For the month of March I have been studying Monasticism. I have committed myself to dressing like a monk, praying like a monk (which is very extensive and hard to follow rigidly), and studying a lot about monasticism. Besides the fact that I will have the opportunity to visit a New Monastic environment in 2 days called Reba Place Fellowship. I have also been reading through a book called The Little Flowers of Saint Francis. The aforementioned book was written in Italian by companions of St. Francis of Assisi, and then translated into English by Raphael Brown.
The book had provided many insights into both modern and monastic life. My most meaningful message from the book is summed up in the Latin words “Contemptus Mundi”. Contemptus mundi means contempt for the world. I am a firm believer and man of understanding as far as this concept and the futility of worldly things. If I had one message for the world it would be contemptus mundi.
Jesus Christ, whom St. Francis, his followers, and I are seeking to follow was quite simple. He showed that the “abundant life” can be found by returning to the ways of the Father and following His example. This is put into practice by St. Francis and his followers (the Franciscans) by obeying 3 simple rules from the outset.
“If you wish to be perfect, go, and sell all you have, and give to the poor, and come and follow me” – words of Jesus Christ
“Take nothing for your journey, neither staff, nor wallet, nor bread, nor money” – words of Jesus Christ
“If anyone wishes to come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me” – words of Jesus Christ
The three quotes by the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ sum up the simple life that leads to abundant life.
When contemplating about the concept of contemptus mundi, I am led to think of the parable of the lost son. The story goes that a young son of a man asks his father for his inheritance and leaves his father’s house and goes and spends the money living a lavishly wild lifestyle. Finally at the end of the inheritance money, the son ends up feeding the pigs for a local neighbor. As the man thinks of his current circumstance as he is feeding the pigs, he decides to go back to his father’s house and beg forgiveness. The father welcomes him home not only forgiving him but excited that he has come back home.
How many of us, in the 21st Century, are stuck “feeding the pigs” as we chase after things of this world? Contemptus mundi is the answer to the ills that plague our lives.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Thursday, March 4, 2010
All Ye Heretic's
“…the truth of the matter is that they are outside the Church of Christ”.
Well, it’s the beginning of March, and might I say, “Thank God”. I have completed my month of experimenting orthodox Christianity.
Consider the title and the quote I provided, that pretty much sums up my view of orthodox Christianity. I took the time to read a book, written by a Baptist become Orthodox (The Way: What Every Protestant Should Know About the Orthodox Church by Clark Carlon). The book interesting and I had a couple underlines and side notes, but honestly, if I had to made a direct statement concerning my understanding of the orthodox denomination, it would be pompous. Yes, I said it.
Basically, the orthodox view is that everyone else is heretics. I understand that Jesus Christ did make it very clear that Christianity was a narrow way, and that it is only through Him that we get to the Father, but I feel that the orthodox use this way too much to propose their way as the right way.
We must also consider the fact that when the disciples came back to Christ to tell him about others who were casting out demons and healing people, “in His name”, Jesus Christ did not say they were wrong. What did He say? “Do not stop him (Luke 9:49-50)”. I also find it quite interesting that this passage is involving the pride of the disciples and who would be the greatest.
Orthodox and Catholic Christians are very similar in the traditional sense, which I have come to have a distinct taste for. I understand that there will always be some things we disagree on, but let’s not throw the baby out with the bath water, and find UNITY!
After all, as I stated to a man at the bank yesterday when speaking about the Church, “it’s all about serving and bringing glory to our Lord Jesus Christ, we need to seek to exhibit the unity that was found in the book of Acts, even amidst diversity”.
Also, for my duration of February, in the orthodox tradition the komboskini (prayer rope) is similar to the catholic rosary, yet much more humble. All you have to do is constantly recite, “Lord Jesus, have mercy on me a sinner”. Unfortunately, I did not feel the accountability that I needed with that routine. I had only attended Orthodox Church once in the entire month (I know, I know, shame on me).
One great educational resource I did take advantage of and enjoyed was the podcast called Ancient Faith. http://ancientfaith.com/podcasts . I learned about a radical monk named Rev. A.N. Experidon aka “The Bulgarian Monk” who was an encouragement to my radical, seemingly un-orthodox ways.
This month, monasticism. Yes, definitely a discussion and blog worth looking forward to!
Socrates said, “The unexamined life is not worth living”. Surely the same is true of one’s faith, yet the vast majority of Christians- in America at any rate- never take time to examine their faith seriously, to understand why they believe what they believe and how that affects-or should affect-their lives” – excerpt from the book mentioned above.
Thanks for reading...look forward to conversation!
God bless in Christ,
Mike Miano
Well, it’s the beginning of March, and might I say, “Thank God”. I have completed my month of experimenting orthodox Christianity.
Consider the title and the quote I provided, that pretty much sums up my view of orthodox Christianity. I took the time to read a book, written by a Baptist become Orthodox (The Way: What Every Protestant Should Know About the Orthodox Church by Clark Carlon). The book interesting and I had a couple underlines and side notes, but honestly, if I had to made a direct statement concerning my understanding of the orthodox denomination, it would be pompous. Yes, I said it.
Basically, the orthodox view is that everyone else is heretics. I understand that Jesus Christ did make it very clear that Christianity was a narrow way, and that it is only through Him that we get to the Father, but I feel that the orthodox use this way too much to propose their way as the right way.
We must also consider the fact that when the disciples came back to Christ to tell him about others who were casting out demons and healing people, “in His name”, Jesus Christ did not say they were wrong. What did He say? “Do not stop him (Luke 9:49-50)”. I also find it quite interesting that this passage is involving the pride of the disciples and who would be the greatest.
Orthodox and Catholic Christians are very similar in the traditional sense, which I have come to have a distinct taste for. I understand that there will always be some things we disagree on, but let’s not throw the baby out with the bath water, and find UNITY!
After all, as I stated to a man at the bank yesterday when speaking about the Church, “it’s all about serving and bringing glory to our Lord Jesus Christ, we need to seek to exhibit the unity that was found in the book of Acts, even amidst diversity”.
Also, for my duration of February, in the orthodox tradition the komboskini (prayer rope) is similar to the catholic rosary, yet much more humble. All you have to do is constantly recite, “Lord Jesus, have mercy on me a sinner”. Unfortunately, I did not feel the accountability that I needed with that routine. I had only attended Orthodox Church once in the entire month (I know, I know, shame on me).
One great educational resource I did take advantage of and enjoyed was the podcast called Ancient Faith. http://ancientfaith.com/podcasts . I learned about a radical monk named Rev. A.N. Experidon aka “The Bulgarian Monk” who was an encouragement to my radical, seemingly un-orthodox ways.
This month, monasticism. Yes, definitely a discussion and blog worth looking forward to!
Socrates said, “The unexamined life is not worth living”. Surely the same is true of one’s faith, yet the vast majority of Christians- in America at any rate- never take time to examine their faith seriously, to understand why they believe what they believe and how that affects-or should affect-their lives” – excerpt from the book mentioned above.
Thanks for reading...look forward to conversation!
God bless in Christ,
Mike Miano
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Avatars, Catholics, and the Rosary
Yes, I know a seemingly odd title for a blog post, but I have my reasons for this update.
First off, Gabriella and I went to see the movie Avatar the other night. Let me say it was awesome. I wasnt too keen on going to see a cartoon type movie, but the movie had such Spiritual and political themes. I learned from a dear brother in the faith, that Avatar is basically embodiment, which if I played Wii or other gaming systems I would know that.
The citizens of Pandora were so creative and imaginative that I envied them - consider the faith and awe they had for their people, land, and mother goddess. I was filled with such awe when the whole community came together and laid hands on Jake to welcome him as a member of their community, it was so beautiful! These people where the Church, standing together in the midst of persecution! I saw so much we as the body of Christ could learn from this movie. The political aspect was defintely the rock that the "militant leaders" wanted to get from other the land of Pandora, sounds oddly familiar to a United States Agenda, doesnt it?
Throughout the whole movie, I just thought and related to the people of Pandora (Yes, even to the point of tears). We need to begin to look through the eyes of those standing in these crisis, (for example, the Native Americans, Iraqi's, Palestinians, etc). Fact of the matter is, as my favorite writer has said, "It is not about issues, but about people".
Well, not to make this too lengthy..For the month of January I delved into an understanding of Catholicism, which will not end with January. I have been praying the rosary (which I would like to say I was faithful every day but I wasnt) and attending Mass (which I only stated faithful 2 out of 4 Sundays). I learned many things from this experience, both to the credit of the Catholic teachings and some to say, Why?
AS far as the "Hail Mary" thing, agreed, I dont fully understand nor believe the whole mother of God thing, but I think God weighs the hearts not our misunderstandings, etc..They are going through the death, burial, and ressuection.
Praying the rosary, was exciting. I started out having to learn long prayers, which became repititious and void at times, but I strived to let the thoughts really sink in. I learned to use the rosary to benefit my personal prayers as I utilized the ACTS method. Sitting in prayer for 45 minutes a day was great, some of the words may be absent minded, but how much did you pray today? Once again, I trust that the Lord weighs the heart (Proverbs 21:2).
I am also looking forward to reading through and studying the Catholic Cathechism, which I wasnt able to do this month. But I trust even as an Orthodox Christian (which is February's study) I will have time to read the Catholic Cathechism.
Truthfully, I learned alot (more than I care to type, ask me about it). I hope that we as the body of Christ continue to learn and use our imagination in the process. To Christ Jesus be the glory!
First off, Gabriella and I went to see the movie Avatar the other night. Let me say it was awesome. I wasnt too keen on going to see a cartoon type movie, but the movie had such Spiritual and political themes. I learned from a dear brother in the faith, that Avatar is basically embodiment, which if I played Wii or other gaming systems I would know that.
The citizens of Pandora were so creative and imaginative that I envied them - consider the faith and awe they had for their people, land, and mother goddess. I was filled with such awe when the whole community came together and laid hands on Jake to welcome him as a member of their community, it was so beautiful! These people where the Church, standing together in the midst of persecution! I saw so much we as the body of Christ could learn from this movie. The political aspect was defintely the rock that the "militant leaders" wanted to get from other the land of Pandora, sounds oddly familiar to a United States Agenda, doesnt it?
Throughout the whole movie, I just thought and related to the people of Pandora (Yes, even to the point of tears). We need to begin to look through the eyes of those standing in these crisis, (for example, the Native Americans, Iraqi's, Palestinians, etc). Fact of the matter is, as my favorite writer has said, "It is not about issues, but about people".
Well, not to make this too lengthy..For the month of January I delved into an understanding of Catholicism, which will not end with January. I have been praying the rosary (which I would like to say I was faithful every day but I wasnt) and attending Mass (which I only stated faithful 2 out of 4 Sundays). I learned many things from this experience, both to the credit of the Catholic teachings and some to say, Why?
AS far as the "Hail Mary" thing, agreed, I dont fully understand nor believe the whole mother of God thing, but I think God weighs the hearts not our misunderstandings, etc..They are going through the death, burial, and ressuection.
Praying the rosary, was exciting. I started out having to learn long prayers, which became repititious and void at times, but I strived to let the thoughts really sink in. I learned to use the rosary to benefit my personal prayers as I utilized the ACTS method. Sitting in prayer for 45 minutes a day was great, some of the words may be absent minded, but how much did you pray today? Once again, I trust that the Lord weighs the heart (Proverbs 21:2).
I am also looking forward to reading through and studying the Catholic Cathechism, which I wasnt able to do this month. But I trust even as an Orthodox Christian (which is February's study) I will have time to read the Catholic Cathechism.
Truthfully, I learned alot (more than I care to type, ask me about it). I hope that we as the body of Christ continue to learn and use our imagination in the process. To Christ Jesus be the glory!
Friday, January 29, 2010
Ramblings of a Jesus Freak
The past couple weeks, actually I could even say the beginning of the New Year has been awesome, and AWE in every sense of the word.
Have had plenty of study opportunities, especially with the start of the new group I started called ACTing Out ACTS! Also, have had plenty of speaking engagements which have been both a blessing and trying.
So, the latest message that has been on my mind came from the Acting Out: ACTS study, we read through ACTS 1 and 2. Acts chapter one has always had a serious yet humorous tone to me, since we see the disciples at their lowest point after the crucifixion of Christ, (they are confused and seemingly defeated), then at the greatest point, (in which breeds a different form of confusion).
Acts 1 speaks about the proofs we have of the resurrection and the power we have received as witnesses to proclaim the gospel. But, what is the next action- stupefied! The apostles are depicted as being in so much awe of the ascension that they stand staring into the sky. HELLO! We have proof and power, GO!
Such a message for us in these times as well!
I have just read through Shane Claiborne’s book, The Irresistible Revolution for the 2nd time. Yes, the book is that good. I want to share some thoughts…
We seriously need to “experiment with the gospel”, that is what Shane and his community are trying to do. All of this is in an effort to “question the sanity of the consumer culture, the distorted priorities of the global economy, and the methodology of the welfare state…” It is long over due that we begin “rediscovering the Biblical reversal of our social logic”.
I love how Shane compared the “unbelieving activists” and the “inactive believers”. Oh, how these two disturb me and get me fired up! On one end the unbelieving activist needs to see salvation as saving our souls from sin and that salvation does not end with us, but in turn the inactive believer needs to see that we also need to see salvation as saving the world from this even system and that salvation does begin with us doing something!
“…another world is possible”. Isn’t that the rally call of the gospel? I see the problem as does Shane, that we sit at the foot of the cross, cry, worship, and lay our lives down, but never pick the cross up and follow Christ. Without mission, this doesn’t make much sense. Hypocrisy and millions of other “church issues” come from lacking mission, it simply gets boring!!!
The Word of God must not become stale in our minds and hearts. The minute that the Word is not pushing you to a reckless faith, you need to question your “Christian scholarship”. ..Ha ha shout to to Soren Kieregard.
How about Church by this definition? “A people on the margins giving birth to another way of living, a new community marked by interdependence and sacrificial love”. Yeah, that leaves me speechless too!
Galatians 2:20 becomes to hold a new meaning when we truly understand that seeing Christ through us is important to the lost. As Shane references many times the term “Namaste”, which means “I see God in you”. We need to “spend our lives for others”, or even as the book of Isaiah says “pour out our lives unto death”.
Here is my plea from my heart utilizing the words from Shane’s book:
“The doors of normalcy and conformity are dead. The time has come to give up on the doors and find a window to climb through. It’s a little more dangerous and may get you into some trouble, but it’s a heck of a lot more fun. And the people who have changed the world have always been the risk-takers who climb through windows while the rest of the world just walks in and out of doors…”
“We need converts in the best sense of the word, people who are marked by the renewing of their minds and imaginations, who no longer conform to the pattern that is destroying our world. Otherwise, we have only believers, and believers are a dime a dozen now a days. What the world needs is people who believe so much in another world that they cannot help but begin enacting it now” That’s it, honestly, I can sit and quote the whole book to you, yeah once again, its that good! Let the MUSTARD SEED REVOLUTION begin!!! Note- really read about the significance of the mustard seed, one word, Wow!
So in conclusion, as I said in a message I spoke last night. We need to start being risk takers for the Kingdom of God. We need to storm the gates of hell and save the lost and redeem the world all through and for Christ Jesus. As a new wise friend said to me last night, “we need to set up our tents next to hell, and save souls from the fire”. AMEN
Thanks for reading!
Have had plenty of study opportunities, especially with the start of the new group I started called ACTing Out ACTS! Also, have had plenty of speaking engagements which have been both a blessing and trying.
So, the latest message that has been on my mind came from the Acting Out: ACTS study, we read through ACTS 1 and 2. Acts chapter one has always had a serious yet humorous tone to me, since we see the disciples at their lowest point after the crucifixion of Christ, (they are confused and seemingly defeated), then at the greatest point, (in which breeds a different form of confusion).
Acts 1 speaks about the proofs we have of the resurrection and the power we have received as witnesses to proclaim the gospel. But, what is the next action- stupefied! The apostles are depicted as being in so much awe of the ascension that they stand staring into the sky. HELLO! We have proof and power, GO!
Such a message for us in these times as well!
I have just read through Shane Claiborne’s book, The Irresistible Revolution for the 2nd time. Yes, the book is that good. I want to share some thoughts…
We seriously need to “experiment with the gospel”, that is what Shane and his community are trying to do. All of this is in an effort to “question the sanity of the consumer culture, the distorted priorities of the global economy, and the methodology of the welfare state…” It is long over due that we begin “rediscovering the Biblical reversal of our social logic”.
I love how Shane compared the “unbelieving activists” and the “inactive believers”. Oh, how these two disturb me and get me fired up! On one end the unbelieving activist needs to see salvation as saving our souls from sin and that salvation does not end with us, but in turn the inactive believer needs to see that we also need to see salvation as saving the world from this even system and that salvation does begin with us doing something!
“…another world is possible”. Isn’t that the rally call of the gospel? I see the problem as does Shane, that we sit at the foot of the cross, cry, worship, and lay our lives down, but never pick the cross up and follow Christ. Without mission, this doesn’t make much sense. Hypocrisy and millions of other “church issues” come from lacking mission, it simply gets boring!!!
The Word of God must not become stale in our minds and hearts. The minute that the Word is not pushing you to a reckless faith, you need to question your “Christian scholarship”. ..Ha ha shout to to Soren Kieregard.
How about Church by this definition? “A people on the margins giving birth to another way of living, a new community marked by interdependence and sacrificial love”. Yeah, that leaves me speechless too!
Galatians 2:20 becomes to hold a new meaning when we truly understand that seeing Christ through us is important to the lost. As Shane references many times the term “Namaste”, which means “I see God in you”. We need to “spend our lives for others”, or even as the book of Isaiah says “pour out our lives unto death”.
Here is my plea from my heart utilizing the words from Shane’s book:
“The doors of normalcy and conformity are dead. The time has come to give up on the doors and find a window to climb through. It’s a little more dangerous and may get you into some trouble, but it’s a heck of a lot more fun. And the people who have changed the world have always been the risk-takers who climb through windows while the rest of the world just walks in and out of doors…”
“We need converts in the best sense of the word, people who are marked by the renewing of their minds and imaginations, who no longer conform to the pattern that is destroying our world. Otherwise, we have only believers, and believers are a dime a dozen now a days. What the world needs is people who believe so much in another world that they cannot help but begin enacting it now” That’s it, honestly, I can sit and quote the whole book to you, yeah once again, its that good! Let the MUSTARD SEED REVOLUTION begin!!! Note- really read about the significance of the mustard seed, one word, Wow!
So in conclusion, as I said in a message I spoke last night. We need to start being risk takers for the Kingdom of God. We need to storm the gates of hell and save the lost and redeem the world all through and for Christ Jesus. As a new wise friend said to me last night, “we need to set up our tents next to hell, and save souls from the fire”. AMEN
Thanks for reading!
Monday, January 4, 2010
New Years Resolution
Ok, well it’s the 4th, so therefore it is officially 2010. The weekend is over and now its back to the normal life for 2010. I did some research on New Year’s resolutions and it has been said that 40-45% of Americans make resolutions. If you make a resolution you are more than 10 times more likely to accomplish your goals, than those who fail to make resolutions. Gabriella and I both made signs to put on the wall that list our resolutions (great idea right, ok fine it was her idea!!)
This resolution is my vow to God! In accordance with Psalm 61:8 “Then will I ever sing praise to Your Name and fulfill my vows day after day”.
In 2010 I vow to:
Pursue Righteousness (refer to Matthew 5 and Psalms 119)
Simplify my life
Become a prayer warrior and step my prayer game up (January through March- prayer endeavor, pray the divine hours throughout the year, pray that Psalms, and have more intimate time with the Father)
Love life with Gabriella (live it, love it, and express it)
Live with missional courage and imagination (Acting Out-ACTS, 1st Century Apostle attitude, newsworthy “epic” life, daily ask what God would have me to do)
More relational (spend time with friends actually hanging out rather than meetings and such)
Do P90X with Gabriella (yeah, ask her about that one!!)
Accomplish more Bucket List ideas
These are my vows before you (the reader) and God, in the name of Christ Jesus.
X.) Michael Miano
Also, will be going out today with the endeavor of using the resolution concept to get others to make resolutions and hear the gospel! Pray for Christ to blast His awesome power through 2010!
Also, checkout the latest on Acting Out- ACTS
http://www.weebly.com/weebly/main.php#
This resolution is my vow to God! In accordance with Psalm 61:8 “Then will I ever sing praise to Your Name and fulfill my vows day after day”.
In 2010 I vow to:
Pursue Righteousness (refer to Matthew 5 and Psalms 119)
Simplify my life
Become a prayer warrior and step my prayer game up (January through March- prayer endeavor, pray the divine hours throughout the year, pray that Psalms, and have more intimate time with the Father)
Love life with Gabriella (live it, love it, and express it)
Live with missional courage and imagination (Acting Out-ACTS, 1st Century Apostle attitude, newsworthy “epic” life, daily ask what God would have me to do)
More relational (spend time with friends actually hanging out rather than meetings and such)
Do P90X with Gabriella (yeah, ask her about that one!!)
Accomplish more Bucket List ideas
These are my vows before you (the reader) and God, in the name of Christ Jesus.
X.) Michael Miano
Also, will be going out today with the endeavor of using the resolution concept to get others to make resolutions and hear the gospel! Pray for Christ to blast His awesome power through 2010!
Also, checkout the latest on Acting Out- ACTS
http://www.weebly.com/weebly/main.php#
Sunday, January 3, 2010
End of 2009 Re-cap
The year 2009, started with plans to start Freaked-Out Fellowship as a ministry endeavor. As I was still working through ideas with the Tribe of Dan Ministry. Looking back at notes from March, my main concern was the strategy and over all idea of the Tribe of Dan. I was beginning to feel as if we were too busy trying to create or build a ministry, when our calling is to DO ministry.
Also, another common theme I see dating back to March 2009, was the search and enhancing of my calling in the Kingdom of God. I had written “Goal- To help people find themselves and express it”. A great impacting throughout those times was the podcasts from Elevation Church.
A Spirit-filled message I received through prayer in April 2009, was “Be prepared for when the blessings come, the vision manifests, because much will be required”. That was an answer to my concerns about my calling, personal ministry work, and even the overall vision. I know the Lord is still at work in me in an effort to build Godly character.
By the end of April 2009, I began to put serious thought into the planning of Freaked-Out Fellowship, and was using Pastor Matt Keller’s book, Up The Middle Church, as a reference guide. A great mentor into my Christian walk was Pastor Alex from First Assembly of God, Fort Myers. He provided so much counseling and discussion time to push me further as a man of God. (I just realized he introduced me to the ministry of Francis Chan, but yet I read Crazy Love before he did, how ironic, ha ha ha).
In May, I had a meeting with pastor Matt Keller from Next Level Church, concerning the start up of Freaked-Out Fellowship. He offered advice into seeking my calling and also gave me the push to start up FOF. Also, Mark Batterson podcast’s were a valuable resource!
In June, I decided to embark on a book of Acts commentary idea. I have to sideline many other Spirit-filled leaders who promise that if you read through the book of Acts as a follower of Christ, you will be renewed, strengthened, and challenged!! I still talk about that journey today, and have my notes listed on the Freaked-Out Fellowship webpage (http://www.freakedoutfellowship.weebly.com).
June 22,2009 I gave my own definition to the term “Jesus Freak”- “let all that is in me out for the glory of God”! woohoo! Glory to God in the highest! Much respect and admiration for DC TALK and Voice of the Martyrs for the music and books. Also, in June thanks to the podcasts by Mark Batterson, I developed my “bucket list”. Still at work, slow and steady. Some things I have fulfilled since making it would be:
Open-Air preaching, Creating a street evangelism team, buy something for a complete stranger, become the guy who will talk to anyone, read through the message Bible (New Testament), eat a meal with the homeless, go to church dressed like a prophet, find and thank a teacher for all that they did for me, try Ezekiel Bread, Preach door to door…To be continued.
As far as those goals I could see myself doing this year:
Visit a monastery, have children (ha ha ha just playing Gabriella, not yet..), preach in prison, pray daily times of prayer, go on a cruise with Gabriella, go to the Holy Land Experience, do a 40 day fast, help and witness Gabriella with a bucket list, witness a NT miracle, attend a leadership conference, take Gabriella on an awesome adventure, raise $ for a charity, run/walk a marathon for a cause, visit a new monastic environment. WISH ME LUCK!!!
My personal mission statement developed as “Creating ( or building up) Jesus Freaks”.
Around the middle of the year, I began to meet with an awesome group of guys to study through the Truth Project. We developed relationships and had conversations that will impact eternity! (Shout out to Rob, Paul, Mark, and Cha, we can include Joe as well!)
Gabriella and I, had an awesome year. We experienced a lot of growth, through times of blessing and times of trial. Many people have posed the concept of marriage to us, and that alone has provided area for growth. We continue on as a happy couple, going through the life in LOVE.
When I first came to Christ, I experienced a lot of dreams. I still have a small journal that I had kept record. As I venture through this years thoughts and notes, I realize I haven’t had too many dream occurrences. October 7, 2009, I left a note concerning a series of dreams I had in response to a prayer of God making clear what I should be doing. 1st dream- Proclaim was the word of the day and I defined it. 2nd dream- I was a witness in a courtroom trial. 3rd dream- woke up and started to get ready 3 hours before I had to, couldn’t stop thinking about urgency. PROCLAIM, WITNESS, URGENCY!
Looking through notes of October and November, I see a common theme. Basically, a discontentment with the state of the Church, and our lack of true follower-ship. A study into New Monasticism as well as re-occurring thoughts into the life of the Apostles had caused this. Noticing that we, as the body of Christ, have compromised the mission and the gospel. Thinking through ideas of the persecuted church also had impacted this.
Late November and heading into December, up until now, has been a journey into defining discipleship. I am currently working on some ideas for re-creating discipleship in the lives of believers and non-believers. Acting Out- ACTS!
Look forward to New Year resolutions!
Great books I read in 09’:
The Renegades Guide to God by David Foster
The Unexpected Adventure by Lee Strobel and Mark Mittelberg
The Gospel According to Starbucks
Holy Ambition by Chip Ingram
The Soul Winner by Charles Spurgeon
Primal by Mark Batterson
And finishing off the year with, The Year of Living Like Jesus by Ed Dobson.
Also, another common theme I see dating back to March 2009, was the search and enhancing of my calling in the Kingdom of God. I had written “Goal- To help people find themselves and express it”. A great impacting throughout those times was the podcasts from Elevation Church.
A Spirit-filled message I received through prayer in April 2009, was “Be prepared for when the blessings come, the vision manifests, because much will be required”. That was an answer to my concerns about my calling, personal ministry work, and even the overall vision. I know the Lord is still at work in me in an effort to build Godly character.
By the end of April 2009, I began to put serious thought into the planning of Freaked-Out Fellowship, and was using Pastor Matt Keller’s book, Up The Middle Church, as a reference guide. A great mentor into my Christian walk was Pastor Alex from First Assembly of God, Fort Myers. He provided so much counseling and discussion time to push me further as a man of God. (I just realized he introduced me to the ministry of Francis Chan, but yet I read Crazy Love before he did, how ironic, ha ha ha).
In May, I had a meeting with pastor Matt Keller from Next Level Church, concerning the start up of Freaked-Out Fellowship. He offered advice into seeking my calling and also gave me the push to start up FOF. Also, Mark Batterson podcast’s were a valuable resource!
In June, I decided to embark on a book of Acts commentary idea. I have to sideline many other Spirit-filled leaders who promise that if you read through the book of Acts as a follower of Christ, you will be renewed, strengthened, and challenged!! I still talk about that journey today, and have my notes listed on the Freaked-Out Fellowship webpage (http://www.freakedoutfellowship.weebly.com).
June 22,2009 I gave my own definition to the term “Jesus Freak”- “let all that is in me out for the glory of God”! woohoo! Glory to God in the highest! Much respect and admiration for DC TALK and Voice of the Martyrs for the music and books. Also, in June thanks to the podcasts by Mark Batterson, I developed my “bucket list”. Still at work, slow and steady. Some things I have fulfilled since making it would be:
Open-Air preaching, Creating a street evangelism team, buy something for a complete stranger, become the guy who will talk to anyone, read through the message Bible (New Testament), eat a meal with the homeless, go to church dressed like a prophet, find and thank a teacher for all that they did for me, try Ezekiel Bread, Preach door to door…To be continued.
As far as those goals I could see myself doing this year:
Visit a monastery, have children (ha ha ha just playing Gabriella, not yet..), preach in prison, pray daily times of prayer, go on a cruise with Gabriella, go to the Holy Land Experience, do a 40 day fast, help and witness Gabriella with a bucket list, witness a NT miracle, attend a leadership conference, take Gabriella on an awesome adventure, raise $ for a charity, run/walk a marathon for a cause, visit a new monastic environment. WISH ME LUCK!!!
My personal mission statement developed as “Creating ( or building up) Jesus Freaks”.
Around the middle of the year, I began to meet with an awesome group of guys to study through the Truth Project. We developed relationships and had conversations that will impact eternity! (Shout out to Rob, Paul, Mark, and Cha, we can include Joe as well!)
Gabriella and I, had an awesome year. We experienced a lot of growth, through times of blessing and times of trial. Many people have posed the concept of marriage to us, and that alone has provided area for growth. We continue on as a happy couple, going through the life in LOVE.
When I first came to Christ, I experienced a lot of dreams. I still have a small journal that I had kept record. As I venture through this years thoughts and notes, I realize I haven’t had too many dream occurrences. October 7, 2009, I left a note concerning a series of dreams I had in response to a prayer of God making clear what I should be doing. 1st dream- Proclaim was the word of the day and I defined it. 2nd dream- I was a witness in a courtroom trial. 3rd dream- woke up and started to get ready 3 hours before I had to, couldn’t stop thinking about urgency. PROCLAIM, WITNESS, URGENCY!
Looking through notes of October and November, I see a common theme. Basically, a discontentment with the state of the Church, and our lack of true follower-ship. A study into New Monasticism as well as re-occurring thoughts into the life of the Apostles had caused this. Noticing that we, as the body of Christ, have compromised the mission and the gospel. Thinking through ideas of the persecuted church also had impacted this.
Late November and heading into December, up until now, has been a journey into defining discipleship. I am currently working on some ideas for re-creating discipleship in the lives of believers and non-believers. Acting Out- ACTS!
Look forward to New Year resolutions!
Great books I read in 09’:
The Renegades Guide to God by David Foster
The Unexpected Adventure by Lee Strobel and Mark Mittelberg
The Gospel According to Starbucks
Holy Ambition by Chip Ingram
The Soul Winner by Charles Spurgeon
Primal by Mark Batterson
And finishing off the year with, The Year of Living Like Jesus by Ed Dobson.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
The Intension of Mission in New York (and some other thoughts)
The Intension of Mission in New York
This last week, I visited New York. Gabriella and I went to see friends and family, but I wanted to follow Christ for the Spirit of Christmas. I decided I wanted to go to NYC and spend time with the homeless.
“In the poor we find Jesus in His most distressing of disguises” – Mother Teresa
This idea started with the concept of spending three days on the streets of Manhattan. I had many ideas from open air preaching, loving on the homeless, and other books of Acts activities. As the weeks closed in on the time I would be going, plans got changed and I had to go for 2 nights in NYC. Still had all the anticipation in the world!
Finally, the day came. A friend of mine had said he wanted to join me, and I took this as a perfect opportunity to share the gospel and work toward discipleship. So, that day he decided not to wake up until 4pm. At the train station we met with some Christians evangelists who offered prayer and the million dollar bill tracts. So all in all, we ended up getting out there by 7pm.
As we set foot in NYC, I felt a sense of discouragement. I struggled against it and said I have committed myself to mission. We met a man who was raising money for a homeless charity, he himself was homeless. We talked with him for a while, shared testimonies (He had more faith than many Christians I know). Then, I met a man at McDonalds. He was very much in a hurry and just wanted $5 to get something to eat, so I gave him the money, asked his name, and prayed for him. (His name was really long and hard to pronounce- I know him as the guy who kind of looked like Borat).
As the time went on, I just didn’t feel the push like I originally had. I remember walking quietly behind my group of friends, and praying “But God I checked my motives, my attitude, and the concept makes perfect sense, where is the “Holy Spirit shove”?
We stayed in NYC until 3am that night, yes it was freezing, very bearable though.
That night I prayed and cried to God, why didn’t this go as planned? That was it!
“In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps (Proverbs 16:9)”.
Quite humbling. Just when I think I have been humbled enough by the Lord, He continues to showing me it is Him who is Lord. Thanks be to God!
My Personal Survey of the Homeless People in NYC
To be quite honest, the homeless seem to be going at things pretty well. Most the homeless people in New York City are working as boosters or asking for change, quite boldly might I add. This trip I didn’t not see not even 1 sign that the homeless are famous for, as compared to the sign I bought right here in Fort Myers, Fl, from a homeless man.
I would extend thanks and support to the churches and outreaches in NYC that seem to be caring well for the homeless and the needs.
A Letter to My Friends and other Long Islanders
This past week I spent time on Long Island. I write this with the intension of sharing my thoughts during this trip.
Before I ventured to NY, I prayed that God would give me the wisdom to act in the ways needed to further the Gospel in the lives of my friends and loved ones. One particular thought that came to mind was that I needed to be relatable. In the words of Scripture, “All this to all men, that way I might save a few (I Corinthians 9:22-23)”. Last visit, I somewhat distanced myself, this visit I would “hang out”.
We had some good times and some rough times. But as I began to drive home, entering into the state of New Jersey, I began to think, “Did I make it serious enough? Today is the day of salvation!”
My heart and insight for Long Island is this:
You all need an elevated mindset. I wish I could take you into the Spiritual realm and show you why certain things you are doing and not doing just don’t make much sense. There is so much more. I can’t help but feel as if many of you are just getting by rather than truly living life. You only have one life to live, and I’m not talking about going “buck wild” but what about the greater things in life. Don’t push off importance until tomorrow.
Jesus Christ said “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life…” There is another way to do life, there is another truth to understand, and more purpose-filled life to be lived.
Really..Look around? Heroin Epidemic, job loss, everyone making babies,….etc,
What do you have to lose?
The Million Dollar Question
The million dollar question is: Where will you go when you die?
Many Christian evangelists use these million dollar bills as gospel tracts and I would like to add some detail. I myself, have taken a vow to no longer just hand out tracts that have the whole you are a sinner, repent, and be saved “gospel” on them. The gospel of Jesus Christ has a lot more to say than just you are a sinner, repent and be saved. Actually, the good news is that even thought you will always be a sinner, there is another way to live. We do need to repent, and live a life through missional transformation. The gospel truly is: there is abundant life in following Christ and being transformed and renewed as you follow Him.
We need to add the abundant life aspect and follow-ship to the gospel when we hand out these tracts or else we are misleading the lost.
I have blogged about this view of the gospel before:
http://newsfromthetribe.blogspot.com/2009/11/what-is-this.html
This last week, I visited New York. Gabriella and I went to see friends and family, but I wanted to follow Christ for the Spirit of Christmas. I decided I wanted to go to NYC and spend time with the homeless.
“In the poor we find Jesus in His most distressing of disguises” – Mother Teresa
This idea started with the concept of spending three days on the streets of Manhattan. I had many ideas from open air preaching, loving on the homeless, and other books of Acts activities. As the weeks closed in on the time I would be going, plans got changed and I had to go for 2 nights in NYC. Still had all the anticipation in the world!
Finally, the day came. A friend of mine had said he wanted to join me, and I took this as a perfect opportunity to share the gospel and work toward discipleship. So, that day he decided not to wake up until 4pm. At the train station we met with some Christians evangelists who offered prayer and the million dollar bill tracts. So all in all, we ended up getting out there by 7pm.
As we set foot in NYC, I felt a sense of discouragement. I struggled against it and said I have committed myself to mission. We met a man who was raising money for a homeless charity, he himself was homeless. We talked with him for a while, shared testimonies (He had more faith than many Christians I know). Then, I met a man at McDonalds. He was very much in a hurry and just wanted $5 to get something to eat, so I gave him the money, asked his name, and prayed for him. (His name was really long and hard to pronounce- I know him as the guy who kind of looked like Borat).
As the time went on, I just didn’t feel the push like I originally had. I remember walking quietly behind my group of friends, and praying “But God I checked my motives, my attitude, and the concept makes perfect sense, where is the “Holy Spirit shove”?
We stayed in NYC until 3am that night, yes it was freezing, very bearable though.
That night I prayed and cried to God, why didn’t this go as planned? That was it!
“In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps (Proverbs 16:9)”.
Quite humbling. Just when I think I have been humbled enough by the Lord, He continues to showing me it is Him who is Lord. Thanks be to God!
My Personal Survey of the Homeless People in NYC
To be quite honest, the homeless seem to be going at things pretty well. Most the homeless people in New York City are working as boosters or asking for change, quite boldly might I add. This trip I didn’t not see not even 1 sign that the homeless are famous for, as compared to the sign I bought right here in Fort Myers, Fl, from a homeless man.
I would extend thanks and support to the churches and outreaches in NYC that seem to be caring well for the homeless and the needs.
A Letter to My Friends and other Long Islanders
This past week I spent time on Long Island. I write this with the intension of sharing my thoughts during this trip.
Before I ventured to NY, I prayed that God would give me the wisdom to act in the ways needed to further the Gospel in the lives of my friends and loved ones. One particular thought that came to mind was that I needed to be relatable. In the words of Scripture, “All this to all men, that way I might save a few (I Corinthians 9:22-23)”. Last visit, I somewhat distanced myself, this visit I would “hang out”.
We had some good times and some rough times. But as I began to drive home, entering into the state of New Jersey, I began to think, “Did I make it serious enough? Today is the day of salvation!”
My heart and insight for Long Island is this:
You all need an elevated mindset. I wish I could take you into the Spiritual realm and show you why certain things you are doing and not doing just don’t make much sense. There is so much more. I can’t help but feel as if many of you are just getting by rather than truly living life. You only have one life to live, and I’m not talking about going “buck wild” but what about the greater things in life. Don’t push off importance until tomorrow.
Jesus Christ said “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life…” There is another way to do life, there is another truth to understand, and more purpose-filled life to be lived.
Really..Look around? Heroin Epidemic, job loss, everyone making babies,….etc,
What do you have to lose?
The Million Dollar Question
The million dollar question is: Where will you go when you die?
Many Christian evangelists use these million dollar bills as gospel tracts and I would like to add some detail. I myself, have taken a vow to no longer just hand out tracts that have the whole you are a sinner, repent, and be saved “gospel” on them. The gospel of Jesus Christ has a lot more to say than just you are a sinner, repent and be saved. Actually, the good news is that even thought you will always be a sinner, there is another way to live. We do need to repent, and live a life through missional transformation. The gospel truly is: there is abundant life in following Christ and being transformed and renewed as you follow Him.
We need to add the abundant life aspect and follow-ship to the gospel when we hand out these tracts or else we are misleading the lost.
I have blogged about this view of the gospel before:
http://newsfromthetribe.blogspot.com/2009/11/what-is-this.html
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