Who did God speak to at the burning bush? Moses - 74% answered correctly

6. What was the name of Cain's brother? Abel/Seth - 88% answered correctly

7. What two cities were destroyed by God? Sodom & Gomorrah - 56% answered correctly

8. What happened to Lot's wife? Turned to a pillar of salt - 50% answered correctly

9. Who received a coat of many colors? Joseph - 65% answered correctly

10. What was the name of the sea God divided to allow Israel to walk through? Red Sea - 86% answered correctly

11. What city did Israel walk around to conquer? Jericho - 50% answered correctly

12. How many times did they walk around the city? Seven times on the day the wall fell, once for 6 days prior, therefore 13 times - 36% answered correctly

13. Who laid out a "fleece" before the Lord? Gideon - 15% answered correctly

14. How many disciples did Jesus pick? Twelve - 88% answered correctly

15. Who did Jesus say was the greatest of all men? John the Baptist - 8% answered correctly

16. Who did Jesus bring back to life after they were dead and buried for three days? Lazarus - 48% answered correctly

17. Name the three disciples that were the closest to Jesus and made up the inner three? Peter, James and John - 23% answered correctly

18. What two Old Testament characters showed up with Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration? Moses and Elijah - 22% answered correctly

19. How many missionary journeys did Paul go on? Three, possibly four if you include his journey to Rome as a missionary journey. But three was the answer we were looking for. - 19% answered correctly

20. When did the New Testament Church begin? Give name of book and chapter. On the Day of Pentacost in Acts chapter two - 25% answered correctly

Bible Survey Given @ Victory Church Sunday

Last Sunday at Victory Church I gave a very basic Bible knowledge survey which consisted of 20 questions. Many of you have emailed me asking what was on the survey, therefore, I decided to post the survey. These are 20 questions that I wrote down on two napkins while having lunch at a Chinese restaurant last week. Answer the questions and see how well you know your bible!

BIBLE KNOWLEDGE SURVEY

1. Did Adam and Eve have children?

2. Who was swallowed by a whale?

3. How many book are in the Bible?

4. How many commandments are there?

5. Who did God speak to at the burning bush?

6. What was the name of Cain's brother?

7. What two cities were destroyed by God?

8. What happened to Lot's wife?

9. Who received a coat of many colors?

10. What was the name of the sea God divided to allow Israel to walk through?

11. What city did Israel walk around to conquer?

12. How many times did they walk around the city?

13. Who lain our a "fleece" before the Lord?

14. how many disciples did Jesus pick?

15. Who did Jesus say was the greatest of all men?

16. Who did Jesus bring back to life after they were dead and buried for three days?

17. Name the three disciples that were the closest to Jesus and made up the inner three?

18. What two Old Testament characters showed up with Jesus on the Mount of Transfiguration?

19. How many missionary journeys did Paul go on?

20. When did the New Testament Church begin? Give name of book and chapter.

Ouch! Knee Injury!

Last weekend the Victory Church basketball team had a practice in preparation for our season opener this Saturday. It was at practice that I re-injured my right knee. It's an old football injury that has haunted me for years. I had to go to the doctor yesterday, then for x-rays; today I had a MRI on my right leg. I should know the result of the injury Friday.

I injured the medial collateral ligament (MCL) which connects the thighbone to the shinbone, and provides stability to the inner side of the knee. Injuries to the MCL are usually caused by contact on the outside of the knee and are accompanied by sharp pain on the inside of the knee.

I was searching the internet for articles on knee injuries and I found a good article at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Upon reading this article I ran across an acronym RICE:

R - Rest the knee to give the ligament time to heal.

I - Ice can be applied two or three times a day for 15 to 20 minutes each time.

C - Compress the injury to limit swelling. You may have to wear a bandage or brace for a while.

E - Elevate the knee whenever possible.

Let's pray that the MRI and x-rays return with good reports; and rest and therapy will be all that is needed!

New Offices!

In June of this year we will be completely out of our current facility; therefore, we feel very blessed by the Lord for opening up a new office facility for us. The Victory Church offices are moving into the old Anthony Padgett Studio office. We have new signs ordered for the front of the building which should be here in a few weeks.

Also, last Saturday we had about 30-35 of the Victory Church family turn out to help us "demolish" all the existing interior walls. Wow! Those guys must have had a lot of aggression built up because the walls came down quickly! The men of our church are rebuilding the interior walls to our design. We should be in the new offices in a couple of months.

Here are some pictures of our church family in action. Way to go guys! I'm proud of you all!

Thanks for being a part of Victory's Kingdom Builders!

I just wanted to write and say “Thank You!” for becoming Kingdom Builders!  Many of you joined the team over the last couple of weeks and that is exactly what it’s going to take for us to reach our goal of purchasing land and building a facility to minister in.  I would like to share with you on the subject, “Why Giving Is Teamwork!”

Listen to what God’s Word says in I Corinthians 16:1-3 (NIV):

Now about the collection for God's people: Do what I told the Galatian churches to do. On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with his income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made. Then, when I arrive, I will give letters of introduction to the men you approve and send them with your gift to Jerusalem.

I have done some figuring, if I had in my pocket what I have given to the Lord’s work over the years I could:

• Pay cash for a nice piece of property.
• Pay cash for new car, truck, boat or even that Honda Gold Wing motorcycle that I have had my eye on for some time!
• Pay cash for both of my children’s college and buy them a new car to drive off to school.

But, I don’t do those things.  Why?  Because my wife Debbie and I have learned over the years a few things about giving to the Lord’s work:

• We can live much better on 90% than we can on 100%!
• Then we learned we could live better on 85% than we can on 100%!
• Then we learned we could live better on 80% than we can on 100%!
• We have also learned the joy of making an eternal investment by giving to the Lord's work!

There is one Biblical principle that is often overlooked in our materialistic world today:  we, as Christians, are “stewards!” 

That’s a Biblical word that means “caretaker.”  A steward does not own a thing; he simply manages the possessions of another.  In our case as Christians, we simply understand that God owns it all and we are simply caring for His possessions!  All that we have: our possessions, our abilities, our energy, our time and our talents belong to the Lord!  Therefore, we should not be offended when He directs us on how to use what is His.

God’s Word, the Bible, has a lot to say about money. 

• In Matthew, Mark, and Luke one out of every six verses deals with money. 
• Of the twenty-nine parables told by Christ, sixteen of them deal with a person and his money. 
• The Bible has a lot to say about generous giving as well.

Allow me to share with you six biblical lessons about giving:

1. Giving is a universal practice.

Paul said this was not just for the believers in Corinth, but for the churches of Galatia also!  Jesus said in Matthew 10:8, “Freely you have received, freely give.”  Because every believer has received so much from the Lord, every believer should give back to the work of the Lord.

2. Giving is to be a weekly practice.

Paul said that we are to give on the “first day of the week.”  Early Jewish believers moved their day of worship from Saturday to Sunday to commemorate the resurrection of the Lord.  Therefore, Paul said to give on that day of the week.  We are not to give spasmodically, or when we feel that we can afford to give.  The bible indicates that giving is to be a part of our weekly worship!

3. Giving is to be a personal act.

I Corinthians 16:2 says, "Let each one of you…”  Giving is not just for the comfortable and the wealthy—everyone should give—even kids!  Why? Because giving is part of our worship to God.

4. Giving is to be a predetermined plan.

I Corinthians 16:2 says, " Set aside a sum of money.”  There are many people that give because of emotional appeals or special needs.  There are many that give a little week-by-week, almost like tipping the waitress at a restaurant.  But God wants us to have a predetermined systematic amount that we intentionally bring to worship to give to the Lord.  Waiting until Sunday to see what is left over IS NOT taught in the bible.

5. Giving is to be a proportioned amount.

I Corinthians 16:2 says, " Set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income.”  We are to give in proportion to what we receive.  We are never to give equal gifts, but we are told in Scripture to make equal sacrifices! 

6. Giving is to be handled responsibly.

I Corinthians 16:3, Paul says, “I will give letters of introduction to the men you approve and send them with your gift to Jerusalem.  The church at Corinth was to certify trustworthy people to handle the money.  We are to give sacrificially, then we are to handle God’s money responsibly and efficiently.

In closing, let us evaluate our lives in the area of our “giving.”   Ask yourself these question:

• Is my giving pleasing to the Lord? 
• Is He being honored and glorified with my management of His finances?
• Do I really believe that God owns it all?
• Am I being a good and faithful steward in the areas of my finances? 

Just Returned from NC Mountains!

Debbie and I just returned from our weekend trip to Bryson City, NC. What a beautiful part of the country! When God created this world I believe He took a little more time in the Great Smokey Mountains than He did here in the MidWest! (Debbie and I lived in Bryson City, NC and ministered at the Mt. Vernon Free Will Baptist Church for 5 years before moving to Mascoutah, Illinois to plant the church we are currently ministering in.)

We were there for a wedding of one of our teens in the youth group that we ministered to years ago. It was great to see everyone again. I really started to feel "old" when I saw young men and women, which at one time were teenagers in our youth group and are now married with children of their own! I am really proud of them and it was good to see many of them again. They are turning out to be fantastic young adults. Keep up the good work guys. We love you all!

Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad at Columbia University

I am for free speech in America, but I stand in opposition to Columbia University in allowing Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to speak at their campus this week.

I have been reading many different articles in order to get different views and opinions on this event.  Here is one I read from the Washington Post website:

    Several Columbia students, even some who planned to rally against him, said they supported his appearance.

    "He's a leader of a large nation and what he says is important, even if it's wrong," said Dmitry Zakharov, 25, a Columbia University graduate student.

    Ahmadinejad has called the Holocaust "a myth" and called for Israel to be "wiped off the map." The White House has said Iran sponsors terrorism and is trying to develop nuclear weapons. Columbia canceled a planned visit by the Iranian president last year, citing security and logistical reasons.

I just curious what your thoughts may be on this.  Does anyone have an opinion you would like to post? 

Kudos to the Class of 2007!

Congratulations Class of 2007!  You made it!  Sunday, May 20, 2007 we will be honoring and praying over our graduates at Victory Church.  Listed are the Victory grads I'm aware of:

Mascoutah High School: Cody Walker; Belleville East High School: Sidney Rooks; Lincoln Challenge Academy: Christopher Worms; Missouri Baptist University: Philip Renfro; North Greenville University: Lesli Renfro; McKendree College: Michael Collins.

Congratulations guys, we're proud of you!  Now go on and make a powerful Christ honoring influence and impact on this world!

Relocation Process - Article 5

Last week I shared with the congregation of Victory Church that we have a signed contract with the City of Mascoutah to purchase our facility for $450,000.00 and our closing date is set for June 29, 2007. We have agreed to lease back our facility for a period of one year.   This will give us time to make a smoother transition in relocating.

With that being said, I have been writing for several weeks on the “church” in particular, and “relocation articles” on the move of Victory Church.  If you have missed the previous articles you can read them here on my blog; just search for the “Relocation Articles.” 

In my previous articles I have shared about the description, ownership, and mobility of the church.  Today I would like to focus on the mission of the church. 

• What is the mission of the church?
• Why are we here anyway?
• What are we to be doing as a church?

To answer in short, our mission is world evangelism!  World evangelism is the main work of the whole church until Christ returns.  This means that every decision we make as a congregation should be made in light of that decision’s impact on the successful execution of our mission—world evangelism.

World evangelism means that we are concerned with every people group, every nation, every culture, and every language group.  Listen to what the Apostle Paul said, “I am a debtor both to the Greeks, and to the Barbarians; both to the wise, and to the unwise” (Romans 1:14 KJV).

What Paul was saying is that he, and we, are obligated to reach every people group with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ!  Therefore, if we can best accomplish our God-given mission of world evangelism by relocating, then it is a simple matter of obedience to do so!

So, in closing, what is at the heart of Victory Church relocating?  A mandate from our Lord, “Go into all the world and preach the Gospel” (Mark 16:15)!  We are relocating so that Victory Church can better carry out the great commission of reaching people for Christ and seeing their lives radically transformed.

We Have a Contract!

We now have a signed contract on our church facility!  This past Friday our Realtor walked into my office with a signed and agreed upon contract for the sell of our facility.  I'll give you one (1) guess who the potential buyer is.  That's right!  The City of Mascoutah!

We entered into an agreement with them to purchase our facility and the closing date is June 29th.  In the contract we have agreed to lease the facility for a one year period which will give us a chance to aggressively make our next move.

At this moment we are searching diligently for a place to meet on Sunday's in order that we may hold our weekend Celebration Service and Kidstuf Ministry.  We would like to move our weekend services ASAP to a larger facility.  Therefore, if you are aware of a place for us to meet in the area please contact me.  We will continue to have our offices here at our current facility for the next year.

Praise the Lord!  Victory Church is on the move!  Keep us in your prayers.

Relocation Process - Article 4

As you well know, we are praying and working diligently to relocate our church, which is why I have spent several weeks writing about the “church” in our weekly Connection Paper at Victory Church.   If you have missed my previous articles you can check them out here on the blog, just search for the the “Relocation Process” articles. 

Previously, I have written about the description and ownership of the church, and today I would like to focus on the mobility of the church.

Have you ever stopped to think about the mobility of the church?  The mobility?  Yes, that is right, the church is to be mobile!  The idea is that we, as a church, should be more like the children of Israel as God led them through the wilderness.  Numbers 9:23 says, “They camped at the Lord’s command, and they set out at the Lord’s command.”

The church is to be more like a guerrilla army rather than a fixed fortification—mobile and quick to adapt, not stationary and inflexible.  That is the church described in the Bible.

“Share in the suffering  as a good soldier of Christ Jesus.  To please the recruiter, no one serving as a soldier gets entangled in the concerns of everyday life” (2 Timothy 2:3-4).

The church doesn’t have to be gathered at a particular location to be a church.  In fact the first century church was a “scattered” church!  Persecution led them to constantly be on the move!  Acts 8:4 says, “So those who were scattered went on their way proclaiming the message of good news.”

Even when scattered—not gathered—the church is still the church!  Jesus’ working assumption was that then church would, in most periods of history, be too persecuted to get cozy in a particular location.  Matthew 10:23 says, “When they persecute you in one town, escape to another.”

In Acts 11:19-21 we see the difference a militant adaption to circumstances and a rapid seizing of opportunities makes in spreading the Gospel: "Now those who had been scattered by the persecution in connection with Stephen traveled as far as Phoenicia, Cyprus and Antioch, telling the message only to Jews. ²⁰ Some of them, however, men from Cyprus and Cyrene, went to Antioch and began to speak to Greeks also, telling them the good news about the Lord Jesus. ²¹ The Lord's hand was with them, and a great number of people believed and turned to the Lord.

What happened was trans-cultural and effective—and exactly what God had in mind!  According to the following verse, does the New Testament assume the church is to be mobile or not?

“And how can they preach unless they are sent?  As it is written: How welcome are the feet of those who announce the Gospel of good things!” (Romans 10:15)

Since the church is, by definition, the “army of Christ” — obedient, mobile, adaptable — then who are we to tell “the One who enlisted us” we will not move?  The question is not whether we should be willing to move, but only if the Commanding Officer is leading us to move.  We are His rapid deployment force!

Any thoughts?  Feel free to post your comments and let me know what you are thinking.

Relocation Process - Article 1

These are very exciting days here at Victory Church!  I remember eight (8) years ago in the spring of 1999, I literally walked around the old building on a Sunday morning and watched cars fly down the street and only two or three cars in our parking lot.  I remember crying out t God, “Lord, please send some of those cars down our driveway!”  I remember praying and pleading with the Lord to send us people so that I could have an opportunity to share the greatest news in the world with them, the Good News of Jesus Christ and how He desires to have a relationship with them.

Well, praise the Lord, that day has come!  There are now hundreds of people that call Victory their home church.  There are Sundays when our parking lot is full and there are just a hand full of empty chairs.  There are Sundays when our children’s ministry classes are full and running over.  All of this is the answer to my prayer…the Lord has heard and is “showing us great and mighty things which we know not” (Jeremiah 33:3).  The Lord’s hand is obviously on this ministry!

With that being said, I now believe it is time to relocate.  After trying numerous approaches to staying here at 973 N. Sixth Street in Mascoutah, it is time to relocate.  The desire and passion I have, to reach the unchurched and those who have not entered into this great relationship with our Lord, drives me to lead our church in this relocation process.  Therefore, I would like to spend several weeks writing on this subject to assist each of us in this very exciting adventure of faith!

First allow me to say that relocation of a church is an issue that will test your deepest held doctrinal beliefs – in particular, the doctrine of the church.  For instance, "What do you really believe about the nature and the mission of the church?"

Discussing relocation, and actually going through the process of relocation, will test your spiritual commitment.  There are many people who cannot fathom being part of a church that does not have a church building.  There is a greater temptation to turn the building into an idol than we may realize.  Just so you know, there may be a season of time when we do not have a church building.  But I want you to realize this -- the church is not the building.  The building is just a tool used to reach more people for Christ.  The true church are the Christ-followers!  The believers!  The church is you, if you have accepted Christ and your Lord and Savior.

Over the next several weeks I will be writing on the doctrine of the church. We will be discovering the definition of the church, the ownership of the church, the mobility of the church, and the mission of the church.   You will find the articles each week in the Connection Paper; you can also read these articles each week on my blog.

The bottom line is this: relocation is a strategy decision.  We could sit here for years and settle for the status-quo and turn our focus very inward and just minister to each other.  To be perfectly honest with you, there are enough churches across America just like that and I DO NOT want Victory Church to fall into that category.  I personally, as your pastor, WILL NOT settle for the status-quo!  If you are with me…let’s go! If you are unsure…hang on and keep looking up (to Him)!  If you do not want to make this journey with us, then please DO NOT stand in our way or hinder us!  We are going to “cross that Jordan and claim our mountain!” (ref. Joshua 1:2; 14:12).

These are very exciting days for Victory Church!  Let’s continue to walk by faith.  The same faith that Debbie and I exhibited in February of 1999, when we moved 650 miles away from family and friends to start Victory Church. 

Here is your prayer verse for he week: “Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know” Jeremiah 33:3 (NKJV).

Easter Celebration!

Wow!  What an exciting Easter celebration we had yesterday.  Thank you very much for all your work.  I'll tell ya, the Victory Church family is awesome!  You guys really pulled together and worked very hard to make this one of the best Easter celebrations ever!  Way to go guys!  I'm proud of you!

I'm still not sure about the actual count, because I've had a few people tell me different totals for the number we had in attendance.  Some have said 280, some said 312, and another said 327, and then the janitor at the school said we had around 350.  Therefore, I'm not exactly sure how many people we had, so we will say somewhere around 300!  But I can tell you this, according to the Connection Cards that were turned in and reviewed this morning, we had 5 people begin a relationship Christ by accepting Him as their Lord and Savior, and 4 people recommitted their lives to Him!  That makes it all worth while!  Praise the Lord!  Nine lives have been RTLed (Radically Transformed Lives) forever!

Happy Valentine's Day...

Last Saturday evening we had our annual Sweetheart Banquet here at Victory.  What a blast!  Thanks to John and Penny Pratt, Gene and Gail Worms, Sean and Sheila Honer who worked very hard for weeks preparing for this event.  You guys did a great job!

Below is the outline of the message I delivered at the banquet titled "What is Real Love?"  I pulled the story from I Samuel 25 where Abigail and David meet and eventually become husband and wife.  First I shared what love is not:

1. Love is not the same as LUST.
2. Love is not the same as ROMANCE.
3. Love is not the same as INFACTUATION.
4. Love is not the same as SEX.

The I shared what true love is:

1. Real love is RESPECT. (I Samuel 25:23-24)
2. Real love is a common FAITH.  (I Samuel 25:26-28)
3. real love is a genuine CONCERN.  (I Samuel 25:20-31)

Below are some pictures from the banquet:

  

   

New Church Plant in Collinsville, IL

I just spent time doing what I love the most (outside of spending time with my wife and kids of course!) and that is spending time with a church planter.  Steve Gray is planting a Purpose-Driven church called "Discovery Family Church" in Collinsville, Illinois; his first "preview" service is this Sunday and he is very excited.  We here at Victory Church are assisting him with our resources and talents in preparing and printing off some promotional materials for him. 

Please pray for Steve and his launch team as the Lord uses them to dig out another PDC (purpose-driven church) in the Metro-east.  If you would like to encourage him by sending an email just click here, I'm sure he would love to hear from you and know that you are praying for him.  Keep up the good work Steve!

Popular Shows Starting this Week

This week is the beginning of several very popular TV shows: 24 with Jack Baurer, American Idol, and House with Hugh Laurie.  It seems like everyone I talk with are looking forward to these shows with great anticipation.  I mean, I even know of people who are reworking their weekly schedules just so they can either be at home or at the gym where they have TV monitors to watch these shows. 

How about you?  Which is your favorite?  Are you adjusting your schedule around these shows?

Fire Stikes Two NC Baptist Churches

Two Eastern North Carolina Baptist pastors and congregations were awakened early this morning when they were notified that their churches were literally on fire.  The two churches were Memorial Baptist Church and Unity Free Will Baptist Church both of Greenville, NC and less than a half mile from each other.

Pastor Jeff Manning of Unity Free Will Baptist Church said, "Right now, I'm numb; my head is spinning. We will have to figure out what to do, and at the same time, our heart goes out to the good folks at Memorial Baptist because there's is a whole lot worse than ours."

Being from NC and also a FWB pastor, I know Pastor Manning and Unity FWB Church.  My prayers are with Brother Jeff and his congregation.  To read the full story click here.

I'm Back.....

After an extended period of sporadic posting I just wanted you to know that, "I'm back!"  I needed to take a break from daily posting to focus on some other areas of my ministry.  To be perfectly honest, I really did miss blogging and I'm looking forward to posting again on a regular basis. 

Christmas Eve--Totally Awesome, Two Thumbs Up!

Christmas Eve Sunday services at Victory were totally awesome!  Actually, I'll give it "two thumbs up!"  Our Sunday morning worship service was standing room only.  I was completely taken back by how many people we had in our service, especially since I knew of many in our church family that had already left town for Christmas.  I really felt the presence of the Lord in our service and I believe He spoke to many hearts.  We had about 15 local visiting families at Victory, and many of them told me upon leaving that they would be back...that was an early Christmas gift for me!

Our Christmas Eve communion/candlelight service was great also.  There was such a sweet spirit as we all slowed down from the hustle and bustle of Christmas to just focus on the Lord.  We had an awesome time of worship by singing, taking communion, and then closed with everyone lighting their candles and singing Silent Night.  It was totally awesome...I loved it!

I trust you had great Christmas services at your church also.   

Pretty Awesome Experience!

Just last week one of our church members Special Agent Timothy Allen returned home after serving 6 months in Iraq with the United States Air Force.  Upon returning Tim came by my office and presented me with the flag you see and a certificate that reads:

"Let it be known that this American flag bears witness to the capture, prosecution, and/or destruction of terrorist forces threatening the freedom of the United States of America and the world.  This flag was carried by Special Agent Timothy Allen of the Air Force Office of Special Investigations during combat counterintelligence missions in hostile territory specially for Jon Cannon in support of "Operation Iraqi Freedom" in Kirkuk, Iraq."

Wow!  What an honor!  Thank you Tim!  And a special thanks goes out to all of our military men and women for sacrificing their lives to defend freedom at home and around the world.  We do support you (in spite of what you see on TV from the liberal media) and we do stand behind you 100%.  All of you are in my prayers!  May our God, Jehovah richly bless you, protect you, and bring you home safely to your families!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!  You are loved!

Catch Saturday Night Fever at Victory Church

Beginning Saturday, November 25th at 7:00 PM you will be able to catch "Saturday Night Fever" here at Victory Church!  No, I'm not talking about John Travolta; I'm talking about adding an additional weekend celebration service at Victory during the Christmas season. 

We will be trying this Saturday evening service through Christmas and if it goes well we will consider continuing the service into 2007.  Therefore, put forth every effort to bring a guest!  Help me spread the word about our additional service.  See you on "Saturday Night Live" at Victory! 

"Merry Christmas" Is Back for Some Retailers

Wal-Mart is putting "Merry Christmas" back in the Christmas greetings this year.  A year after religious and other groups boycotted retailers, including Wal-Mart (WMT), for downplaying Christmas, the world's largest retail chain will have an in-your-face Christmas theme this year.

"We, quite frankly, have learned a lesson from last year," says Wal-Mart spokeswoman Linda Blakley. "We're not afraid to use the term 'Merry Christmas.' We'll use it early, and we'll use it often."

I also read an article from American Family Association Alert Action website that Best Buy will omit "Merry Christmas" and stick with the "Happy Holidays" this Christmas.

Question, "Does this effect where you will shop this Christmas?"  What are your thoughts on all of this?  Please post a comment.

It's That Time of Year Again!

Well, it's that time of year again.  You may be wondering, "What time of year?  Christmas?"  No, I'm talking about Duke Basketball!  Much to my surprise Greg Paulus is back after suffering an ankle injury a couple of months ago.  Welcome back Greg!  You made me a little nervous.  (My son spoke with Greg Paulus on the phone over the summer.  My sister works for Duke's basketball program during the summer and hooked up Greg with my son Tyler...he loved it!)   

The 12th-ranked Duke Blue Devils played their first game last night against Columbia in the CBE Classic in Cameron Indoor Stadium and won 86-43.  To read the full story click here.

Also, Tony Smithson if you are reading this, click here for a link to the Duke vs. Indiana game...tickets are going at a current bid of $4,000.00!  Wow!  Although I should not be surprised, they are playing at Duke in the great Cameron Indoor Stadium! If they were playing at Indiana you could probably get tickets for about $40.00!!!  (I'm laughing inside! Love you brother!)

Marriage Retreat this Weekend!

This weekend may just mark the beginning of "oneness" in many marriages.  Today, along with seven (7) other couples from Victory Church, my wife Debbie and I will attend the "Weekend to Remember" marriage retreat in St. Louis, MO. 

"Weekend to Remember" is a marriage seminar created by FamilyLife. It is a power-packed, two-day seminar that provides a great way to build your marriage on a solid foundation.  Please pray for the couples that are attending.

Are You An Eagle Saint?

Last night we had a leadership team meeting at Victory Church after our midweek service.  I had invited Roy Gray, a financial adviser with Smith-Barney to meet with us and become our financial adviser here at Victory.  As we all gathered around the conference table in my office, Roy looks around and says to me, "So, you like eagles?" (I have eagles everywhere in my office.)  I then started explaining to him (almost preaching :) ) why I liked eagles and once again started rehashing in my mind the significant similarities between the eagle and the Christian.

I first quoted to him Isaiah 40:31 "They that wait (trust) upon the Lord will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not faint."

Then I gave a few examples of how the Christian should be like the eagle:

• Eagles eat only fresh meat.  They do not eat dead animals like their cousin the vulture and buzzard.  We as Christians should be feasting daily upon the "fresh meat" of God's Word.
• Eagles sore extremely high.  We as Christians should be living at a higher standard than the world.
• Eagles fly directly into the sun when in danger.  We as Christians should fly directly into the "Son" (Jesus Christ) when we are facing trials.
• Eagles go through a what is called a molting period when flesh begins to grow over their claws and they cannot hunt thus not able to eat.  They totally depend on the other eagles to hunt for them and drop them some fresh meat.  We as Christians are our brothers keeper and it is our duty to care for others that may be discouraged or down and out.
• Eagles go to a "rock" to scratch the flesh off their claws so they can hunt and feed themselves and live the life that they were created to live.  We to as individuals must go to the "Rock" (Jesus Christ) and find a new life in Him so that we can be all that we were created to be. 

There are many more analogies between the eagle and the Christian.  I preached an entire series of messages on this topic titled "Eagle Saints."  If you would like to have a copy of this sermon series just shoot me an email and I will send it out to you (the suggested donation is $20...if you cannot afford it just let me know and I will send it to you anyway).

Let's all strive to be "Eagle Saints!"  Happy soaring!

My Heart Is Breaking Over Another Fallen Pastor

I'm somewhat numb to the events that have been unfolding over the last week or so with the confession of Pastor Ted Haggard.  It always grieves my heart when ministers fall into sexual immorality.  Please continue to pray for Pastor Haggard, his family, New Life Church, and all the people whose lives have been effected.  This just goes to show that none of us, pastors or laity, are above succumbing to the pressures and temptations of sin.  I hate the devil!

Yesterday I read am interesting article by Mark Driscoll that he posted on his blog.  I believe his writings will be very thought-provoking to you.  Click here to what Mark had to say.

Temporary Children's Ministry Trailers Have Arrived

Today our temporary "Children's Ministry" trailers arrived! (The picture on the left are not the actual trailers, but they are similar.)  I know our Connection Cafe' & Bookstore staff will be thrilled to have their space back!  Thanks Becky and Sharon for your patience.

This is a much needed temporary building for us to house our children's ministry in; we have currently outgrown our facility (which is a good thing).  These buildings are for our immediate, short-term plan to continue to grow and minister as we continue to work out the details for our long-term plan.  Please continue to pray for me and the entire leadership team of Victory Church as we lead and plan for the future of Victory.

Typical "Fat Friday" Football

Well, last Friday night was a typical "Fat Friday" football game in Burke County, NC.  In other words, it went down to the final seconds of the game before a winner was decided. 

Pictured on the left is my family (from top, left to right: my daughter Kristen, my nephew Nic, my sister Jennifer, my dad Jim, my mom Beverly; bottom left to right: my sister Angie, me wearing the Duke cap, then my wife Debbie.)  Boy was it cold sitting in those concrete stands!!!

For those who even care (it's going to be really hard for me to even type this) Freedom won over East Burke 7-3.  The score was 0-0 until about 2 minutes left in the 4th quarter when East Burke kicked a field goal to go up 3-0.  After the kickoff, Freedom drove down the field and scored a touchdown with about 40 seconds left in the game.  East Burke made a valiant effort to score in 40 seconds but came up short.

Overall Freedom wins the yearly rivalry with 18 wins to East Burke's 15 wins; which brings the "original" Fat Friday football games to a close.  That rivalry will certainly be missed 1000's of Burke County residents (and those who have moved and live outside Burke County--like me!)!

It was pretty cool to have the Army Para-Troopers (five of them) fly in the game ball.  Check out the photo...it was an awesome experience!  Kudo's to all of our military personnel.  Thanks for all you do!  I'm praying for you all!

The Last "Orginal" Fat Friday

I am back in my hometown for the last "original" Fat Friday Football game between two rival high schools: East Burke Cavaliers (from which Debbie and I graduated in 1983) and the cross county rivals Freedom Patriots.

For 32 years this rival has been the highlight of each schools football calendar.  The current standings are: Freedom 17 wins to East Burke's 15 wins.  Tonight will be the 33rd annual meeting of these two rival schools.  It will be played at East Burke in Cavalier Country at the Danny Williams Stadium.  This stadium is one of the best in high school football.  The East Burke Booster's Club has done a fantastic job in building and maintaining this awesome facility.  The reason this will be the last "original" Fat Friday is because the county are in the process of building two new high schools which will somewhat change the rivalry.

This is the first Fat Friday game that I have been able to attend in about 15 years and I am really excited about being at the game tonight.  I traveled up to Freedom HS last night for the Junior Varsity game in which East Burke won over Freedom 21-14.  Let's just hope the same can be said for the varsity team in tonight's game. Be sure to check back and I will post the outcome.  Go Cavaliers!

Should John Kerry Apologize? What Do You Think?

Massachusetts Senator John Kerry defiantly and in no uncertain terms declared Tuesday that he would "apologize to no one" for statements made a day earlier, in which he told a gathering of California college students that if you don't do well in school, you will "get stuck in Iraq."

"I apologize to no one for my criticism of the president and his broken policy," Kerry told reporters in a press conference in Seattle. "My statement yesterday, and the White House knows this full-well, was a botched joke about the president and the president's people and not about the troops."

What is our take on this?  Should John Kerry apologize to our troops?  Just click on the "comments" link below to post your comments.

St. Louis Cardinals Are World Champions!

Go crazy folks! Go crazy!  The St. Louis Cardinals are the 2006 World Series Champions!  What way to break in a new stadium!

Many of you have asked me about the World Series game that I attended Thursday, October 26th.  Therefore, I have posted a photo album titled "Game 4 of the 2006 World Series in St. Louis."  Just scroll down and look on the left side of this page, then click on the photo album and you will be able to enjoy several of the pictures that I took at Game 4 of the World Series.

Once again, "Go crazy folks!  Go crazy!"  The St. Louis Cardinals at World Champs!