Seek The Lamb

Child of God or Adult?

Maybe  we  should rethink this maturity thing. . . .

A few days ago, it was my friend Steve’s birthday.  Laura and I interrupted a meeting at his office to give him a card and gift.  Laura, with characteristic boldness, opened the office door and said: “I don’t know what is going on in here but it can’t be as important as celebrating a birthday!”

Steve came out, laughing, and said something profound. “You know, God called us to be his children, not adults.”

We all laughed, but I walked away from there thinking about Steve’s comment.

 

Jesus called a small child over to him and put the child among them.  Then he said, “I assure you, unless you turn from your sins and become as little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven.                                                                                                                   Matt 18:2-3

But although the world was made through him, the world didn’t recognize him when he came. Even in his own land and among his own people, he was not accepted. But to all who believed him and accepted him, he gave the right to become children of God.                             John 1:10-12

 

You have read many articles in this newsletter about growing spiritually, reaching maturity, and fulfilling your purpose in the kingdom of God.  But there is something to what Steve said regarding our relationship to God as His Children.

When I am walking with my children, and we see a place where there is a lot of mud that we may have to walk through, their first reaction is “Oh boy, let’s have some fun and get muddy” while I think “Let’s not get our clothes dirty.”

Often when we are in Nicaragua at the local swimming hole, where there are trees and rocks to jump off, Luk, Mik, and even Arielle and Moselle are so excited to see what sort of gymnastics they can do before they hit the water.  My thought is first “We are a long way from an emergency room.”  They think of the fun, I think of the potential problems. When it comes time for a trip to somewhere, my children are eager to go see friends, and enjoy the experience.  I often think of the time it takes to get there, and the expense involved, as well as the things that I have to do when I get back.

They think as children, and I as an adult, which is natural.  

I see this also happening in my spiritual life.

When I first go involved with the Miskito Indians over 20 years ago, we had to move a 37,000 container of relief supplies to one of the most remote spots on the planet. Since I had not done this before, my attitude was: “God will take care of this.”  He did, and in a very spectacular manner. If you would like to read this incredible story, Click here: Signs Along The Way

 When Augusto Vicente came to ask us in 1985 to help him begin a school for refugee children, we supplied him with school materials, and the following year Sharon Washburn arrived from Washington to help us train teachers and begin a really effective primary education project.  Again, God moved in a very incredible manner.

I was a “child” in those days.  I didn’t know what it would really take to get a project of this nature off the ground and running.  I had child like faith that God would provide all that we needed to move cargo, and educate children in a very isolated corner of the hemisphere.  Today, I am more of an “adult”.  I know now what it actually takes to make these things happen, and the cost in time, sweat, finances, and emotions.  When I think about starting another school project, or any massive undertaking, I am more an “adult” in my thinking.  That can be good and bad.  I hesitate and think of all the obstacles to overcome, and the personal cost.  That is my “adult” side.  The spiritual child in me says again: “God will take care of all the details.”

Being a child in the Kingdom of God is important when it comes to three things:

Faith

Emotions

Obedience

When I tell my children that I will provide something for them, like a computer, or a bicycle, or even food for the next meal, they accept me at my word without another thought.  I have never heard any of my children ask me: “Poppy, where are you going to get the money for that?”  They know from their life experience with me that when I make a promise like that, they will see it happen.

“We are going to Nicaragua next week kids, start packing your bags.”

“How are we going to do that Poppy?  You haven’t even repaired the ceiling in my bedroom yet from the hurricane damage?  And what about the teacher salaries for this month?  Have you paid those yet?  Do we have any money for our tickets?”

No, this conversation has never happened.  They take me at my word, and let me figure out the details.  That is a good quality for us all to have with our Heavenly Father.  When He says something is going to happen, we should start focusing on getting ready for the event.  That is life in the spiritual world.

Have you ever watched children play?  They get loud, excited, and often very emotional.  They get caught up in the games that they are playing, like nothing else exists outside of the playroom.

When I watch my children playing, often I ignore their pleas to join in, because I “have too much stuff to do”. We often come to a worship service, and spend most of the time thinking about what we just left at home or at the office, and how we are going to figure out the problems that we have.  It takes me a while to actually “get into” worship with my emotions. 

That’s because of my life experience, and my preoccupation about things in my job, family, and personal life.  Look at the meaning for some of the words in Hebrew that are translated “Praise” in the book of Psalms.  One of them is “Hallal”, which literally means to act  “clamorously foolish” when we relate to God.  David did this when the Ark was brought into Jerusalem.  His dancing was “foolish” to his wife Michal, and she was rebuked by David and eventually the Lord for her attitude.  Read the story in 2 Samuel 6:14-23. 

Are we holding back out emotions when we come before the Lord?  Are we bypassing those moments of joy with our children and friends, because we have too many other things piled high on our plate? Do we have a false sense that silence and unemotional behavior in church is reverence to the Lord? Maybe there is another, more godly way. . .

All of my children have tested me at an early age with disobedience in small things.  I watch for this, to let them know that in our family, there is order and a way things are done.  After that, I have generally seen an attitude of “Poppy said that we have to . . . “ with compliance to what I have said.  There are many exceptions to this of course, but generally the Bagby children do the things that we tell then, out of respect, trust, or maybe fear of bad consequences if they don’t.  It’s probably a combination of all three.  What is important is that I have convinced them that I know more than they do, and that I love them, and have their best interests at the center of my heart.

Jesus told his disciples right before He went to the cross:

“If you love me, obey my commandments.”  John 14:15

In essence, Jesus was saying: “If you believe that I love you, and will do anything for you, and we have a relationship of true love and respect for one another, then do the things I am tell you to do, because they are for you own good.”

When my children were all about 3, I took them all to the street by our house and showed them the big trucks and cars whizzing by. “Don’t go into the street”, I told them. “These cars will flatten you like tortillas.”  So far they have obeyed me.  Now I am trying to transfer that “trust and obey” concept to other areas like morality issues with my now teenagers.

God wants us to “trust and obey”.  He after all, created all this, and understands it better than anyone.  What a privilege we have to have Him guide us through life!

The bottom line in all this is generally children have more fun in life, they have less stress, and are more loving to us adults that we are to each other.  This is a lifestyle that I need right now as I am faced with the challenge of paying my bills, accomplishing my work load, raising my children, caring for my wife, and doing this all in a culture that is more and more against me in my moral and spiritual values.

What about you?

Michael

 

Conchshell Chronicles May 2009

Rio Coco Bean Coffee

Announcing the

Arielle & Moselle Coffee Club

This month, we are inviting you to become member of a special club that will be a fun way to enjoy our Rio Coco Bean Coffee, and have it delivered to your door each month at very special prices.

Our daughters are helping with coffee roasting and production, and they want to help us make some money for the schools in Nicaragua. Enclosed is an information and order form. These are the very best prices for our gourmet coffee!

Please join the A&M Coffee Club!  You may change your order or cancel at any time.

Call us at 772-770-2985 to join!

    Remember, our profits educate children in Nicaragua. Rio Coco Bean coffee is:

100% Humanic Coffee:Bettering the Lives of humans around the world.

 

Lamb Bleatings                               by Laura

Purposed & Intentional for Eternity

“Moselle, you mean you didn’t take a shower today?!”

“Nope, mommy, not today, but I did yesterday…late yesterday…”

“So…..you don’t feel like you NEED to take a shower everyday or what?!”

“Yea…I mostly always do, but it’s kind of like watering the plants you know….”

“What do you mean, Moselle…like watering plants?!?!”

“Like sometimes you…. just don’t get around to it….you know, like you think you are going to water the plants, but you really don’t….”

“So, is that like you taking a shower or not? You sometimes don’t get around to it!!!?”, I asked.  I tried to sound astounded at her logic, but couldn’t help laughing in between.

“Yes, mommy, I am a very busy person!  I have a lot to do in the day and sometimes I don’t get around to doing everything.”, she replied.

“Like….?”, I asked, thinking…she’s eight…how hard can life be to miss a shower?

“Well, I have to do my school, read, all my chores and projects…”, she said.

I, of course, had to do my mommy speech regarding daily hygiene and cleanliness.  She wondered if going into the pool counted for anything…

This was a great conversation for me because it caused me to think about how many things in my life that I just “don’t get around to”.  What do I allow to pass me by that is directly related to the “basics” of my life for eternity?  How is my life being used and how many things do I “intend” to do but never quite get around to it?

The Bible says that life is but a vapor…here today and gone tomorrow.  Like the smoke coming off these coffee beans that Arielle is roasting!

In the span of eternity, we don’t have much time.  It is like a blink…I had a huge speech this morning for my children.  Michael was trying to do our morning devotion/Bible study and one of the kids copped a little attitude which did not denote appreciation and gratitude for the time my husband was giving to them.  It ticked me off and gave ample inspiration for some preaching…If you know me, you don’t want to get me started on how lucky they are to know, be related, or to be connected to anyone that I love & respect.  I can go on and on about the quality of people that surround me and how blessed we are to be around such inspiration to become more, to be better, to raise up the standard in our lives by observing & being around others.  Life is a privilege.  Relationships are a privilege and we are made to make the most of it all in the brief time we have here on this planet.  We need to make an intentional and purposed effort toward people and opportunities that directly affect our eternal destiny.

Life should never be something we just “get around to”.  We live as if it could be our last day.  I  continually encourage my children to make the best of their moments with us because frankly they truly don’t have much more time to be under our care and direction.  They will in fact have their own lives with their own set of responsibilies and callings one day soon.  I often encourage them to make the most of their time with us and their siblings while they are able.  Time with significant people pass all too quickly.  Intentional and purposed relationships have benefits beyond this world and leave impressions that cannot be expressed in mere words.  They are the most powerful force in a life aside from God Himself entering a heart.  The force of one intentional purposed life given over to the Lord is profoundly more moving than any other experience, task, accomplishment, or thing on this earth.

Life has a way of “going by” without any mercy and as my mom so aptly says, “Time waits for no one.”

On Friday (4-24-09), we lost a dear friend. Pastor/Doctor Kit Lauer died of leukemia, perhaps weak in body, but eternally strong in spirit.  He was a go for it, passionate disciple, a true learner and lover of God.  He functioned in great discipline physically, spiritually and emotionally.  An amazing athlete and a true intellect who loved to learn.  I often saw him running around Kihei. He rode bike with Michael, and once wrestled my husband to the floor in the Hope Chapel office. Michael didn't know that Kit was a champion wrestler in college!    He was a champ in all aspects of life.  In every area, he exuded life, love, gentleness, kindness and a sincere pure hearted faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.  He loved God and He loved people deeply.  Anyone who had the privilege of being in his air space felt his loving presence and loved it. He was a crack up and brought great joy to all of us.  Just two years ago my two older kids had the privilege of attending Kit’s apologetics class.  At 16 and 14, Mik and Luk were not very inclined to the academics of apologetics, but they did love being with Uncle Kit.  We all enjoyed our moments with  him and we are sorry we could not be there with our Hope Ohana in the process of celebrating his life…

It has been a week of grieving and reflecting for us.  A week of prayer for Shelly (Kit’s wife), Maisha (daughter), Mikey (son), Buddy (brother), family, and our larger Ohana in Kihei.  There have been many hardships, losses & victories faced in these past two years by our friends.  Physically we have been apart, but when there are eternal heart connections made, the experiences are as real as if we were right there in the midst of it all.

Moselle noticed my struggle this week and as we were standing over the stove cooking she said,

“Mommy, we are going to see Uncle Kit again, right?”

“Yes….”

“He is much happier where he is now over in heaven, isn’t he, Mommy?” she asked looking for a reaction.

“He is not suffering anymore in his body, Moselle.  I am sure he is glad to be where he is right now.  We just need to pray for those left here.”

We keep thinking he might be doing something with Uncle Dave…you know they are not just sitting on a cloud twittling their thumbs…..

While we have breath, let us press on with the intention of making a difference, purposed in our walk of faith, being a blessing wherever we may be with whomever we are with.  There is no time to waste or to simply live “getting around to it”….    

                                                                    

Live like you mean it….

With Intention and Purposefulness for eternity.                                                                       

My older children are trying to carve out time for their physical fitness.  We have always made it a point to involve them in some biblical & cardiovascular activity for the sake of their hearts and general discipline in life for life.  We explain that if they were not intentional about being in good health and shape spiritually and physically, they will naturally become dull, fat and lose their freedom & their ability to move with ease.  We must purpose ourselves in all areas if we desire to reap the fruit of our hands.  May we run our race complete with continual motion to raise the standard of love as we allow life to abound...on the inside and out...like Kit.   Laura

 

It’s Not My Project!          By Michael Bagby

Dawn. . . in the northern Indian Ocean onboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise. Lt. Mike “Bags” Bagby steps out of the elevator and onto the flight deck and strides toward an A-6 Intruder, the Navy’s $28 million all weather attack aircraft.  He is wearing 30 lbs of torso harness, anti-“G” suit, floatation vest, helmet, and assorted survival gear.  As he arrives at his assigned Intruder, he stops and smiles.  This Intruder happens to have his name painted on the pilot’s side right below the canopy rail. Yes, it was a pride thing.

After checking numerous hydraulic lines, electrical connections, structural elements, and even kicking the tires, he climbs up the boarding ladder, straps into the  ejection seat, and begins the pre-launch checklist, knowing that in a few minutes, his 46,000 lb. aircraft would be hurtled down a steam catapult, accelerating from 0 to 185 mph in about 2.6 seconds. . .

(notice the look of arrogance and foolishness on the face of a young Lt. Bagby in a photo from the 70's)

 I went through this launch scene many times during my Naval career. In the early days, it was easy for me to think about a flight off the carrier deck as “me and my jet”.  I was the one zooming off, flying all the maneuvers, and landing back aboard the boat.  It was all up to me, and all about me.  If you have seen the movie “Top Gun”, you can understand this shallow mentality.  However on this particular day, I was to learn a very valuable lesson that still applies to my life, and our work in Seek The Lamb.

As I finished strapping into the seat, I realized that there was no electrical power on the aircraft.  I looked down on the deck, and motioned to one of the twelve men who were standing around “my” Intruder.  These 12 guys, who were called “Troubleshooters”, were mechanics, electricians, and technicians from our squadron, assigned to take care of any maintenance issues before the launch. They all wore different color shirts, depending on their function. At this point in my young Naval career, I really didn’t pay much attention to them, except when I needed them.

A blue shirted sailor plugged the Intruder into an “external power” source from the ship, and immediately lights came on in the cockpit. I reached down and turned on the radio to listen to the weather information.  Silence!  I motioned to the green shirted radio tech and he climbed up the ladder, took a look, then opened a panel in the side of the aircraft, and began installing a new radio.

At that point, I checked my fuel gauges, and realized that this Intruder did not have a full tank of JP-4.  I motioned to the purple shirted fuel guy.  Immediately he pulled over a fuel line, connected it to the aircraft, and began fueling.  Then my bombardier/navigator informed me that our navigation system was having problems.  We motioned for another of the “Twelve”, who climbed up his ladder and began running some checks. It was then that we discovered that our radar was inoperative, and soon, one more of the green shirted “Twelve” began making repairs up front.

Finally these problems were corrected, and we were ready to start the engines.  I gave the signal to start the air “huffer”, which turned the engines, and nothing happened.  A value in the port engine was stuck closed.  Two mechanics immediately had the side of the engine compartment open, and fixed the problem.  However as soon as the engine fired up and the hydraulic pumps began working, red fluid began squirting out from under the port wing. Two hydraulic techs motioned me to kill the engine, and they went to work replacing a fitting.  In a few minutes, they were finished, and we started both engines without further incidents.

Following the signals of a yellow shirted taxi director, we moved the Intruder to the catapult. As the catapult officer gave me the signal to go to full power, I noticed all Twelve of the troubleshooters standing off to the side, visually making a final check of my jet.  It was then that I realized each one of those twelve had been vigorously involved with me and “my jet” to get it ready for launch. That’s when it dawned on me:  They considered this Intruder “their” jet.

I went to full power, checked the aircraft systems one more time, and gave a snappy salute to the catapult officer, indicating that we were ready to launch.  In less than a few seconds, the steam catapult fired, and we were airborne and climbing out.

However something was different as we ascended through the humid Indian Ocean sky on this day.  I wasn’t alone anymore.  Besides my bombardier/navigator, there were twelve other men who were flying with us that morning.  They had been the ones actually responsible for getting the Intruder off the deck of the Enterprise.  I was just along for the ride.  I suddenly was struck with the importance of teamwork in getting the mission of that day accomplished.  It wasn’t about “me and my jet” any more.  It was about appreciating the collective efforts that made that Intruder fly.

(This is a photo of the troubleshooters all pushing an A-6 back to get it into position for launch. Notice the different colored jerseys.)

Twenty Five years ago, I left on a two-week trip to take relief supplies to Miskito Indian refugees from the Sandinista war in Nicaragua.  Over the next years, I witnessed medical teams coming to help the sick and dying; teachers coming to train other teachers and establish schools, pastors coming to make disciples and train church leaders, and builders arriving to construct schools, houses, and airplane hangers. 

Others who couldn’t come instead sent money to buy school supplies, food, medicines, and pay teachers.  I can safely say that in those early years, it was the efforts of many that caused thousands of Miskito Indian refugees to be helped, encouraged, healed, educated, and lead to Christ. There was a common attitude that I picked up from most of them:  This was their project.  It hasn’t changed.

   This Education/Discipleship project that is happening each day in Nicaragua is not “Mike and Laura’s Project”.  We are simply playing our parts in teaching, administrating, fund raising, and just being there to encourage our Miskito brothers and sisters in their work.  Much of the real work is done by many of you.  It is truly a team effort. Nothing happens without your prayers; very little happens without your financial gifts.  Prayers and Financial gifts are the fuel that gets “this aircraft off the deck.”  Paul told his friends in Corinth:

 

  Now all of you together are Christ’s body, and each one of you is a separate and necessary part of it.                                                                                                                                   1 Cor 12:27

 

The key words here are “Together” and “Necessary”.

Here’s why:

·  If Truman and our staff of 80 teachers and administrators decide not to do their jobs, and

· If we decide not to make any more Rio Coco coffee or jewelry, not to send out newsletters, or send any more money to Nicaragua, and not go there ourselves, and

· If you decide not to pray for our teachers and students, and decide to not send your financial gifts,

· Then the project will slowly diminish, teachers will become impoverished, students will not receive their academic and Bible lessons, schools will soon close, and the demonic forces which have ruled the Rio Coco for so long will fill the spiritual void...

But on the other hand:

·  If Truman, Danilo, Augusto, Onofre, and our many school teachers show up for work every day, prepared for their classes, and;

· If our office staff does our administration job with diligence and vision, and;

· If You take the time to pray for the specific prayer needs included in each newsletter and support your sponsored children, missionaries, discipleship programs and building projects with your financial gifts;

· Then Together We Are Making Disciples, and experiencing an incredible adventure with God that we will later be rewarded for as we stand before Him.

      It is a Team Effort.  Just like the day when all of us had to pull our boat across the beach at "Cape Thanks to God" (where the Rio Coco empties in to the Caribbean. We all had to lend a hand.

   We must all play our part for God’s plan to happen, lives to be touched, and individual destinies changed.  It’s amazing to see how God has planned for us all to work together with Him to accomplish something of eternal value. We appreciate all of you who consider this “Our Project” and are personally involved through your prayers, gifts, and words of encouragement.   We know that it does not happen without you. Maik

 

The Bagby Bunch Corner

Life has been full. We have experienced a lot in these last weeks as we spend our time here in Vero Beach working on Seek The Lamb office projects (not so interesting but necessary), roasting coffee (gritty work but with rewards!) and teaching Bible studies at our church and in small groups (fun!).  Michael has a Tuesday morning cell group and works with good friend Terry Borcheller. He also had a 6 AM Thursday group at the Roasting Room working with Scott Coffey, which is focusing on “learning the Bible so you can teach it”. We also have our couples study weekly, when all 10 of us are in town. Laura usually leads the discussion, and we have seen so much freedom bursting out in our relationships!  In addition, Michael teaches at the School of Leaders on Wednesday nights to a group of over 40 leaders. His best class is each morning with his four disciples, who are learning individual books of the Bible, and memorizing Scripture.

Mikaela and Lukas served this past week as the worship leaders at our Youth Encounter, and we were so proud of how the Lord used them both. They each are involved in pastoring a weekly youth cell group. Yes, we are enjoying this sweet fruit on the Bagby tree!

Meanwhile, our team in Nicaragua busy managing the schools and working on two building projects.  The river is very low now, and moving heavy cargo is difficult. We have had to hire two more teachers, bring our total to over 65. We have felt the effects of our economy  each month as we send Truman a little less money for the school, teachers, and construction, even though we are doing more– with less!  We have also felt it in our personal family economy. Your prayers are needed, and we thank you for your faithfulness in your giving. We really appreciate you who are praying for us and supporting the ministry and our family!

There is still room for the Family Camp July 5-July 15th in Nicaragua.  Airfares are cheap to Nicaragua! Please consider bringing your family for a life changing experience!

                                                                        Laura & Michael 

Opportunities For Ministry

     At this point in the reading of the newsletter experience, we come to a place of decision.  Was I inspired to live a more purposeful life?  Is the education project in Nicaragua a worthy endeavor? What part do I play?

     Good questions!  We encourage you now to take it a step further in follow through on what  God may be speaking to you.  Here are a few suggestions:

1) Take out the enclosed prayer list (Arrows) and pray for each of the items at least once a week for the rest of the month;

2) Sponsor a Miskito student.  Use the enclosed form to begin your sponsorship.

3) Sponsor a Project Ezra Teacher. These are the guys on the front lines;

4) Support a Seek The Lamb missionary. You will see them listed on the giving envelope. They need your support! Really!

5) Contribute to the Waspam Building project;

6) Purchase Rio Coco Bean Coffee. Profits pay teacher salaries and buy school supplies.

You may give by using your credit card online at www.seekthelamb.org

Click on “You Can Help” .           We all thank you!

 

 

Choices

We just went through a season in our nation of making some important choices.  It is a ritual that happens once every four years, and this election was important in many ways.  The issues were very clear: the war on terrorism, sanctity of life, health care, the economy, and philosophy in which we would conduct our nation’s domestic and foreign affairs.  The candidates expressed often opposing views on each. A clear choice was evident. The American people spoke, and the result will be decisions and policies that will affect our generation and ones to follow.

Choices are important, especially in times like these.

Choose: verb; to pick out by preference from what is available;

Choice: noun; implies the right or power to choose, usually by the free exercise of one’s judgment.

The fact that we do have the ability to choose is an indication of what our Creator thinks of us.

Choices surround us, from the moment we step out of bed.  “Do I brush my teeth, do I go for my morning exercise, do I drink one cup of coffee or two?” This process continues through the day. “Will I eat a lunch that is good for me, or good for my taste buds?  Will I treat my employees with respect?  Will I do a good job for my boss?  Will I take some extra moments with my children?  Will I give some moments to the others around me?” As we crawl into bed, the sum of our day really is measured by the choices that we made.

The measure of our lives is the cumulative effect of our daily and moment-by-moment choices.

   As parents, we love to see our children make the “right” choices. What defines a “right choice”?  Think about it for a moment.  What is the element of a “choice” that makes us swell up a bit of pride and say:  “That’s my boy (girl)” ?

To me, it is when one of my daughters or son decided to do something that is good for those around him, as well as himself.  When they decide to live a life that is “Others Centered”, their decisions make me smile.

Jesus once told His disciples:

“Do for others what you would like them to do for you. This is a summary of all that is taught in the law and the prophets.                  Matthew 7:12

Doing what is best for others is a summary of what the Mosiac Law  taught.  Interesting!  This deserves some more study! Look at the promise that God made to the Israelites in the desert right before they entered the “Promised Land”:

“If you fully obey the Lord your God by keeping all the commands I am giving you today, the Lord your God will exalt you above all the nations of the world. ² You will experience all these blessings if you obey the Lord your God:

You will be blessed in your towns and in the country. You will be blessed with many children and productive fields.  You will be blessed with fertile herds and flocks. You will be blessed with baskets overflowing with fruit, and with kneading bowls filled with bread. You will be blessed wherever you go, both in coming and in going.

The Lord will conquer your enemies when they attack you. They will attack you from one direction, but they will scatter from you in seven!                              Deut 28:1-6

 

Obviously this was a promise made to a group of desert nomads over 3500 years ago, yet there are some principles here that still apply.  God says that when we model His style of being “Others Centered” in our moment –by-moment choices, then we will experience His presence and His blessing in our lives. This philosophy of living can be applied to our familial relationships, our businesses, our politics, and the ministries that we are involved in. God says that He blesses us when we make choices that are good for others.

Take a look around your neighborhood.  Dedicate your day to making choices that are good for your family, and good for your neighbors, even if these decisions cost you some personal comfort and inconvenience. 

This is the measure of God’s People:  That they are willing to be used by Him to help others.  

        MB

 

It's A Team Effort

Dawn. . . in the northern Indian Ocean onboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise. Lt. Mike “Bags” Bagby steps out of the elevator and onto the flight deck and strides toward an A-6 Intruder, the Navy’s $28 million all weather attack aircraft.  He is wearing 30 lbs of torso harness, anti-“G” suit, floatation vest, helmet, and assorted survival gear.  As he arrives at his assigned Intruder, he stops and smiles.  This Intruder happens to have his name painted on the pilot’s side right below the canopy rail. Yes, it was a pride thing. . .

After checking numerous hydraulic lines, electrical connections, structural elements, and even kicking the tires, he climbs up the boarding ladder, straps into the  ejection seat, and begins the pre-launch checklist, knowing that in a few minutes, his 46,000 lb. aircraft would be hurtled down a steam catapult, accelerating from 0 to 185 mph in about 2.6 seconds. . .

 

I went through this launch scene many times during my Naval career. In the early days, it was easy for me to think about a flight off the carrier deck as “me and my jet”.  I was the one zooming off, flying all the maneuvers, and landing back aboard the boat.  It was all up to me, and all about me.  If you have seen the movie “Top Gun”, you can understand this shallow mentality.  However on this particular day, I was to learn a very valuable lesson that still applies to my life, and our work in Seek The Lamb.

As I finished strapping into the seat, I realized that there was no electrical power on the aircraft.  I looked down on the deck, and motioned to one of the twelve men who were standing around “my” Intruder.  These 12 guys, who were called “Troubleshooters”, were mechanics, electricians, and technicians from our squadron, assigned to take care of any maintenance issues before the launch. They all wore different color shirts, depending on their function. At this point in my young Naval career, I really didn’t pay much attention to them, except when I needed them.

A blue shirted sailor plugged the Intruder into an “external power” source from the ship, and immediately lights came on in the cockpit. I reached down and turned on the radio to listen to the weather information. Silence!  I motioned to the green shirted radio tech and he climbed up the ladder, took a look, then opened a panel in the side of the aircraft, and began installing a new radio.

At that point, I checked my fuel gauges, and realized that this Intruder did not have a full tank of JP-4.  I motioned to the purple shirted fuel guy.  Immediately he pulled over a fuel line, connected it to the aircraft, and began fueling.  Then my bombardier/navigator informed me that our navigation system was having problems.  We motioned for another of the “Twelve”, who climbed up his ladder and began running some checks. It was then that we discovered that our radar was inoperative, and soon, one more of the green shirted “Twelve” began making repairs up front.

Finally these problems were corrected, and we were ready to start the engines.  I gave the signal to start the air “huffer”, which turned the engines, and nothing happened.  A value in the port engine was stuck closed.  Two mechanics immediately had the side of the engine compartment open, and fixed the problem.  However as soon as the engine fired up and the hydraulic pumps began working, red fluid began squirting out from under the port wing. Two hydraulic techs motioned me to kill the engine, and they went to work replacing a fitting.  In a few minutes, they were finished, and we started both engines without further incidents.

Following the signals of a yellow shirted taxi director, we moved the Intruder to the catapult. As the catapult officer gave me the signal to go to full power, I noticed all Twelve of the troubleshooters standing off to the side, visually making a final check of my jet.  It was then that I realized each one of those twelve had been vigorously involved with me and “my jet” to get it ready for launch. That’s when it dawned on me:  They considered this Intruder “their” jet.

I went to full power, checked the aircraft systems one more time, and gave a snappy salute to the catapult officer, indicating that we were ready to launch.  In less than a few seconds, the steam catapult fired, and we were airborne and climbing out.

However something was different as we ascended through the humid Indian Ocean sky on this day.  I wasn’t alone anymore.  Besides my bombardier/navigator, there were twelve other men who were flying with us that morning.  They had been the ones actually responsible for getting the Intruder off the deck of the Enterprise.  I was just along for the ride.  I suddenly was struck with the importance of teamwork in getting the mission of that day accomplished.  It wasn’t about “me and my jet” any more.  It was about appreciating the collective efforts that made that Intruder fly.

 

   Twenty Five Years ago, I left on a two-week trip to take relief supplies to Miskito Indian refugees from the Sandinista war in Nicaragua.  Over the next years, I witnessed medical teams coming to help the sick and dying; teachers coming to train other teachers and establish schools, pastors coming to make disciples and train church leaders, and builders arriving to construct schools, houses, airplane hangers, and clinics.  Others who couldn’t come instead sent money to buy school supplies, food, medicines, and pay teachers.  I can safely say that in those early years, it was the efforts of many that caused thousands of Miskito Indian refugees to be helped, encouraged, healed, educated, and lead to Christ. There was a common attitude that I picked up from most of them:  This was their project. It hasn’t changed. 

   The Discipleship project that is happening each day in Nicaragua is not “Mike and Laura’s Project”.  We are simply playing our parts in teaching, administrating, fund raising, and just being there to encourage our Miskito brothers and sisters in their work.  Much of the real work is done by many of you.  It is truly a team effort. Nothing happens without your prayers; very little happens without your financial gifts.  Prayers and Financial gifts are the fuel that gets “this aircraft off the deck.” 

    Paul told his friends in Corinth:

 

   Now all of you together are Christ’s body, and each one of you is a separate and necessary part of it.                                                                         1 Cor 12:27

The key words here are “Together” and “Necessary”.   Here’s why:

 

-If Truman and our staff of 84 teachers and administrators decide not to do their jobs, and

-If we decide not to make any more Rio Coco Bead jewelry, not to send out newsletters, not to send any more money to Nicaragua, and not go there ourselves on a regular basis, and

-If you decide not to pray for our teachers and students, and decide to not send your financial gifts,

-Then the project will slowly diminish, teachers will become impoverished, students will not receive their academic and Bible lessons, schools will soon close, and the demonic forces which have ruled the Rio Coco for so long will fill the spiritual void...

But on the other hand:

 

-If Truman, Danilo, Augusto, Onofre, and our many school teachers show up for work every day, prepared for their classes, and;

-If our office staff does our administration job with diligence and vision, and;

-If You take the time to pray for the specific prayer needs included in each newsletter and support your sponsored children, missionaries, discipleship programs and building projects with your financial gifts;

-Then Together We Are Making Disciples, and experiencing an incredible adventure with God that we will later be reminded of as we stand before Him on that Final Day.

It is a Team Effort.  We must all play our part for God’s plan to happen, lives to be touched, and individual destinies changed.  It’s amazing to see how God has planned for us all to work together with Him to accomplish something of eternal value.

We appreciate all of you who consider this“Our Project” and are personally involved through your prayers, gifts, and words of encouragement.  We know that it does not happen without you. MB l

 

It's Not My Project!

Dawn. . . in the northern Indian Ocean onboard the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise. Lt. Mike “Bags” Bagby steps out of the elevator and onto the flight deck and strides toward an A-6 Intruder, the Navy’s $28 million all weather attack aircraft.  He is wearing 30 lbs of torso harness, anti-“G” suit, floatation vest, helmet, and assorted survival gear.  As he arrives at his assigned Intruder, he stops and smiles.  This Intruder happens to have his name painted on the pilot’s side right below the canopy rail. Yes, it was a pride thing. . .

After checking numerous hydraulic lines, electrical connections, structural elements, and even kicking the tires, he climbs up the boarding ladder, straps into the  ejection seat, and begins the pre-launch checklist, knowing that in a few minutes, his 46,000 lb. aircraft would be hurtled down a steam catapult, accelerating from 0 to 185 mph in about 2.6 seconds. . .

 

I went through this launch scene many times during my Naval career. In the early days, it was easy for me to think about a flight off the carrier deck as “me and my jet”.  I was the one zooming off, flying all the maneuvers, and landing back aboard the boat.  It was all up to me, and all about me.  If you have seen the movie “Top Gun”, you can understand this shallow mentality.  However on this particular day, I was to learn a very valuable lesson that still applies to my life, and our work in Seek The Lamb.

As I finished strapping into the seat, I realized that there was no electrical power on the aircraft.  I looked down on the deck, and motioned to one of the twelve men who were standing around “my” Intruder.  These 12 guys, who were called “Troubleshooters”, were mechanics, electricians, and technicians from our squadron, assigned to take care of any maintenance issues before the launch. They all wore different color shirts, depending on their function. At this point in my young Naval career, I really didn’t pay much attention to them, except when I needed them.

A blue shirted sailor plugged the Intruder into an “external power” source from the ship, and immediately lights came on in the cockpit. I reached down and turned on the radio to listen to the weather information. Silence!  I motioned to the green shirted radio tech and he climbed up the ladder, took a look, then opened a panel in the side of the aircraft, and began installing a new radio.

At that point, I checked my fuel gauges, and realized that this Intruder did not have a full tank of JP-4.  I motioned to the purple shirted fuel guy.  Immediately he pulled over a fuel line, connected it to the aircraft, and began fueling.  Then my bombardier/navigator informed me that our navigation system was having problems.  We motioned for another of the “Twelve”, who climbed up his ladder and began running some checks. It was then that we discovered that our radar was inoperative, and soon, one more of the green shirted “Twelve” began making repairs up front.

Finally these problems were corrected, and we were ready to start the engines.  I gave the signal to start the air “huffer”, which turned the engines, and nothing happened.  A value in the port engine was stuck closed.  Two mechanics immediately had the side of the engine compartment open, and fixed the problem.  However as soon as the engine fired up and the hydraulic pumps began working, red fluid began squirting out from under the port wing. Two hydraulic techs motioned me to kill the engine, and they went to work replacing a fitting.  In a few minutes, they were finished, and we started both engines without further incidents.

Following the signals of a yellow shirted taxi director, we moved the Intruder to the catapult. As the catapult officer gave me the signal to go to full power, I noticed all Twelve of the troubleshooters standing off to the side, visually making a final check of my jet.  It was then that I realized each one of those twelve had been vigorously involved with me and “my jet” to get it ready for launch. That’s when it dawned on me:  They considered this Intruder “their” jet.

I went to full power, checked the aircraft systems one more time, and gave a snappy salute to the catapult officer, indicating that we were ready to launch.  In less than a few seconds, the steam catapult fired, and we were airborne and climbing out.

However something was different as we ascended through the humid Indian Ocean sky on this day.  I wasn’t alone anymore.  Besides my bombardier/navigator, there were twelve other men who were flying with us that morning.  They had been the ones actually responsible for getting the Intruder off the deck of the Enterprise.  I was just along for the ride.  I suddenly was struck with the importance of teamwork in getting the mission of that day accomplished.  It wasn’t about “me and my jet” any more.  It was about appreciating the collective efforts that made that Intruder fly.

 

   Twenty Five Years ago, I left on a two-week trip to take relief supplies to Miskito Indian refugees from the Sandinista war in Nicaragua.  Over the next years, I witnessed medical teams coming to help the sick and dying; teachers coming to train other teachers and establish schools, pastors coming to make disciples and train church leaders, and builders arriving to construct schools, houses, airplane hangers, and clinics.  Others who couldn’t come instead sent money to buy school supplies, food, medicines, and pay teachers.  I can safely say that in those early years, it was the efforts of many that caused thousands of Miskito Indian refugees to be helped, encouraged, healed, educated, and lead to Christ. There was a common attitude that I picked up from most of them:  This was their project. It hasn’t changed. 

   The Discipleship project that is happening each day in Nicaragua is not “Mike and Laura’s Project”.  We are simply playing our parts in teaching, administrating, fund raising, and just being there to encourage our Miskito brothers and sisters in their work.  Much of the real work is done by many of you.  It is truly a team effort. Nothing happens without your prayers; very little happens without your financial gifts.  Prayers and Financial gifts are the fuel that gets “this aircraft off the deck.” 

    Paul told his friends in Corinth:

 

   Now all of you together are Christ’s body, and each one of you is a separate and necessary part of it.                                                                         1 Cor 12:27

The key words here are “Together” and “Necessary”.   Here’s why:

 

-If Truman and our staff of 84 teachers and administrators decide not to do their jobs, and

-If we decide not to make any more Rio Coco Bead jewelry, not to send out newsletters, not to send any more money to Nicaragua, and not go there ourselves on a regular basis, and

-If you decide not to pray for our teachers and students, and decide to not send your financial gifts,

-Then the project will slowly diminish, teachers will become impoverished, students will not receive their academic and Bible lessons, schools will soon close, and the demonic forces which have ruled the Rio Coco for so long will fill the spiritual void...

But on the other hand:

 

-If Truman, Danilo, Augusto, Onofre, and our many school teachers show up for work every day, prepared for their classes, and;

-If our office staff does our administration job with diligence and vision, and;

-If You take the time to pray for the specific prayer needs included in each newsletter and support your sponsored children, missionaries, discipleship programs and building projects with your financial gifts;

-Then Together We Are Making Disciples, and experiencing an incredible adventure with God that we will later be reminded of as we stand before Him on that Final Day.

It is a Team Effort.  We must all play our part for God’s plan to happen, lives to be touched, and individual destinies changed.  It’s amazing to see how God has planned for us all to work together with Him to accomplish something of eternal value.

We appreciate all of you who consider this“Our Project” and are personally involved through your prayers, gifts, and words of encouragement.  We know that it does not happen without you. MB l

 

A Key To Working A Miracles

Miracles?  Yes, we all want to see them. After all, if Christianity is real, and we can believe the accounts of the lives of Jesus and His Disciples in the Bible, then we should all be experiencing His miraculous power in our lives.

It is interesting to see how Jesus performed miracles as we read the Scriptures, and the circumstances surrounding these miracles.  Let’s take a look at a few.  Mark records that:

 

Now a leper came to Him, imploring Him, kneeling down to Him and saying to Him, “You are willing, You can make me clean.”

^ Then Jesus, moved with compassion, stretched out His hand and touched him, and said to him, “I am willing; be cleansed.” ^ As soon as He had spoken, the leprosy left him, and he was cleansed. ^                        Mark 1:40-42

 

There were many lepers during the time of Jesus.  What prompted Jesus to heal this one?

“Then Jesus moved with compassion. . .”

 

Matthew records that once:

 

^Jesus went out He saw a great multitude; and He moved with compassion for them, and healed their sick.  Matthew 14:14

 

Again we see this word compassion, which in the Greek is the word splanchnizomai, which literally means:  to be moved as to one’s bowels, hence to be moved with compassion, have compassion (for the bowels were thought to be the seat of love and pity), and to feel compassion for, have pity on, have one’s heart go out to someone.

We find this word again in Luke 7:13:

 

Now it happened, the day after, that He went into a city called Nain; and many of His disciples went with Him, and a large crowd. ^ And when He came near the gate of the city, behold, a dead man was being carried out, the only son of his mother; and she was a widow. And a large crowd from the city was with her. ^ When the Lord saw her, He had compassion on her and said to her, “Do not weep.” ^ Then He came and touched the open coffin, and those who carried him stood still. And He said, “man, I say to you, .” ^ So he who was dead sat up and began to speak. And He took him to his mother.          Luke 7:11-15

 

There are more times when Jesus was moved “with compassion” and reached out to rectify the situation. Compassion seems always to lead to miracles.

We see another use of this word in a situation where Jesus’ authority was being challenged.  It is a familiar story that bears reading:

 

And behold, a certain lawyer stood up and tested Him, saying, “Teacher, what shall I do to inherit eternal life?”

He said to him, “What is written in the law? What is your reading of it?”

So he answered and said, “‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind,’ and ‘your neighbor as yourself.’”

And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; do this and you will live.”

But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?”

 

Then Jesus answered and said: “A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, who stripped him of his clothing, wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.

 Now by chance a certain priest came down that road. And when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. Likewise a Levite, when he arrived at the place, came and looked, and passed by on the other side. 

But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was. And when he saw him, he had compassion.  So he went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine; and he set him on his own animal, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. On the next day, when he departed, he took out two denarii, gave them to the innkeeper, and said to him, ‘Take care of him; and whatever more you spend, when I come again, I will repay you.’

 

So which of these three do you think was neighbor to him who fell among the thieves?”

And he said, “He who showed mercy on him.”

Then Jesus said to him, “Go and do likewise.”

Luke 10:25-37 (NKJV)

 

What is the key for us to be able to “love our neighbor as ourselves” according to Jesus?

The Levite and priest passed this wounded man by.  They were in a hurry to get up to the Temple in Jerusalem so that they could perform their priestly functions and “worship God”. The reality is that if they touch this man’s blood, they would have to endure a multi-day ceremonial cleansing.  Their duties at the Temple were just too important for that.

However the Samaritan, considered to be at the bottom of Hebrew society, as they were not “pure blooded” Jews, felt compassion, and this moved him to stop, and care for the wounded man.

As we look around us, what prompts us to step outside our comfort zone and reach out to those in need?  Sometimes it is simply knowing that it is the right thing to do.  After all, love is more an act of will rather than an emotion. But more often than not, it is when our heart is moved with compassion for that person and their problems that we stop, and get involved.

You have probably heard it said that

“Availability is your greatest asset for effective ministry.”

That is true, but availability is often dependant on this key element, compassion.

A dear friend of mine recently said before his congregation:

“Compassion is your greatest asset when it comes to ministry.”

                                                                                        Pastor Buddy Tipton

He’s right.  Compassion is the driving force for miraculous changes in our world.  When we are moved by compassion, then God begins to move through us in force, and that person’s world is changed. 

When we do it enough, and compassion becomes one of our noticeable qualities, then many in our world will take notice, and be drawn to the source of love for one another.

Lord, fill us with your compassion for the lost, the needy, the sick, and downtrodden.  Use us to make a difference in their lives.  Let our compassion flow, as your’s flows through us, to change our world, and bring many who are lost into your family.   Amen