Voices of Faith

Who are the voices that America listens to today? There are all kinds of them. Unfortunately, as we discussed @ last weekend's New Venture Celebration Services, the problem is some of the voices we are hearing from today have an anti-Biblical and/or anti-God view.

The good news is millions of others embrace faith and are proudly living it out! Many are on-fire in their faith or have recently been impacted by a believer who either shared their faith or showed it by attitude and/or behavior. Do you know which ones in this list fit that category?

The words that matter don't come from Celebrities- but rather, from the Word of God- the Bible. He is the same yesterday, today and forever. Those are words you can bank on and trust your life with!

Many Blessings on you today.



Pastor Shawn

Happy Marriage… and Life Guys!

Before I start this, let me wipe the tears off the page. (Just joking. Not!) I’m still smiling. Today, I married off my son. Shawn Joel Mitchell Jr. got married today (Sept 19, 2015).

There are very few moments in life, where - in the moment - you know you are experiencing one of your life’s most memorable & amazing personal experiences. That was today!

My son of 23 years – only child and namesake – absolutely blessed me and had me so proud. He married a nice, wonderful and Godly young woman named Eva, and Shawn’s mother Laurie and I couldn’t be happier. Whenever I am around Eva, I think to myself, “I’m looking at a miracle!” Laurie prayed for her son’s eventual wife since he was a little boy. And God sure delivered. We pray for long lives, happiness and God being the center of their lives (and, Lord wiling, their future children’s lives together).

Now… for us. What are Laurie and I going to do around the house?! No more noise, typhoon-blown bedroom, sudden depletion of refrigerator food. Sheesh… I’ve got to get used to this “Empty-nester” thing. But hey, I was told that Barnes & Noble has got some great books on getting through the empty-nest change. That’s good to know! Couldn’t be happier for them… but got to admit… a slight twinge of  melancholy… and a little sadness. You see, Shawn Jr. was more than a son – he was and is – my friend. And one of the finest and truly nicest human beings I’ve ever known. Thank you Lord, for allowing Laurie and I to have him on “borrow” for 20+ years.

The Bible says that a longing fulfilled is sweet to the soul. [Proverbs 13:9] A parent always envisions and prays for their child(ren)’s happiness. Today that vision was fulfilled. Whether it is for a loved one’s happiness, some prayed over answered prayer or a dream God has given you that you see coming to fruition, the sweetness that comes through fulfilled vision makes the journey worth it. Whatever may have brought you happiness today -- that’s come from Him -- let’s be sure to thank Him.

Well, pretty soon – I’ll go fire up the grill… and get Laurie to join me and start praying for grandkids. Wow – this “life” thing sure has its moments. Today… was one of the absolute BEST!! 

Happy marriage and life guys. We love you!

Football, Family & Faith: The Fall Season is Here

There’s something special about the Fall. For me it’s the best time of year.  I could say it’s the slight chill in the air, and the beginning of the changing of leaves- but that wouldn’t be accurate. Being a native-born San Diegan, I’ve hardly seen any seasonal color changes in leaves in my entire life. But what I can tell you makes the fall my unquestioned favorite season of the year is football, family (the holidays) and the Lord (not that He’s seasonal). It’s just easy to identify Him in breezes through trees, cumulous clouds and clear night skies!

I’m also thrilled about all of the plans New Venture Christian Fellowship has for the coming season.  Programs, activities & events geared for individuals and families. I am convinced God is going to use them to touch thousands in our church and surrounding community. I hear it everywhere- there’s a buzz around New Venture right now.  I just love being around our church family!

On September 26 & 27 we will have a special guest joining us at New Venture- national speaker and Faith & Fitness expert Kim Leto. I heard her testimony and knew that she would be a blessing to the New Venture Family.  (Click here  to see a brief interview).  She will speak to us on Spiritual Fitness and bless us with her passion for Faith Inspired Transformation. Don’t miss it.

Ecclesiastes 2:25 says, “For without him, who could eat and find enjoyment?” at New Venture we find our in enjoyment in Him, His blessings and gathering together. Today in prayer, spend some time thinking about the joy found in the Lord.

Yep, the fall season, there’s nothing like it-a time to harvest, a time to gather together and a time to reflect on the goodness of the Lord.

May God bless you and yours, 

Pastor Shawn

Real Men...Pray?

Academy Award winning actor Denzel Washington believes that a good way to make sure you pray every morning is to place your shoes “way under the bed at night.” Doing that, he says, ensures that you “gotta get on your knees in the morning.”

In an inspirational speech to a group of young actors, Denzel encouraged the group of student actors to use their talent for good and never forget to pray.

“I pray that you all put your shoes way under the bed at night so that you gotta get on your knees in the morning to find them. And while you’re down there thank God for grace, mercy and understanding. If you just start thinking of all the things you’ve got to say thank you for, that’s a day. That’s easily a full day!” he said.

Give thanks to Jesus, for He is good. Today in prayer, spend some extra time “looking for your shoes under the bed” and thank the Lord for all His many blessings.

Sometimes we focus so much on what we don’t have that we fail to see, appreciate, and use what we do have!

Enjoy these amazing photos from last weekend’s incredible Thanksgiving Sunday Supper (click here) which turned out to be one of the largest, biggest and best that New Venture has sponsored. With hundreds upon hundreds of meals served to the homeless, seniors and military, with haircuts, free clothing, & a terrific time experienced by all. Thank you New Venture for making a lasting difference in the lives of so many!

May God Bless you and yours, with a very HAPPY THANKSGIVING!


Pastor Shawn

What's Your Spiritual Fitness Plan?

I can't adequately express my excitement, as we dive into God's Word this weekend @NVCF and begin a brand new series, entitled "24 HOUR WITNESS". Sounds familiar, doesn't it? However, our focus will be about developing our faith and growing in spiritual fitness!! Through the years, I have met many who have been burdened by having a desire to see family members and friends experience the love, hope and assurance found in a vital relationship with God through his son Jesus Christ. If that is you, and you'd like to learn Biblical, practical and effective tools to share Christ both through "your walk and your talk"; you'll want to join us beginning this weekend, for a verse by verse study through the Old Testament book of Haggai. I'm convinced – you're gonna love it. It's the perfect book and series to dig into right before the holidays. New Venture Welcomes Peter Kennedy Pastor Peter Kennedy joins the New Venture team, specializing in  Small Groups It's thrilling to have so many hundreds of you involved in NV's Small Group Network. So many are involved, that the Lord has also provided a full-time Pastor to oversee this vital ministry. Peter Kennedy comes from an amazing background of ministry and secular employment. He has desired to be a part of the NV Team for years now and as he retires from over 20 years of Military and Civil Service, he joins us full-time, starting this weekend. We'll be briefly introducing him this weekend as well. No doubt, you're definitely going to find him a NV 'fit'. I write this out of gratefulness for you and our church family. Looking forward to gathering together on campus where there's always a place for you.  Pastor Shawn

25 YEARS – HAPPY ANNIVERSARY!

Happy Anniversary!!

It’s taken forever... yet it feels like it’s happened overnight! That’s how it feels watching and working with God, as He took a handful of people (7), on Oct. 1st, 1989 on a "new venture" in starting a church for Him - with no members, money, in a city new to all of us - Oceanside – with no place to call "Home" to "do" church.

From that day - to 10’s of 1000’s of lives, unimaginable blessings, surprises and miracles later.HAPPY ANNIVERSARY NEW VENTURE!! Today – October 1st, 2014, we’re 25 years old as a church and ministry.

25 Down... and 25 More To Go

I’m halfway there!! I told the Lord – if He allows my health to hold up – I’d love to give Him 25 more. Imagine what He has in store, and where He could take all of us in the next 25!!! I think about in 2039 I'll be ready to retire.. but not a day sooner!

People – not Buildings, is What Makes Church... "Home"

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY – and a special thanks to you and EVERYONE who has had anything to do with what the Lord has accomplished through the years. Whether you are attending now, or have been a part of the ministry at anytime in the past – without your prayers, giving, service and sacrifice... His Church wouldn’t be what it has become today. Without you... we wouldn’t be us. A special, heartfelt thanks to all of you, for all you have done, whenever you have done it... to make us - "US."

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY NEW VENTURE. It’s Day One again. We’re moving on. Day One...
let’s GO!!

A Prayer for Our Next 25

"Lord, right now I pray for your immeasurable blessings, protection, spirit, and a rushing wind across the land to the sea, that brings people Home. An awesome and amazing God you are! We love you... thank You!"

What’s Next @ NV

Be sure to read below of some of the many opportunities to help make this one of the finest Fall Seasons with God and others - that you’ve ever experienced.

This weekend it’s our Communion Sunday, with heartfelt, powerful Worship and an intriguing message on RELATIONSHIPS through the Book of Ephesians. Read Ephe. 5:22-33 on theDifferences between the Sexes, entitled: The Difference Between You and Me.

One requirement: Don’t come alone. Pray someone in and invite them out. They’ll come because you are.

Marching into the next 25 with Him... and you.

See you this weekend!

Rose of Sharon: Here today, Gone tomorrow...but it matters to God.

As summer draws to a close, I can’t help but be excited on many levels. Oxford Preparatory Academy is piling in with moving boxes ready for 300+ students descending on the campus next month. The staff’s in a buzz ready to welcome them – some of which are getting their own kids ready for the first day of school, so I can't decide who's most excited about this “new venture"... parents, kids or me, simply for what God has done to provide greater education to more families on this campus. Get ready for all that this season is about to bring...

What else does the summer wind-down mean? We’re getting back into Relationships Sept 7th. Just as you settle back into your regular post-summer routines at home, we get back to biz here looking at what Ephesians has for us next that we can carry into our homes, workplaces and neighborhoods.

But before we get into “what’s next” I want to take a second with “what was” because of the incredible summer of ministry and growth God blessed us with. We always say “church was never meant to be boring,” and the past few months at New Venture were anything but!

We've added new ministries that are strong and growing going into the fall. Venture Riders came back from their debut ride with pictures that confirm two things: 1). I won’t be joining them on the highways any time soon. 2). Hhow important and fulfilling it is to find and build healthy RELATIONSHIPS with shared interests, even if your interests runs at 75MPH on two wheels. Helping Hands’ Bread of Life and Sock It To Me ministries have been unstoppable these past few months with monthly outings locally, and sending Outreachers across the border to the Rosarito Mexico Orphanage to dig wells, make repairs, play games with the kids and #LoveLikeJesus.

Combine the excitement of all the above, and you have this summer’s All Church Beach Baptism where dozens took a dive for Jesus in perfect weather despite forecast of rain. Not a drop fell, but Christ’s love poured all day. There was incredible joy in the waves; a testimony in action for all those watching from boogie boards and jet skis; friendships formed over a smoking BBQ, volleyball, tugofwar... It was an incredible day, and it was family.

"The harvest is past, the summer has ended, and we are not saved."
-- Jeremiah 8:20

Though summer may feel like it’s coming to an end, these things and more lay a foundation for an "All In, All the Time" Autumn: How are you doing with your journaling? With ITEL commitments? With 24/7 living through “Asah Shamah” (“by doing God’s Word, we grow in understanding” Exodus 24:7)? If you’re experiencing a whole new season of our Lord, that’s great. That’s the plan and it’s also His promise when we seek after more of Him. But even if, to quote Charles Barkley, you’re doing “turrible," it is NEVER too late to kick into 24/7, and it’s always the right time to take an extra step toward living the life He planned for you. Stop by the 24/7 page on the New Venture website for a refresher course on what ITEL is all about, plus, you can find your year-long Bible reading plan there. Whenever you’re reading this, TODAY would be a great day to start fresh.

A great example of this, is the tree you see in the photo above: It only has a few flowers left because it only blooms in summer...and each one lasts only ONE DAY. This Rose of Sharon is planted behind the church where I see it every weekend coming to service, reminding me that "God's going to do a new thing today." In the Bible, Christ is (vaguely) referred to as the “Rose of Sharon,” which you'll find in many hymns and song lyrics. The original Biblical reference was for a different flower, more of a crocus or "lowly field flower," and "Sharon" is the Mediterranean coastal plain between Joppa and Caesarea. But on this shrub, the one-day-only buds of summer have been so illustrative to me of the always new and perfect works that God is doing EVERY DAY in the hearts and lives of the people in our community -- perfect in its purpose for that day, but immediately ready for the next day’s plan…and the next, and the next…

While this tree is done at the end of summer, God is just getting warmed up in what He has for you and His church. He never rests. His love “never ceases” and His mercies “never come to an end.” (Lamentations 3:22-23) Like the Rose of Sharon, they’re “new every morning,” which means it’s in our court to “decide today who you will serve.” (Joshua 24:15)

Together, let's make this an All-In Autumn.
Until the whole world knows,
Pastor Shawn

And Grace Will Lead [You] Home: What We Can Learn from Leaders Like Tony Gwynn

This evening I watched the entire Tony Gwynn memorial as it was broadcast on network television here in San Diego. I’m not writing about it from a sports perspective, though as sports headlines go, this was arguably one of the most inspiring careers and post-career legacies to watch. I’m specifically writing tonight because of how God got the Glory once again.
                This memorial never made it 5 minutes without a testimony of some sort – whether outright praise, prayer or thanksgiving to God and to a Christian man for his example, or simply the “positive" influence of a guy who did his best to live his live for Christ with the gifts he’d been given.
                At New Venture, we’re going through a 2-year commitment of focusing even more on  living out what we believe “24/7,” and one of the four main areas is learning to more successfully #LoveLikeJesus. Even if you’re no sports fan and don’t know the difference between a decent fast pitch or these famous flops (http://tinyurl.com/worstfirsts), we can learn a lot about the #LoveLikeJesus principle from “Number 19.”
                Most know Gwynn as “Mr. Padre”or even “Mr. San Diego,” but those who knew him best might say it was more like “Mr. Jesus” because he made no secret of his faith. Instead, he made Christ known as the foundation for everything he did. Named one of the “top 100 Black Christian athletes of all time” Gwynn knew that no matter what his stats, in the end, “only what’s done for Christ will last” (Mttw 19-21 paraphrase).  Before the term “Jesus Freak” was turned around in the early 80s and “reclaimed” by Christians as a badge of honor, it was originally intended as an insult. A slur. Tony never saw being associated with the God of the Bible as something to hide or play down. He wore it more proudly than the Padres uniform he never traded in.  
                Now that final scores have all been tallied, we see what a legacy like this can leave behind. More than 23 thousand packed Petco Park to celebrate not just a Hall of Famer, but a personal inspiration. Not just “one of baseball’s most accomplished hitters” but a guy who hit it out of the park with nearly everyone he came into contact with. At the close of the service, every light in the park was turned out except for a glowing #19. The symbolism was intentional: here was a guy who had let his light “so shine” that you couldn’t miss it if you tried. And in the dark, with only voices, 23 thousand sang Amazing Grace and the story was complete. Career long over, impact ongoing serving the community every day, but most of all, it was the Amazing Grace at work in Tony Gwynn that made the only lasting difference. At the very end, saying a final goodbye, they repeated only one line: “And Grace will lead me home.” …It did indeed.
                May we all be a lasting light shining in the darkness, in whatever our own personal ballpark, and may God’s Amazing Grace lead you too, home to Him.
(http://tinyurl.com/AmazingGraceGwynn)

If You Walk Like A Duck

This week’s Life Tool from “Enhancing My Relationships,” is a simple test to check if you’re applying Biblical Wisdom in your situation or if maybe you’re nudging things a little bit based on personal or worldly motivations.

In our series “All In All the Time,” James just won’t let us rest in any area of our lives as God is using this book of the Bible to upturn every corner and gray area and give us the tools to actually walk the talk when we say “All In All the Time.”

The Bible says there is a difference between “wisdom” and “knowledge.” James 2:19 reminds and warns us, that even the demons BELIEVE. Knowledge by its self won’t get you farther than the demons. It’s what you do with that knowledge. It’s conviction, and a deep desire to drive in God’s direction.

One of the most effective tools is all packed in one single verse in James 3:17. It’s your litmus test for weighing the integrity of your wisdom and checking if the way you’re going is indeed God’s way. "Weigh the Way." My son watches The TV show Cops like it’s training tape, and they have this roadside test to confirm drug substances – just a simple swab that turns purple. Within this verse we can get a “purple” response on our spiritual swab when we’re testing the substance of our Biblical wisdom.

"...The wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere." -James 3:17

So let's break this down: First and foremost, is your action, direction or perspective pure – not compromised, fully in alignment with His character and ways and coming from pure motivations?

Then, does it pass all the tests in this Scripture:

1. Does it lead to / create / ensure peace?
2. Is it considerate, submissive, merciful?
3. Will it lead to good spiritual fruit or spiritual growth for you and any relationships involved?
4. Is it totally impartial and sincerely motivated -- not biased by self or “emotionally” fueled by others’ desires, but only by His desire as set forth in His Word?

If it has all of the above chances are, it's good, Godly Biblical Wisdom.

ON THE OTHER HAND, if it doesn’t pass every single one of those checkmarks then…. There is no “chances are.” If it's in conflict with ANYTHING in this Scripture, that is your guarantee that it is NOT Godly wisdom and you can be COMPLETELY SURE it’s going to move you in the wrong direction.

It’s simple, straightforward and true. You may want to say, “yes but there are gray areas…or extenuating circumstances…or God knows my situation…” but if we’re truly committed to doing God’s Word – living Asah Shamah 24/7 – we have to stick to the knowledge that Godly wisdom is made up of His character and if it resembles anything other than his image, it’s just not of Him.

 

You’ve heard the saying, “if it walks like a duck and talks like a duck, it must be a duck.” Well, if your walk is like His image and your talk is like His Word...then you must be a duck who is paddling in the right direction. There is no lukewarm … there’s just in or out. And if you choose to be in with Him, then it’s just another inch to go “All In All The Time.”

I encourage you to seek daily the Wisdom that can only be His and if you think it’s hard to find, it’s not…simply check it against His Word.

Until the Whole World Knows,

SM

 

Asah Shamah -- The formula that's changing our church, our lives...

24/7 -- What "All In All the Time" Really Means

Super Bowl Sunday – Why We Do It

{Published in Refreshed Magazine}

This month America arrived at another Super Bowl. Despite threats of blackout, and controversy over the trademarked use of “Super Bowl,” (“that big game in New Jersey?”), and the Chargers’ close call that has so many still crying in their salsa, one thing is for sure: We were watching.

But what is it that draws so many, so faithfully, for so long? Many tune in as much for the commercial ads and halftime show, as for the game. Super Bowl Sunday in America is now considered the nation’s top unofficial holiday. Many tune in as much for the commercial ads and halftime show, as for the game. Super Bowl Sunday in America is now considered the nation’s top unofficial holiday.

It’s been said that “football is a game played by 22 men in desperate need of rest… and watched by 60,000 people in desperate need of exercise.” True? Probably. Especially the part that “football is… watched.”

During any given NFL season, the top 10 watched shows of that year will be NFL games broadcast in homes and on smart phones, tablets and iPads of tens of millions of rabid fans, cheering on their favorite team, all of it leading up to the greatest of them all – the Super Bowl.

Chances are – you’ll be watching from somewhere… and you’ll most likely not be watching alone, as the Big Game is the #1 “at home event of the year” with 125 million viewers. No wonder 30-second commercial ads now cost $4 million. There is a lot at stake. Not only for the two teams on the field… but for the corporate advertisers who want to attract your attention…and your wallet.  

In fact, nationwide, the average “population” of a Super Bowl gathering will be 17. With an estimated consumption of 15,000 tons of chips, 4000 tons of popcorn and 12 million pounds of avocados (that’s a lot of guacamole!), it’s no wonder there will be a 20% increase in antacids sold the day after the game.

Why do we do it? Why the popularity? 3 reasons: Community, Activity and Escape.

Community: When God said that “It is not good for man to be alone…” (Gen. 2:18), He was not only referring to the institution of marriage, but also our day-today interaction with each other. We do better together!

I can surely attest to this. After working with professional athletes over the past 34 years, when the players eventually turn in their playbooks and call it a career, the top thing they say they miss most… is not the paydays (I wouldn’t mind one of those), or even the competing – but rather the camaraderie, togetherness and sense of team. Community. Athletes are wired for it. And so are you.

Activity: People gather, go out, celebrate and party – to get involved with something that they want to do…to help get them through all the things that they DON’T want to do! We get excited about having something to look forward to. Maybe this is why the Bible speaks so often about things to come. Over ¼ of the Bible deals with future events. For every verse that speaks about Jesus’ first coming, there are seven that speak about his second coming. The Super Bowl is an American attraction viewed by millions. However, the Bible speaks of a global occurrence that will simultaneously capture the fascination of the entire world: The second coming of Jesus Christ. “Look, He is coming… Every eye will see Him.” Rev. 1:7

Escape:  From time to time all of us look for things to get our minds off of everyday life. The devil desires for us to look for those things in the wrong places. However, God says, “I have given all things richly to enjoy.” 1 Tim. 6:17 The greatest escape I have found from the world’s stresses, trials and attacks is unequivocally found in Him. Whether it’s a ball game, child rearing or any fascination of life, He provides a fulfillment which assures, no matter what the outcome of your personal situation, we can always have a confidence that we win – in Him.

As the great Green Bay Packers’ Reggie White was fond of saying, “I don’t want to prepare for the Super Bowl…and miss heaven.” He had his priorities right. I pray you do too. Hope you enjoyed the game.

A Birthday Blog -- Milestones, Taking Stock, Thanking Him

Christmas w/o Christ is ... Un"Reason"able

If I were sitting down to write about the top five places to pick up a nativity for your front yard this Christmas, I would be finished… right about …now.

So at New Venture, we’re doing an “Assignment America” blitz to place a disappearing CHRISTmas at the top of our social media headlines for all the world to see. This Christmas season, wherever you find reflections of Him, grab your digital devices and snap it. Capture it on your smartphones, cameras, tablets, iPads, and post it on Facebook, Tweet it or Instagram it. I'll get you started with one of my own, snapped of my neighbor's driveway down the hill from us: A four or maybe five foot Cross of Christmas Lights.

That’s the assignment, here’s the why: At New Venture, we’ve been talking for a few months about how to start digging out from the pile of rubbish trying to diminish or even delete Our Mighty God – ways to Awaken a Sleeping Giant, whether that’s God’s global Church or our individual witness as Christians. Nowhere, and at no time of year is this “deletion” more apparent than at what is SUPPOSED to be the season of His birth.

I heard one of our staff members was out with a family member looking for a nativity and came home empty handed. They said they found inflatable seals and penguins, Ferris Wheels, plenty of North Pole gear, but no baby Jesus, away in a manger. Plenty of poinsettias, and things my wife loves like glittery ribbons or twinkly lights, and boxes of fake snow (sorry Northeast, we order ours boxed in San Diego). But no O Holy Night was stirring, not even a mouse. You can have a Happy Holidays in a million ways, but if you want to celebrate a Merry Christmas, you’re going to have to hit Home Depot and make it a D.I.Y. XMAS.

What about Christmas cards? Those are more likely to show the Spirit of the season – IF you’re looking for Hanukkah, Kwanza or “safe” nondescript blessings of goodwill and peace on earth. Otherwise, it’s pretty slim out there. Wal Mart actually comes out the winner here with several Christian Christmas Cards with Scriptures and other nods to the God of the Bible, the Word Become Flesh. Target had few in the beginning. Barnes and Noble will bury you in stacks and stacks of Surfin’ Santas, winter wonderlands, a Happy Owl-idays (with a Christmas Owl?!), and off-color options. I don’t know how we got from the miracle of a Messiah, “born that man no more may die,” to celebrating His birth with cards you wouldn’t send to a minor. But we’re there.

And the count of any of the above drops to an appalling zero when we narrow the question to how much “CHRISTmas” have you seen in public areas like parks, malls, stores? Nativities are being kicked off military bases left and right and barely covered in the news. The Mt. Soledad Cross was ruled against in the 9^th District Court days before this writing (more about that in the Sleeping Giant blog), and ordered taken down in 90 days. Christmas parades are banned in select cities around the nation including Santa Barbara and Encinitas … right here at home.

Instagramming the nearest nativity is not going to turn our country back into One Nation Under God, or put Christmas back on the public map. But it’s a start, and at the very least, as Christians, we’ll be drawing near to Him this year, stirring up the conversation, and making sure that the nations hear that Christ was born in Bethlehem, and in our hearts. Go tell it on the mountain…over the hills, and Mt. Soledad, and military bases, and wireless hotspots – and everywhere.

Storm Preparedness -- Prayers For & Lessons From the Philippines' Typhoon Haiyan

In the aftermath of the storm that recently ravaged the Philippines (Nov. 8, 2013), stories began to emerge that People Magazine described as "stories of horror and hope.” I found it almost hard to read the details the first couple of days of what would turn out to be hundreds of millions of dollars in damage and more than 5000 lives lost. Together with the church, we lifted up in prayer those who were hardest hit, distributed details for how to help (also available at the bottom of this blog), and thanked God for victories like the babies that were born in the chaos – literally “in the midst of the storm.”

The headlines were gripping and brought to mind God's frequent use of storm imagery to illustrate both promises and warnings in His Word. (For you have been a strength to the poor, a strength to the needy in his distress, a refuge from the storm, a shadow from the heat, when the blast of the terrible ones is as a storm against the wall. Is 25:4).

One particular story of an area that sustained minimal damage and no deaths – and WHY this was the case – made me particularly interested. It was the one area you’d think would have been hit the HARDEST, but it was actually almost untouched – and even remained continuously functional during the storm, serving as an uninterrupted source of support to the surrounding community: The Tacloban Seaport. And why? According to the seaport manager, “Credit goes largely to a Philippine Ports Authority manual called 'Guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures …During Inclement Weather,'” which he refers to as “our Bible.”

Local authorities from other devastated areas were criticized for “failing to adequately prepare” and left devastated by the storm. The Port Manager however, began to respond the minute he heard there might be trouble, implementing what he said he “memorized” from his “Bible." He not only limited the damage, but also enabled quick and near-complete restoration after the storm – allowing the port to do more than SURVIVE, but to immediately SERVE.

Right after the storm, the port opened for military vessels and ships providing aid. Almost the ONLY aid, which was crucial because “more help arrives by sea and less by air in the first few days after the crisis."

How much is this a direct image of our responsibility as Christians in the midst of a broken world? The need to be prepared before a storm hits – “memorizing” the instructions in our literal Bible with even more passion than the Port Manager studied the procedures in his guide. How immediately must we react at the first sign that our enemy the Devil is throwing some “inclement weather” our way? How important is it for us to not just know what we “should” do, but to take intentional steps to get our “port” in order? All of these things, not only keep our own lives in safe, minimal-damage conditions – but allow us to serve and support as Christ's hands and feet when the world around us is falling apart and in need of aid. This is our blessing and our responsibility -- keeping us in safe harbor AND serving as the vessels that allow His aid to Reach others. We never know the storms that are brewing in lives all around us. Be ready "in any season" (2 Tim 4:2)  to be His strength to those He sends your way.

If you’d like prayer for any of the recent circumstances, have other needs, or want to know more about how you can help, contact the church office at New Venture (760 721 7777). We also recommend some of the below trusted world aid organizations.

God bless you as you search His “instruction manual,” withstand the storms, and love and serve your neighbors in any weather.

Jesus With You,
Pastor Shawn

Philipines Red Cross – http://www.redcross.org.ph/donatenow.php

Unicef – http://www.unicef.org/media/media_70893.html

Doctors Without Borders -- http://www.doctorswithoutborders.org/news/article.cfm?id=7143&cat=field-news

Well Done ... Pastor Chuck

Without question, God chose to use Pastor Chuck Smith as the cue ball of the Jesus Movement of the 60's & 70's.

I came to saving grace in Jesus Christ in 1971, at a tumultuous and demonic time in our nation's history, which included psychedelic drugs, Charles Manson, Woodstock and more.. The Bible says, "where sin abounds, grace much more abounds (Romans 5:20)." It sure does!

As national revival impacting millions swept across America, I got caught in that tsunami of God's Power and Love, along with my pastor Mike McIntosh, local pastors (and the fathers of Switchfoot stars) Mark Foreman and Chuck Butler, as well as the worship leaders who became the parents of Phil and Evan Wickham. My, how time flies.

God chose to use Pastor Chuck, as the flashpoint of this revival as hippies came through his church doors by the hundreds. Instead of turning them away, he welcomed all of these disenfranchised and hurting young people - as Jesus would. Today, Pastor Chuck begins eternal life, enjoying the One which he served so faithfully. Last Sunday Chuck preached his last sermon from a wheelchair. 86 years old, feeble and weak. Well, he sure doesn't need that wheelchair today, as Pastor Chuck begins enjoying his eternal reward.

He earned it, and a generation of us are eternally grateful!

One day, those who embrace the Christ that he loved, will join him. But until then...we're due for another NATIONAL REVIVAL. Through prayer, boldness, and a faithful walk with our Lord...let's be a part of it.

Pastor Shawn

FIX YOUR EYES….

It’s official – there is no “frontier” left that isn’t exposed to or covered by the Internet – Google, in specific. The Bible says that when Christ returns, every eye will see Him [Rev. 1:7]. It’s possible that by then, most of those “eyes” will be wearing Google glasses…or something similar.

Earlier this spring, 2013, Google Glasses and iGlass became available for public consumption. With a price point that kept them exclusively for celebrity clientele, it’s still a few years before we see them on the guy next to us at Walmart.

But Google, in their trademark formula for influencing our culture, already started with prototypes of their glasses in very visible (no pun intended) arenas like Celebs with “courtside seats,” Designers from New York’s Fashion Week, Artists at the Cannes Film Festival, and positioning sales to Influencers such as those on Fortune’s top 100.

There’s an exciting side to this. Did you ever imagine living in an age where you could pop on a pair of glasses and in a futuristic way, have them download extra info about everything you see – or record everything you encounter; give you directions; take pictures with the blink of an eye and share them with family and friends...everywhere?

The other side of this is, we’re multiplying our exposure to “the world” exponentially…but are we multiplying our exposure to God along with it? The Bible tells us to be careful what we expose ourselves to – what we hear and listen to; what we think about; and yes, what we see.

For all the benefits and advances the Internet has brought in changing our lifestyles – instant worldwide news, travel made easier, communication, information – there’s also a danger to what the Internet can put in front of you. And with smaller and more portable, affordable technology – tablets, smartphones, and now glasses – it’s possible to have the Internet – all its pros and cons – always before us.

Now, don’t get me wrong – I’d love to get my hands on a pair of those glasses. Waiting for a flight watching Spiderman IV; grabbing a burger while watching SportsCenter; being able to prepare a sermon from anywhere, anytime. But as our opportunities increase to keep the World in front of our eyes and at our fingertips, it’s more and more important to remember what God says about the importance of keeping His Word ever before us, more than anything else. [Deut. 6:9, 11:20; Eph. 5:19]

As we start to see the world through Google’s glasses, are we remembering to put on God’s perspective first? Are we powering up His Word through all these gadets? Is His “report” [Is. 53:1] louder than what any headline tells us to believe about ourselves and the world around us? If not…put on God’s glasses first, and make sure His vision for us, His plan for you, and His point of view are the first and clearest things you see. Fix your eyes first and foremost on Jesus…the author and perfector of our faith, and let Him be the glass through which -- or through WHOM -- you see it all. [Heb. 12:2]

[Additional reading: Is. 55:9; Jer. 3:33]

Hitting The Target

I really appreciate this quote. It's a great source of inspiration and encouragement. We all encounter times in which we experience setbacks. Ever felt like you've taken 2 steps forward, but then... 3 steps back?! At times all of us have.

God often allows us to advance from what initially feels like retreat - or defeat! Much like an arrow in a bow, when we feel like we're going backwards, often times God is about to launch us into future opportunities that only He can see!!

When the arrow is positioned to be shot by the archer, oftentimes the Master Marksman aims it in a direction to accomplish His ends.

God is the same way. He "Readies" us, "Aims" us, and then "Launches" us forward. Allow God to do that in your life. Ask Him right now, saying, "Lord, I yield myself to You. Knowing that You are aware where I can be most effective and accomplish the most good, no matter how I feel today. I trust where you're taking me."

God bless you friend. Good things are coming! Happy landing.

A Healthy Case of Spring Fever

Happy spring season to you. The Lord speaks about the 4 seasons He created in Gen. 8:22, and from an informal survey I took recently while speaking to our church family, springtime seems to have won out as NV’s favorite. I hope you’re enjoying and adjusting to Daylight Savings…with all the ministry that’s been happening around here at New Venture, we could use that hour we lost, back! I sure like it lighter, later though. You too?!

It’s been nothing short of thrilling to observe many of the ministries at NV springing to life (no pun intended). Our Spanish Service is a blessing, with 14 additional friends joining us on our Transportation pickup last week. Epic teens just returned from Winter Camp. Children are having a blast, with many coming to Christ in Kid’s World. A recent All-Church Baptism saw many take this important step in honoring and pleasing God. MPACT Men’s Ministry has been hitting the streets and spreading the word of our fast-approaching 24th Annual Easter Outreach services. And the launching of our new Traditions service has been far beyond anything we could have hoped for, with 51 enjoying the great hymns of old this past weekend in our Upper Room. Soon we’ll be adding Gospel Celebration Services, for those who enjoy a different expression of worship. God loves variety – and He sure loves the amazing people of NVCF!

I couldn’t be happier as we move into spring. Here’s a neat quote I came across, that speaks about the importance of not making excuses, but to keep looking to God for great things. I tell you this... the fired-up folks at New Venture, not only relate to this, but are living it, looking to God for great things and looking forward to experiencing more of Him together in the days ahead.



Yep, spring is in the air. That means new growth and opportunities. Maybe in your garden but definitely with our God.

Warmly,

Pastor Shawn

COMMITMENT, SOUL TRAIN and 21 (ALREADY?!!)

Only a few weeks into the New Year and already God is moving at New Venture especially with our new, life-changing “NO REGRETS: Living the Life You are Meant to Live” series. Based upon Kerry and Chris Shook’s book One Month To Live, our entire ministry is gaining a fresh, new perspective on honoring God by “Living life like we’re dying!!” Do that, and you’ll find yourself living better! I love John 10:10 in the Message Bible – “I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of.”

Ken Blanchard who’s a bestselling author, management expert and firm believer in our Lord, and has ministered here at NVCF, has said,

That’s a powerful dose of conviction right there.

As human beings, we all have varying interests. And those, in and of themselves are not necessarily bad things. Back in the day (a looongtime ago), when I was a regular dancer on the hit television show, Soul Train (I know, hard to believe, huh?!) I used to enjoy shaking it up on the dance floor. And boy - while I still love to dance - I love it so much more when God get’s my spirit dancing for Him, rather than the amazing things that He continually does, rather than secular television. Interests like the latest fads and trends are often interchangeable or replaceable. But more often than not, sometimes interests capture our attention away from committing our gifts, hearts, resources and even our time to heavenly matters – like living life for eternity, and not solely time...

21 years ago today, one of the biggest commitments I ever made to Jesus was to be the best father I could be to my son, Shawn Jr. No longer was parenting an interest, it was something I pledged everything I was, everything I would be and everything I had to. What changed…love is what changed. I was now responsible for the rearing of another human being in this world. I could see clearly what God must have felt knowing the sacrifice He’d pay because you and I were more than just His interests but rather his adopted sons and daughters. And His commitment to us is most evident in the sacrificial life and death of His Son, Jesus Christ. Now that’s commitment!

The direction of where we choose to take our faith lies in where our hearts are at. Today, ask yourself is church my interest or is my relationship with my Lord and Savior, my commitment? And if you can’t say the latter, I pray you come this weekend to discover more about what’s holding you back as we explore a life where we’re just breathing versus a life that’s breathtaking!

Join us, we’re saving a spot just for you… and so is God.