Pure, Unadulterated Joy

@BeRich11 Campaign raises 1.7 million for Atlanta-based charities in 7 days; 13,000 hours of service booked and more. @Time @Newsweek @AtlantaMagazine @Cl_Atlanta @AtlBizChron @AJC #Thanksgiving

By Joy A. Kennelly

Every time you have a perception of a certain thing, it will grow and evolve as time goes on and my opinion on Andy Stanley's church and members has drastically taken a turn for the better over the course of the past few weeks.

Not that I thought everyone was bad, but I was allowing certain attendees to influence my opinion poorly. Not that you care, but for those who want to hold a negative view of the church and Christianity because it makes you feel better, this is one story where you won't be able to once you read what I am about to share with you.

I know it changed my mind and opened my heart like nothing else could.

Being new to the South everything is new to me and I love seeing how people do church and community out here. Years ago I ran across Pastor Louie Giglio's 7:22 singles service online and was so encouraged to see young people worshipping and learning about God here in Atlanta, Georgia as I sat at my computer watching them all the way across the country in Hermosa Beach, CA.

I always wondered why we didn't have a dynamic singles ministry out there in CA like this one and would send prayer requests to Louie and his church to pray for Hermosa Beach and our surrounding beach cities at the height of my politicking to change the drinking and partying culture there.

God moved in Hermosa and we did see some change. Then I moved out of the area and stopped my involvement because I was burnt out. Trying to change a beach community built on years and years and years of drinking and partying wasn't what I wanted to spend the rest of my life doing.

Plus, when you're the only single person speaking out on the issue, it doesn't necessarily make you popular with other singles who happen to like drinking and partying very much.:)

I realized sometimes you have to let go and let God. God is moving there without me since I know others who have picked up the cause, or continue to fight for it.:) Just not my issue any more.

God continued to move in my life and eventually after a short stint back in Hollywood and other factors, decided it was finally time to leave CA altogether and made the trip out to GA in late July. Upon arrival, my friends invited me to attend Andy Stanley's Buckhead Church and Louie Giglio's Passion City Church which I gladly did.

I kept thinking something looked familiar and it wasn't till a few weeks of attending that I realized this was the same pastor and church environment I had watched online so many years ago which I had wanted so badly to be part of back then.

Now that I'm here it's hard to believe how much God is doing in and through this community. Buckhead Church, which is part of Northpoint Ministries and one of the five campuses, is where I've been attending most regularly. These past few weeks seeing God's love in action through the lives of those who attend has blown me away.

What I really like about Pastor Andy Stanley is he gets how people need challenges (men especially. Ever read Wild At Heart? I did and it really helped me understand men and their need for challenges. More pastors need to read it!), BIG challenges, and he and his team created the Be Rich 11 campaign to do just that.

Apparently, every year for seven weeks in November through December, the entire church is encouraged to Give and Serve to bless the community. Donations are given above and beyond our regular tithing which are not used by the church at all. Just donated straight to the charities designated as beneficiaries. Last year they raised $500,000 which all went straight to a range of charities spread throughout all of Atlanta, GA.

This year, Andy encouraged us to give more and gave us a goal of 1 million for the entire seven weeks of this Be Rich 11 campaign. Here's the video to show you what the entire Be Rich 11 Campaign is all about:

Be Rich Opener 2011 from North Point Media.

WELL! Not only did we as a Christian body raise ONE MILLION DOLLARS, but we did it in a week's time and raised a total of ONE POINT SEVEN MILLION DOLLARS! I was blown away hearing this because I know they will distribute it straight to so many charities throughout the city that are really hurting financially in this economy.

Amazing generosity out here in Georgia! What one of my friends pointed out that he appreciated and I do too, is that now that goal is achieved, we're moving onto the next one rather than continuing to raise money like other fundraisers might have been tempted to do.

Our next challenge was to commit to volunteering as a church community for a total of 8,000 service hours during that specific time frame yet again and these opportunities are explained in the following videos as recommended suggestions.

Please watch because the quality is amazing and this will explain everything much better than I can:

Be Rich 2011 Causes: Sickness from North Point Media.

Be Rich 2011 Causes: Poverty from North Point Media.

Not only did people volunteer, we now have 13,000 service hours on the books which will be done over the next few weeks! Again, amazing generosity and seeing God's love in action blows me away!

Now that it's Thanksgiving week, we're invited to help collect 25 TONS OF FOOD to fill pantries of local food banks. That's 25 NFL teams in food form and will serve 5,000 people a week. The church broke it down and that's 2 lbs per person to achieve our goal.

I know, sounds impossible, right? But as I begin to know these Southern Christians the little I do, I have no doubt it will happen. Here's the video to explain it all visually if you learn by hearing:

Be Rich 2011 Causes: Hunger from North Point Media.

Isn't this amazing? No wonder the church is busting at the seams to hold everyone. Did you know this Christian community at Northpoint is the second largest church in the country? Wouldn't you want to be part of something this dynamic? I know I do. 

I love how all these efforts are based on the Bible verse found in I Timothy 6:18 too: "Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share."

God's love in action. I love it.  

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen. (Ephesians 3:20-21)

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I'll keep you posted on the results of this 25 ton food goal!

 

Welcome to Atlanta! My experiences with @samsung #Summer Splash, #Alon Bakery Market, @Comcastcares, @comcastbill @ATTCustomerCare #OC BBQ Bonanza @louiegiglio @Christomlin @passioncity and more...

By Joy A. Kennelly

Well, well, well. This blog post has been a long time coming now hasn't it? Upon arriving in Atlanta I had nothing but internet and phone troubles and am on my 3rd phone now, a Samsung Galaxy, and still experiencing battery failures, GPS screw-ups, and other hassles, but hey, whatever! (Samsung if you're reading this, hit me up. I hate this fast battery drain and need help!:)

Otherwise, life is grand out here in Hotlanta! I love the Southern hospitality and the weather is growing on me.

I do mean, HOT, HOT, HOT!:) It took me almost a week to acclimate and realize the more time I spent in air conditioning, the less time I will spend passing out or dripping wet.:) Temperatures haven't varied much from the 90's except for the occasional rain storm when the weather drops to around 80, but the balmy nights more than make up for the scorching days.

To break the heat, my friend and I decided to hit Sandy Spring's Summer Splash and inner tube down the Chattahoochee River with the rest of Georgia. I believe I heard rumor about 4000 people went? It's the 4th Annual Summer Splash and was so relaxing and fun.

Click here to see the photo album our local Sandy Springs Patch created: http://sandysprings.patch.com/articles/summer-splash-photo-gallery?upload_started=1312733492#photo-7202964

It was so much fun going down the sporadic rapids and just lazily floating down a river with the most beautiful scenery we have seen in a long time. Nice people along the way too. I would have taken pix, but didn't bring my phone because I was worried about tipping over and losing it.

I caught this one at the end though. Isn't this scenery just gorgeous? LOVE IT! I've added more of my pix to the official Patch site which you can click on above to view.Despite numerous promises by Comcast and AT & T to have switched our service by August 8, we are still without wireless in the house which has required me to camp out at various cafes around town until August 18.

We dislike both companies' customer service and service overall because they keep changing everything constantly and require my roomie Brenda to sit for hours on the phone while they do who knows what behind the scenes to make the switch, but when you live surrounded by trees you're somewhat limited on your choices.

Comcast Bill and ATT Customer Care help us out here! We can't deal with the incompentence of your companies much longer... Seriously!:)

That said, it's been fun to sit in various cafes and observe how people dress, speak, chat and interact while I'm working. My favorite cafes to date are Alon Bakery Market (seen below, but for the full impact, click the link!:) and Caribou Coffee, which is comfy cozy, and there's always Starbucks too.

Weird there is no Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf out here, but lots of interesting cafes still left to explore. Isn't Alon adorable? Reminds of a much bigger Joan's on Third back home.

I have been busy promoting our upcoming OC BBQ Bonanza at the Fountain Valley Sports Complex taking place August 18 - 21 across the internet and inviting foodie bloggers and media to attend our private press event on August 18, 2011 in addition to looking for work and exploring Atlanta. 

Click the link here: http://www.ocbbqbonanza.com/ for more information. We're offering special discounts to military, children and everyone else too. Plus, there's an amazing VIP Rib Village open to the public where you can buy all the ribs, drinks, and sides you want to enjoy in an exclusive area during the festival.

More details here: http://www.ocbbqbonanza.com/rib-village.php

If you fit the media/blogger catetory and are interested in covering this as press, please send an email to: vipribvillage (at) gmail (dot) com with a link to your site, your media outlet, what you cover and we'll send you information if you qualify. 

Other than that, real quick, I am thoroughly enjoying being out here. I was getting so bored in CA having grown up there. Now? Everything is new and fun to explore with my two CA girlfriends, Brenda and Anne, who moved out before me. We call ourselves the CA2GA girls (get it?:) and plot all kinds of fun adventures together.

Here's a pic from our recent excursion to the High Museum of Art which I particularly love because it's like art is imitating life, or is it the other way around? You tell me...:)We're still getting asked why we moved out here, but rather than go into everything here in this particular blog, I'm going to write one specifically addressing it later. For now, just know the men are friendlier and nicer; Atlanta is extremely sophisticated and cosmopolitan contrary to the myopic belief in LA; there's plenty of opportunity to create a new life and find work; I've found a wonderful writing group: http://www.meetup.com/roswell-alpharetta-writersgroup/  lead by a real dynamo with amazing writers and a publishing company attached; the art scene is eclectic and varied; the food is some of the best in the nation; the music scene beats LA hands down; too many quaint towns and homes to see; lots and lots of gorgeous nature; more faith-oriented people than CA by a long shot (19% vs. 38%); there's always something going on and it's the positive change I was needing.

So much happier!:) And with that, I'm off!

Tonight is Passion City Church with Louie Giglio and Chris Tomlin and I need a little nappie poo today after my busy week last week.:) Enjoy this song by Chris!

 

Momentum - We're not done yet! And other musings on singlehood.

By Joy A. Kennelly

I used to write long written blog posts on a daily basis a few years back, but switched to more photo stories because if I'm covering an event, an issue, or something I want to discuss sometimes writing a good blog can take anywhere from two hours up to 5 hours depending on what I'm writing about.

Lately my hands have been hurting since I'm on the computer so much job hunting and working on various projects I haven't been as motivated to write either. That said, today just felt like sharing since once September hits I have a bunch of things I've been working on all summer that I will finally be able to announce.

I also have a few new projects in the works with really amazing people which I'm very excited about. Can't say anything just yet, but will share as soon as everything is finalized. Just know it's all good.:)

I can announce I'm excited about the new singles group, Momentum, that Journey of Faith is launching this October because it's something I've been asking every church I've ever attended to create for me and my single friends since 2006!

Here's a blog post I wrote about being single in the church back then highlighting an expert's opinion on the subject too: http://thejoywriter.typepad.com/pure_unadulterated_joy/2006/12/being_single_in.html

I'll never forget attending one church and asking the pastor to start a singles ministry only to hear him say, "No, cause everyone ends up getting married." Like that's a bad thing?!

Needless to say, when his daughter was wanting to get married, guess which church started a singles group for her age group?

Yep, that one.

And the bigger burn was that only a few months later she ended up getting married. Oh, the ironies of it all. Needless to say, I left soon after.

What's great about Momentum is there are so many amazing people interested in participating. Many are very accomplished in their careers and the people I've met are very dynamic. It's so nice to finally have friends to sit with at church I can't begin to tell you the difference it's made.

I'm confident that He who has begun a good work in all of us will see it through to completion once this group officially launches October 3, 2010. We'll be having tables set up for people to sign up between services at Journey of Faith and we're already starting to meet socially unofficially which has been fun.

If you're looking for a change of pace than the bar and volleyball scene in the South Bay, then consider joining us some Sunday at 11am. A couple of us are sitting in the middle towards the back if you care to join us. All are welcome and we're all new which makes it easier to break into the group too.

This Sunday you're also welcome to join another new Christian Singles group all day at Dockweiler Beach. Bring food, drinks, guitars, and fun stuff to share with everyone. Just look for the yellow kite or call Shawn Michaels 310 488-6784 when you've arrived.

I'm coming later for the beach bonfire after the Journey Tribute band at Polliwog Park.

Happy Labor Day weekend!

God vs. Science - Brilliant! This is especially for my good friend Bill B. - Enjoy the read all.

I did not write this, but enjoyed it very much and in light of a recent discussion on Facebook thought some of my other friends might enjoy the read. Have a good one.:)

 

"In hopes that all our college students are able to articulate this well.
 
In a College classroom with a professor teaching a philosophy lesson.......
 
'Let me explain the problem science has with religion.'
The atheist professor of philosophy pauses before his class and then asks one of his new students to stand. 
 
You're a Christian, aren't you, son?'

'Yes sir,' the student says.

'So you believe in God?'
 
'Absolutely.. '

'Is God good?'

'Sure! God's good.'
 
'Is God all-powerful? Can God do anything?'
 
'Yes'

'Are you good or evil?'
 
'The Bible says I'm evil.'

The professor grins knowingly. 'Aha! The Bible! He considers for a moment. 'Here's one for you. Let's say there's a sick person over here and you can cure him. You can do it. Would you help him? Would you try?'

'Yes sir, I would.'
 
'So you're good...!'

'I wouldn't say that.'

'But why not say that? You'd help a sick and maimed person if you could. Most of us would if we could. But God doesn't.'
 
The student does not answer, so the professor continues.
'He doesn't, does he? My brother was a Christian who died of cancer, even though he prayed to Jesus to heal him. How is this Jesus good? Can you answer that one?'

The student remains silent.
 
'No, you can't, can you?' the professor says. He takes a sip of water from a glass on his desk to give the student time to relax. 'Let's start again, young fella. Is God good?'

'Er..yes,' the student says.
 
'Is Satan good?'

The student doesn't hesitate on this one. 'No.'

'Then where does Satan come from?'
 
The student falters. 'From God'

'That's right. God made Satan, didn't he? Tell me, son. Is there evil in this world?'

'Yes, sir.'
 
'Evil's everywhere, isn't it? And God did make everything, correct?'

'Yes'
'So who created evil?' The professor continued, 'If God created everything, then God created evil, since evil exists, and according to the principle that our works define who we are, then God is evil.'

Again, the student has no answer.
 
'Is there sickness? Immorality? Hatred? Ugliness? All these terrible things, do they exist in this world?'

The student squirms on his feet.
 
'Yes.'

'So who created them?'
 
The student does not answer again, so the professor repeats his question. 'Who created them?' There is still no answer. Suddenly the lecturer breaks away to pace in front of the classroom. The class is mesmerized. 'Tell me,' he continues onto another student. 'Do you believe in Jesus Christ, son?'
 
The student's voice betrays him and cracks.
 
'Yes, professor, I do.'

The old man stops pacing. 'Science says you have five senses you use to identify and observe the world around you. Have you ever seen Jesus?'
 
'No sir.. I've never seen Him.'

'Then tell us if you've ever heard your Jesus?'
 
'No, sir, I have not.'

'Have you ever felt your Jesus, tasted your Jesus or smelt your Jesus? Have you ever had any sensory perception of Jesus Christ, or God for that matter?'

'No, sir, I'm afraid I haven't.'

'Yet you still believe in him?'

'Yes'

'According to the rules of empirical, testable, demonstrable protocol, science says your God doesn't exist. What do you say to that, son?'

'Nothing,' the student replies. 'I only have my faith.'

'Yes, faith,' the professor repeats. 'And that is the problem science has with God. There is no evidence, only faith.'

The student stands quietly for a moment, before asking a question of His own.
 
'Professor, is there such thing as heat?'

' Yes.

'And is there such a thing as cold?'
 
'Yes, son, there's cold too.'
 
'No sir, there isn't.'
 
The professor turns to face the student, obviously interested.  The room suddenly becomes very quiet.
 
The student begins to explain.
 
'You can have lots of heat, even more heat, super-heat, mega-heat, unlimited heat, white heat, a little heat or no heat, but we don't have anything called 'cold'. We can hit down to 458 degrees below zero, which is no heat, but we can't go any further after that. There is no such thing as cold; otherwise we would be able to go colder than the lowest -458 degrees. Every body or object is susceptible to study when it has or transmits energy, and heat is what makes a body or matter have or transmit energy. Absolute zero (-458 F) is the total absence of heat.
 
You see, sir, cold is only a word we use to describe the absence of heat.  We cannot measure cold. Heat we can measure in thermal units because heat is energy. Cold is not the opposite of heat, sir, just the absence of it.'

Silence across the room. A pen drops somewhere in the classroom, sounding like a hammer.

'What about darkness, professor. Is there such a thing as darkness?'
 
'Yes,' the professor replies without hesitation. 'What is night if it isn't darkness?'
 
'You're wrong again, sir. Darkness is not something; it is the absence of something. You can have low light, normal light, bright light, flashing light, but if you have no light constantly you have nothing and it's called darkness, isn't it? That's the meaning we use to define the word. In reality, darkness isn't. If it were, you would be able to make darkness darker, wouldn't you?'
 
The professor begins to smile at the student in front of him. This will be a good semester.
 
'So what point are you making, young man?'

'Yes, professor. My point is, your philosophical premise is flawed to start with, and so your conclusion must also be flawed.'
 
The professor's face cannot hide his surprise this time. 'Flawed?
 
Can you explain how?'

'You are working on the premise of duality,' the student explains.. 'You argue that there is life and then there's death; a good God and a bad God. You are viewing the concept of God as something finite, something we can measure. Sir, science can't even explain a thought.' 'It uses electricity and magnetism, but has never seen, much less fully understood either one. To view death as the opposite of life is to be ignorant of the fact that death cannot exist as a substantive thing. Death is not the opposite of life, just the absence of it.' 'Now tell me, professor. Do you teach your students that they evolved from a monkey?'

'If you are referring to the natural evolutionary process, young man, yes, of course I do.'

'Have you ever observed evolution with your own eyes, sir?'

The professor begins to shake his head, still smiling, as he realizes where the argument is going. A very good semester, indeed.

'Since no one has ever observed the process of evolution at work and cannot even prove that this process is an on-going endeavor, are you not teaching your opinion, sir? Are you now not a scientist, but a preacher?'

The class is in uproar. The student remains silent until the commotion has subsided.
 
'To continue the point you were making earlier to the other student, let me give you an example of what I mean.' The student looks around the room. 'Is there anyone in the class who has ever seen the professor's brain?' The class breaks out into laughter. 'Is there anyone here who has ever heard the professor's brain, felt the professor's brain, touched or smelt the professor's brain? No one appears to have done so. So, according to the established rules of empirical, stable, demonstrable protocol, science says that you have no brain, with all due respect, sir.' 'So if science says you have no brain, how can we trust your lectures, sir?'
 
Now the room is silent. The professor just stares at the student, his face unreadable. Finally, after what seems an eternity, the old man answers. 'I Guess you'll have to take them on faith.'

'Now, you accept that there is faith, and, in fact, faith exists with life,' the student continues. 'Now, sir, is there such a thing as evil?'
 
Now uncertain, the professor responds, 'Of course, there is. We see it Everyday. It is in the daily example of man's inhumanity to man.. It is in The multitude of crime and violence everywhere in the world. These manifestations are nothing else but evil.'
 
To this the student replied, 'Evil does not exist sir, or at least it does not exist unto itself. Evil is simply the absence of God. It is just like darkness and cold, a word that man has created to describe the absence of God. God did not create evil. Evil is the result of what happens when man does not have God's love present in his heart. It's like the cold that comes when there is no heat or the darkness that comes when there is no light.'
 
The professor sat down. 
  
If you read it all the way through and had a smile on your face when you finished, mail to your friends and family with the title 'God vs Science'

PS: The student was Albert Einstein

Albert Einstein wrote a book titled God vs Science in 1921... 

Great sermon from Ken Ballard at Church of the Beach Cities

By Joy A. Kennelly

Normally I have to type in all the notes from a sermon at my old church which took hours. I didn't mind then because I had extra time and really wanted people to read the encouragement.

Now I'm delighted to inform you that if you're curious about what pirates and God have to do with each other you can read my Pastor Ken's great sermon from this past Sunday online at our Church of the Beach Cities site here. So nice to have tech savvy people to connect with!

Since some of you might be struggling with what to do with your life, or other struggles in your life due to the economy, family relationships, business climate etc, I thought you might appreciate a little word of encouragement that God hears you and loves you right where you are. The sermon is the first one in a series entitled:

Pirates (Reclaiming Your Stolen Treasure)

God has a purpose for your life and it’s a good one, but Satan also has a purpose for your life; he wants to steal your joy, kill your dreams and destroy your relationships. In this creative series, Pastor Kerry will help you reclaim the God- given rights that were once yours – rights that have long been stolen away.

“The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy. My purpose is to give life in all its fullness.” John 10:10

Click on the link above for the sermon, or click www.churchofthebeachcities.net to check out the church and come join us some Sunday.

Okay, that's all for now. Have to run, but since I discovered this quick and easy to "spread the word" thought I'd share.

Have a good one!

Church of the Beach Cities welcomes you to kick off the New Year with God.

By Joy A. Kennelly

I decided since it's Sunday and it's a day when you wake up wondering what to do sometimes, that I'd invite you to consider attending my church with me. It's called Church of the Beach Cities and is located in Manhattan Beach, CA right below Polliwog Park off Manhattan Beach Blvd, on Redondo Ave at the Manhattan Beach Elementary School.

We meet at 9am and 11am today and 6pm last night at that location.7pm tonight at the church office is a Brazilian service lead in Portuguese by Pastor Billy who is Brazilian for all the Brazilians in the house.(I love writing Brazilian - can you tell? lol)

I love this church because it is so multi-cultural and friendly and welcomes everyone who visits so warmly. I've said this before, but in case this is your first time hearing of it - we have an African American pastor, a Brazilian pastor and a white pastor married to an East Indian woman. Isn't that cool? I just love multi-racial church services because that's what heaven is going to be like and that's what the world is like now.

Plus, Church of the Beach Cities are interested in growing which makes it fun because then you have more opportunities to get involved in ministries and help out and invite people. What Pastor Ken was sharing recently is that too often people go to church and they just sit and only absorb the message. They absorb so much without giving back in service that they become "obese" with God. I liked that image because it's so true.

If all you ever do is take in God's word and you don't apply it to your life through additional Bible study with others who want to grow too, service to others or telling others, then you're going to overload on the good stuff! I want my life to be growing spiritually and you can only do that when you get involved in weekly Bible Studies where you can grow with others on a more personal level, help out in some capacity with a ministry or volunteer opportunity, and just give back.

Since working with small children wasn't really my thing (although I love them and they love me!), I didn't really have an outlet at my last church which is one of the reasons I decided to move on. I do miss everyone there still, but know this is where God has me for now. I needed the accountability and friendships with singles I now have too. I've been going to church since I was a child and once my life was back on track with God I wanted to grow faster and give back more.

I still struggle daily with my sins and succumb even when I don't want to and vow to never do that particular sin again, but the like the Bible says, the spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak. I believe it was Paul who says in the Bible,

“To keep me from becoming conceited because of these surpassingly great revelations, there was given me a thorn in my flesh, a messenger of Satan, to torment me. Three times I pleaded with the Lord to take it away from me. But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” –  2 Cor. 12: 7-10

I have to run, but click on this link: http://bibleseo.com/church/thorn-in-the-flesh/ entitled Thorn in the Flesh - Paul’s Struggle for a great analysis of these scriptures - it may help you with something you're spiritually struggling with too!

Oh, and if you care to join me today, here's a link to Church of the Beach Cities site for all the details: http://www.churchofthebeachcities.net/

See ya there! Oh, and for those wondering whatever happened to my cooking my chicken breasts and the fire alarms? I had to pull all of them off the ceiling to make them stop, but I did get my chicken cooked to perfection. Although, my apartment did smell of curry for a few days afterward until I remembered the secret my friend told me about coffee grounds absorbing scents you don't want.

Whew! Now I know what I don't know about cooking which will come in handy when Chef Dave begins writing up some of his recipes for his new cook book we're beginning to work on together. I'll just have to be his guniea pig in the kitchen because I'm pretty clueless when it comes to cooking and then we can see what works for those who are like me. LOL

I do cook a mean lasagna though I will give myself that. :)

Okay, that's all for now. Gotta run. Have a great Sunday everyone and remember, God loves you and so do I!

If you're looking for a Christmas service today - Church of the Beach Cities

By Joy A. Kennelly

I'm going to be late getting there, but if you're not sure where to go to hear a Christmas Service, please consider joining us at Church of the Beach Cities located at the Manhattan Beach Elementary School on Redondo and Manhattan Beach Blvd in Manhattan Beach just below Polliwog Park.

See you there! I'm late - gotta run. Have a great Sunday whatever you end up doing! I'm also going to hit the Dream Center's big toy giveaway at the USC Galen Center - join me there too! They need volunteers and are giving away presents to over 10,000 needy families!

You missed yesterday's wonderful Beach Cities Toy Drive which was our communities gift wrapping party at the Jocelyn Center - but trust me, it was really special. Very wonderful how everyone in Manhattan and Hermosa comes together to help by donating new toys, wrapping and then distributing them to so many needy charities.

God bless Sam Edgerton for starting it I believe with Pete Tucker and God bless all of you who participated because that's what Christmas is all about - giving of ourselves, our time and our resources with love. God is love and sent his son to die for you and your sins. Accept his free gift today and be forgiven. God bless!

Have a wonderful Sunday - Now I'm really late!:)

"Getting Past the Past" message this morning by Jim Mackinga - really great!

By Joy A. Kennelly

Just got back from church and have a few minutes before I hit the Taste of Santa Monica event. Just thought I'd share the words of wisdom my Pastor, Jim Mackinga of Bay Cities Community Church, shared this morning because I feel like it and because I felt rather convicted. OY!

That's the beauty and the rub of being a Christian. You're held to a higher standard than most people who aren't following the Bible and as a result, you must consider changing what's not in alignment with God's will for your life.

Novel concept, eh? Living by a higher standard. But I'm trying. Don't always succeed (as evidenced last week), but every time I fall down, it's only a chance to get back up again and work harder to be different. Maybe I should apologize to that woman I called a bitch and told to F off. LOL

OY! I hate being humbled every Sunday, but if it helps me to be a better person I'll keep coming back for more.

Now before I share the message with you, here's a link to a really eye-opening article on the double standard of the media re: Sarah Palin as a working mother vs. the female journalists who are covering her. This will make you laugh at the hypocrisy. Katie Couric, Meredith Viera, Campbell Brown anyone?

Sisterhood of the Protected Female Liberal Journalists by Michelle Malkin

Okay, no here's Pastor Jim's message. Looks like this is the first of a series, so if you like what you read, consider joining us at Bay Cities Community Church Sundays at 8am and 9:30am. The link has the directions and details. Thanks!

Getting Past the Past

Relationship Help
Part 1

Philippians 3:12-13:

Focused on the Goal

    ^{12 -14}I'm not saying that I have this all together, that I have it made. But I am well on my way, reaching out for Christ, who has so wondrously reached out for me. Friends, don't get me wrong: By no means do I count myself an expert in all of this, but I've got my eye on the goal, where God is beckoning us onward—to Jesus. I'm off and running, and I'm not turning back.

How To Move Beyond Your Past

1. We need to get rid of grudges.

How to Move Beyond Grudges

A. By letting go of anger.

Ephesians 4:31:

   ^{31 -32}Make a clean break with all cutting, backbiting, profane talk. Be gentle with one another, sensitive. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you. 

Job 18:4a

      ⁴"O you who tear yourself in your anger--

B. By settling resentments.

Job 5:2:

    ² Surely resentment destroys the fool, and jealousy kills the simple.

C. By giving away Forgiveness.

Ephesians 4:32:
³² Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.

2. We need to get over our grief.

2 Samuel 12:16-18:
¹⁶ David begged God to spare the child. He went without food and lay all night on the bare ground. ¹⁷ The elders of his household pleaded with him to get up and eat with them, but he refused.

   ¹⁸ Then on the seventh day the child died. David’s advisers were afraid to tell him. “He wouldn’t listen to reason while the child was ill,” they said. “What drastic thing will he do when we tell him the child is dead?”

How to move beyond grief

1. Remember the goodness of God.

2 Samuel 12:22-23:

   ²² David replied, “I fasted and wept while the child was alive, for I said, ‘Perhaps the Lord will be gracious to me and let the child live.’ ²³ But why should I fast when he is dead? Can I bring him back again? I will go to him one day, but he cannot return to me.”

Jim says facing the truth about anything is freedom. Choose to face things head on.

2. Get back to your life.

2 Samuel 12:24:

   ²⁴ Then David comforted Bathsheba, his wife, and slept with her. She became pregnant and gave birth to a son, and they named him Solomon. The Lord loved the child.

How to move beyond your past

1. We need to get rid of grudges.

2. We need to get over our grief.

3. We need to give up our guilt.

Four Options with Guilt

1. We can try to hide our guilt.

Psalm 32:3-4:

    ³ When I refused to confess my sin,
      my body wasted away,
      and I groaned all day long.
    ⁴ Day and night your hand of discipline was heavy on me.
      My strength evaporated like water in the summer heat.

2. We can brag about our guilt.

Proverbs 16:18:

   ¹⁸ Pride goes before destruction,
      and haughtiness before a fall.

Proverbs 29:23a

   ²³ Pride ends in humiliation,

3. We can replay our guilt over and over.

Psalm 32:4

    ⁴ Day and night your hand of discipline was heavy on me.
      My strength evaporated like water in the summer heat.Interlude

Matthew 27:3-5:

   ³Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,

   ⁴Saying, I have sinned in that I have betrayed the innocent blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to that.

   ⁵And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and departed, and went and hanged himself.

4. We can admit failure and seek help with guilt.

Psalm 32:5:

    ⁵ Finally, I confessed all my sins to you
      and stopped trying to hide my guilt.
   I said to myself, “I will confess my rebellion to the Lord.”
      And you forgave me! All my guilt is gone.Interlude

Gotta run! Have a good one.

Thanks for praying. Deb's Dad is doing real well.

By Joy A. Kennelly

Just heard from Deborah and her father actually recognized her and spoke for the first time in a week since having brain surgery. Amazing difference. He's still recovering and it's extremely critical time for him.

Please continue to pray for Deborah, Rick, her Dad, Mary Pat, her Mom, and her brother and sister as they're dealing with this incredible battle for his life. Thanks.

Now to my Sat. night. Hope you have a good one too.

I can't get enough of Coldplay's Viva La Vida! What about you?

By Joy A. Kennelly

I don't know what it is about that Coldplay song, Viva La Vida, but it always makes me speed extremely fast with the song loudly blaring with all my windows down.

Every single time.

Especially on quiet streets with 35 mph speed limits - I blast down going around 60 mph. It's like my little rebellion. I can't help it. It's like great music is my speed. Don't tell.:) It has to be the aggressively strumming violins and the chorus where I can sing at the top of my lungs to release stress.

Doesn't hurt to drive a sports car too, but that won't be for long. Plus, that song doesn't come on too often unfortunately... or fortunately.

I heard it on the way to church and then when I got out. Fortunately, it was early and hardly anyone was out on the streets. I promise to stop. Really I do.

I think if I play this song at home I'd drive my neighbor crazy playing it over and over again. Especially when I don't know all the words and only belt out the chorus. Can you relate? There is just something about that song. I just love it. It's kind of primal scream therapy or something.

Now to listen to the rest of the album. I know, what's taking me so long? If I like one song, then I don't want to ruin it with another one till I'm saturated with my favorite first.

Big sigh. It's like cheating on a boyfriend. Not that I have or will. Cheat that is, or have a boyfriend for that matter, but still - I love Viva La Vida and Coldplay!

Now, moving right along. Want to hear what I learned in church today? If not, stop reading, but if you're curious enjoy the read.

The skit was right on target as always - about driving while talking on your cell and the ensuing ticket the dad received that the wife found out about through their innocent young daughter. Too funny! I especially liked it when the dad said, "It's a ridiculous law anyway." To which I said loudly, "Amen" making people laugh.

I hate not being able to talk as I drive. Now I'm afraid to put my mascara and makeup on while driving, paint my toes, shave my legs, eat food, steer with one knee while I put my hair up in a ponytail, or anything at all! Not fair.

(Oh, and for those who don't get my sense of humor - that is sarcasm people.)

Today's sermon by Pastor Jim Mackinga of Bay Cities Community Church is called:

Avoiding the Potholes in Life

James - Practical Christian Living

Part 16

Mistakes We Can Easily Make

1. Hurting Others With Words We Say.

James 4:11a

   ^{11 -12}Don't bad-mouth each other, friends. It's God's Word, his Message, his Royal Rule, that takes a beating in that kind of talk.

I wish a former client would read this and realize that as Pastor Jim said today, "Slander is the revenge of a coward." Slander is defined as, "a malicious, false, and defamatory statement or report: a slander against his good name."

Hopefully the threatening letter I sent will shut her up once and for all. It's not my fault if the public and the media doesn't find someone of interest. It just isn't. Either they like you and want more of you, or not. Brutal truth. I don't understand it either, but that's the breaks with PR folks.

I do the same type of publicity for every client and sometimes they hit, and other times, they just don't. No matter how much I want them to, or will them to, or how hard I pitch. Especially when they stop right when they should be pushing forward because they're at a tipping point, but run out of money. Oh well.

PR can be somewhat luck of the draw - if you want guaranteed placement... Buy advertising.

But I digress. Just a sore point that's all. I'm not innocent of talking badly about people either, but it does hurt when you think someone would be happy with everything you accomplished together (which was a lot of work to get her to the point she is today - trust me!)

What's weird is that I've generally only had this trouble with certain female artists. Not all, just some who think they're more than they really are.

Oh dear, is that talking bad about someone? Darn it. It's hard isn't it? Okay, this really is all. I promise.

Thinking lovely thoughts, lovely thoughts, lovely thoughts...

Ephesians 4:31:

   ³¹ Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior.

Colossians 3:8:
⁸ But now is the time to get rid of anger, rage, malicious behavior, slander, and dirty language.

(Now Pastor Jim was meddling. Just kidding. I forgot the Bible doesn't want us swearing. Duh! Just a little reminder that Christians are supposed to live differently than the world.)

2. Improper Response to God's Law & Word.

James 4:11b

If you criticize and judge each other, then you are criticizing and judging God’s law. But your job is to obey the law, not to judge whether it applies to you.

Matthew 22:35-40:
³⁵ One of them, an expert in religious law, tried to trap him with this question: ³⁶ “Teacher, which is the most important commandment in the law of Moses?”

   ³⁷ Jesus replied,

“‘You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’^{[a] 38} This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’^{[b] 40}

The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments.”

Now this chapter was very convicting because as Pastor Jim pointed out, if we really are doing God's will, we will view everyone through God's eyes and love them as He does. Jim did admit it's harder with some people than others. Truer words have never been spoken. Ha!

3. Have a Wrong View of God Himself.

James 4:12:
¹² God alone, who gave the law, is the Judge. He alone has the power to save or to destroy. So what right do you have to judge your neighbor? (God doesn't need your help judging. Get it? LOL)

James 2:8:

   ⁸ Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.”^[a]

Philippians 2:3-4:

   ³ Don’t be selfish; don’t try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. ⁴ Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

This verse is the hardest to live out, but I'm trying. Care to join me?

How To Be Careful

1. Continue to be concerned with your words.
2. Learn to Submit to God's word.
3. Understand who's really in control.
4. Stop arrogance in every way you can.

Okay, that's all for today. May the reading of God's word bless and keep you until we meet again. Isn't that a nice closing? I've only heard it in Presbyterian churches, and I like it.

Happy Sunday! Now to get some work done.

I'm excited The Shore Restaurant and Lounge has a bunch of cool events coming up which I need to prep for. Just met with the organizers of the Hermosa Beach Shorts Fest and they will be hosting their Kick Off Party at the Shore on August 7 from 7pm - closing.

Plus,Actor Domiziano Arcangeli's Golden Halo Award for Acting Achievement from the Southern CA Motion Pictures Arts Council is right around the corner, August 4. Oy!

And you're all invited to everything too ok? See ya there! 

Finally have time to write up Pastor Jim Mackinga's great sermon "How to Get What You Want"

By Joy A. Kennelly

Here's a little recap of last week's sermon and then this past Sunday's sermon brought to you courtesy of Pastor Jim Mackinga of Bay Cities Community Church located at the Women's Club in Redondo Beach, CA.

Enjoy! Just realize I'm not perfect, just forgiven. HA! I just had to say this trite phrase because everyone always does. I do realize I'm a little more open-minded than the average Christian on certain things, but I am totally into the Bible and what it has to say.

God bless you in the reading of His word. Amen.

"How to Get What You Need"

James - Practical Christian Living

Part 15

How Normal Life Works

1. We experience turmoil then pain.
2. We try to numb the pain through pleasure.
3. We end up facing conflict and anger
4. We watch hope for satisfaction disappear.

Options when Facing Normal Life (We)

1. Try fixing things through other people.
2. Try manipulating God to do what we want.
3. Look for things in this world to satisfy.
4. Let God satisfy me and meet my needs.

Normal Needs We All Possess

1. To be secure in life.
2. To be loved in life.
3. To be valued in life.
4. To be significant in life.

How God Gives Us What We Really Need

1. By accepting the world for what it is.
James 4:4:

   ⁴ You adulterers!^[a] Don’t you realize that friendship with the world makes you an enemy of God? I say it again: If you want to be a friend of the world, you make yourself an enemy of God. (Oh dear - maybe I should rethink this again. Jim asked the question - Who is your God? and then answered, Whatever you love the most.)

The Truth about Us and the World

A. The world can not meet your needs.

B. We are designed to be dependent on Him. God is jealous over you. He LOVES you.

2. By Allowing God to Meet my Needs.

James 4:5-6:
⁵ What do you think the Scriptures mean when they say that the spirit God has placed within us is filled with envy?^{[a] 6} But he gives us even more grace to stand against such evil desires. As the Scriptures say,

   “God opposes the proud
      but favors the humble.”^[b]

1 John 4:13:

   ¹³ And God has given us his Spirit as proof that we live in him and he in us.

The Truth about God and Us

A. God desires to meet our needs.

B. God promises to meet our needs. God gives grace to help us. Divine intervention. My grace is sufficient for you the Bible says. God can, and will, meet your needs.

3. By renewing my relationship with God.

James 4:7-8:

   ⁷ So humble yourselves before God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. ⁸ Come close to God, and God will come close to you. Wash your hands, you sinners; purify your hearts, for your loyalty is divided between God and the world.

Steps to Renewing My Relationship with God

A. Surrender to God's leadership in life.

B. Continue resisting the devil.

C. Draw near to God.

D. Let failure affect your heart and change behavior.

4. By placing our hope and trust in God.

James 4:10:
¹⁰ Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up in honor.

Psalm 37:4:

    ⁴ Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.

My Part, God's Part

1. To humble yourself is to simply respond to Him.

2. God promises that He will impact your life.

This Can Be Your Future

Isaiah 40:28-31:

   ²⁸ Have you never heard?
      Have you never understood?
   The Lord is the everlasting God,
      the Creator of all the earth.
   He never grows weak or weary.
      No one can measure the depths of his understanding.
   ²⁹ He gives power to the weak
      and strength to the powerless.
   ³⁰ Even youths will become weak and tired,
      and young men will fall in exhaustion.
   ³¹ But those who trust in the L

ord

will find new strength.
      They will soar high on wings like eagles.
   They will run and not grow weary.
      They will walk and not faint.

What is a Peacemaker? Very convicting sermon this morning. Enjoy!

By Pastor Greg Johnson - guest pastor of Bay Cities Community Church this morning.

A quick intro. I really enjoyed today's sermon by Pastor Jim's brother-in-law and since I haven't been quoting them in a long time thought you might appreciate reading this too. Very convicting for me and something I'm going to work harder at achieving.

You?

God bless you on this sweltering hot Sunday!

What is a Peacemaker?

"Becoming More of a Peacemaker"

A peacemaker - someone who wants to make peace. Their goal in life is to make peace.
Peace has been described as absence of conflict. God calls us to resolution of conflict.

1. A Peacemaker is blessed in life. When you're a peacemaker, you're putting yourself in the position to be blessed by God.

Matthew 5:9:

   ⁹Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

Psalm 128:1:

¹How blessed is everyone who fears the LORD, Who walks in His ways.

Faith must change our mindset to alter the way we live.

2. A Peacemaker is a child of God.

Matthew 5:9:

   ⁹"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God."

Galatians 3:26:

   ²⁶For you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:14:

   ¹⁴For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God.

Galatians 5:22-25:

   ²²But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

   ²³gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.

   ²⁴Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.

   ²⁵If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit. (It becomes more difficult to do what's wrong when we live a Christian life.)

3. A Peacemaker rejects living a self-centered life.

Romans 12:1:

   ¹Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship.

Philippians 2:3-4:

   ³Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves;

   ⁴do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others.

1 Peter 2:1:

  ¹Therefore, putting aside all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander of every kind. (Okay, now the pastor's meddling where he don't belong. JUST KIDDING! This one especially struck home.)

Peace loving flows from a pure heart. God doesn't want us to be peacemakers when we're too old to do any good. He wants primetime peacemakers!

4. A Peacemaker leans on God's wisdom.

James 3:17:

   ¹⁷But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy.

Job 12:12:

      ¹²"Wisdom is with aged men, with long life is understanding. (It takes time to develop wisdom.)

Ephesians 1:15:

   ¹⁵For this reason I too, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which exists among you and your love for all the saints,

When you decided to do what's right you give God the chance to be great.

5. A Peacemaker knows real peace comes with a price tag.

Romans 12:18:

   ¹⁸If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.

1 Kings 18:17:

   ¹⁷When Ahab saw Elijah, Ahab said to him, "Is this you, you troubler of Israel?"

A. You must become vulnerable to those you wish to impact.

    Philippians 2:6-9:

   ⁶who, although He existed in the form of God, did not regard equality with God a thing to be grasped, ⁷but emptied Himself, taking the form of a bond-servant, and being made in the likeness of men.  ⁸Being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross.  ⁹For this reason also, God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name,

B. You must change your opinion about your enemies.

Matthew 5:43-45:

   ⁴³"You have heard that it was said, 'YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR and hate your enemy.'

   ⁴⁴"But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,

   ⁴⁵so that you may be sons of your Father who is in heaven; for He causes His sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous.

3. Peacemaking behavior is the mark of a changed life.

Luke 9:29-30:

   ²⁹And while He was praying, the appearance of His face became different, and His clothing became white and gleaming.

   ³⁰And behold, two men were talking with Him; and they were Moses and Elijah,

6. A Peacemaker brings the Hope of Heaven to lost people.

1 Peter 3:15:

   ¹⁵but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence;

And I'll close with the phrase I hear in so many churches that I just love, "May God richly bless you in the reading of His Word."

God bless you and have a great day!

What is it with Easter mornings?

By Joy A. Kennelly

What cracks me up about Easter is that it's the epitome of what makes the Christian faith what it is and for the last two years I've been rudely awakened creating the most foul mood in me ever.

Last year I was living close to a big church in town who runs an early morning Easter program in their parking lot. It's designed to bring the neighbors in and apparently it's well attended.

I wouldn't know because I wasn't feeling well that Sunday and was awakened at 7am by loud worship music that I could have sworn was coming from a car beneath my window it was that loud. Needless to say, I was royally p.o'ed and wrote a scathing email to everyone in leadership over there to tell them that if this is they way they're trying to reach the community for God, it was a lousy way to do it.

I of course felt bad and wrote a retraction the next day, but by then the damage was done. Would have been very curious to live there this year to see if they remembered and changed the way they handled their music program out doors. Doesn't matter.

This morning's rude awakening was far worse. I fell asleep for about an hour at midnight before I was awakened by LOUD yelling between my new neighbor (whose bitchy high-pitched voice was like nails scratching on a chalkboard) and my normally very mellow, cool, nice male neighbor set to the tune of Abba's Mama Mia playing very loudly at 2am.

Over what? I couldn't tell you.

It went on for almost half an hour before I couldn't take it any longer and went out to the staircase and yelled SHUT THE F UP OR I'M CALLING THE POLICE. I yelled that twice which seemed to work, but I called the police anyway just to make sure. Now I haven't sworn like that in awhile and the only thought that kept going through my head was that Domi was right. The bad Joy is right below the surface just dying to break out. LOL

Have to admit, it felt good to let it out because if they had continued I don't know what I would have done. NOTHING makes me angrier than being awakened out of a deep sleep for no good reason. People know not to call me early in the morning (before 8am) because of how I answer the phone. When you live alone you're used to peace and quiet early in the a.m. unless you create the noise.

I'm working on being nicer about this, but it just bugs me no end. Especially since her BS went on and on, albeit a little quieter, till 4am by my account and 5am by my neighbor who lives closest to this rude girl. What was a huge bummer for my new sweet (good) neighbor is that this was her first night actually staying the night here and her son was with her too. What a horrible welcome.

I'm just hoping the landlady sets this new bitch straight because I don't know what I'll do if she does this again. I'm not blaming my male neighbor because he must have been extremely provoked to lose it like he did since he's such a mellow guy. Now if he does it again, that's another story. OY! I don't need this drama. Welcome to Hermosa, right?

I was worried I'd over sleep because I was supposed to help with the tour through Jerusalem that my church built and created over at our Lomita campus. Not to fear, despite less than 5 hours of sleep I woke up, showered and made it on time.

What an amazing creation! First you went through the marketplace of Jerusalem where the first actress described what it was like now that Jesus had been dead for three days. What I loved were the children who were the sellers. This one little boy, probably not more than 9, was supposed to be selling fabric. He was throwing it in the air, yelling fabric for sale, fabric for sale, for the first couple of groups.

However, when I peeked in after a few more tours had gone through this poor little guy was laying on the table wrapped in the fabric. The food seller little boy kept asking me, "How many more tours?" He was so over it and at one point ripped his costume off. He also buried his head in his trough of potatoes as if to say, I'm done. Leave me alone! Kids totally crack me up.

It was so nice to have the diversion and to calm down after such an awful morning. I felt so guilty sitting in the church afterwards because I'd been such a bitch on wheels, but after hearing the amazing music sung by my favorite singers and musicians, I calmed down enough to enjoy the service and the day.

My church has so much creativity it's busting at the seams. There are such servant hearts there who work tirelessly and without recognition I just want to give a big shout out to them because they really do holidays right!

There was another tour to the Upper Room where all the "disciples" sat around the last supper explaining their perspective of Jesus' death. Then we moved on in the tour to the empty tomb where a Roman centurion was storming around furious they had let Jesus escape and worried that he would be killed.

What I loved about that scenario is that it really made Jesus' coming to life real. They had draped a cave with cloth that looked like rock and an area where we were able to enter to see the empty shroud. We then were lead behind the back church building where we bumped in the "man in Damascus" or whoever he was. Sorry, tired and I forget.

He proclaimed his version of meeting Jesus and that He was alive! That brought tears to my eyes because that's the basic tenant of my faith and made me realize how precious that really is to me. I have to remember that no matter how awful I am, God still loves me just as I am which gives me great peace.

My little tour group then walked around to the open space of the huge backyard where tables, umbrellas and chairs were set up around a wonderful BBQ setting! Tri-tip, chicken, ham and lovely fixings, drinks, and desserts.

Almost made me want to call my parents and say, Let's eat Easter dinner here! But I really wanted to cook a special meal I saw in a magazine for them so opted not to.  After a quick listen to Jim's sermon and great music, I was off to my parents to cook for the next three hours.

No wonder I don't cook on a regular basis. It's a lot of work. But so worth it. I couldn't get over how well it turned out and how inexpensive such a nice meal was. My parents were amused by me because they cook at home every night, whereas I eat out almost all the time. They were very pleased to have me treat them to something special and now want me to cook at every major special occasion. That I can handle.

Next time I'll have to invite more people over! As it was, I was kind of relieved I hadn't because immediately after dinner I fell into a deep sleep to catch up on all the lost hours from this morning. So, despite an awful beginning, I must say today was a very nice Easter after all.

Now, I'm going to bed. Where's my Desperate Housewives?

Have a good one.

I've been so inspired by Lysa Terkeurst this morning...

By Joy A. Kennelly

I just found an old devotional from Proverbs 31 Ministries that I almost deleted without reading, but I'm so glad I took the time to read this! Lysa TerKeurst is the most amazing woman! She's the President of Proverbs 31 ministry which I'm always quoting here because I just love their devotionals so much.

Here's their Mission Statement off the website and I quote:

"Proverbs 31 Ministries brings God’s peace, perspective, and purpose to today’s busy woman.
               
Proverbs 31 Ministries is a non-denominational, non-profit Christian ministry that seeks to lead women into a personal relationship with Christ. With Proverbs 31:10-31 as a guide, Proverbs 31 Ministries reaches women right in the middle of their busy day through free daily devotions, radio program, speaking events, conferences, monthly magazine, resources, online communities, and Gather and Grow groups. We are real women offering real-life solutions to women who are striving to maintain life’s balance, in spite of today’s hectic pace and cultural pull away from godly principals. Wherever a woman may be on her spiritual journey, Proverbs 31 Ministries exists to be a trusted friend who takes her by the hand and walks by her side, leading her one step closer to the heart of God."

She was also featured on Oprah last year for her adoption of two Liberian orphans which inspired the rest of her community of Christian friends to adopt over 31 other orphans too! Here's a link to that story here. What an amazing testimony to her life and the influence she has had on so many people.

It brought tears to my eyes watching it again. Please take a moment to watch it too because you will love it! I had seen this Oprah show back then, but had no idea Lysa was involved with this ministry group at all. God is so amazing in how He uses the simplest, humblest people in the world to accomplish great things.

What a testimony to God's love, compassion, direction and care for those who are hurting. I have volunteered among Hungarian orphan children right out of college and my heart goes out to any child who must grow up without parents. No matter what we think of the upbringing we might have experienced, at least we had parents who loved us in their own way.

I'm grateful for the Christian values my parents instilled in me that I try to live out each day. I don't always do a good job of being Christ-like, but I'm trying at least. That's what so great about being a Christian. We're all human and we fail, but God loves us and accepts us right where we are. While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us and became the way for us to have a right relationship with God.

What I love about that too, is that it's a free gift from God that anyone can take advantage of. It's not limited to race, upbringing, status in life, or anything else that society normally tries to discriminate against. When I was little struggling with this concept, I didn't think God would love me because of my freckles!

However, God's love and acceptance is pure, all encompassing and there for the taking whenever you're ready to reach out and accept Him into your life.

What's so amazing about God too is that He will change your life from the inside out. No matter how horrible a life you might have lived until this point, God will cleanse you of your sins and make you pure again. When we sin, we just need to ask for forgiveness, repent, and try to use that experience as a chance to move forward and not repeat it again. If you've been reading for awhile, you know I mess up constantly, but I do try to make amends and move forward.

My heart's desire from anyone reading my blog is to realize that yes, I can totally "F" up and I've done it publicly often. However, I also accept my error and confess my sin to you and to God to become a better person. God is so much bigger than anything bad we've ever done.

If you are reading my blog and wonder how can you too have a faith in God that will radically change who you are right now, then please read the following. I've taken it from a cool website called The Road to Salvation and if you click on the link, you can receive a free Bible.

I'm not the best evangelist so read what this person says as the way to come to know God and I quote:

"If you have made the choice to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior you may say this prayer as a way to express your new found faith in Jesus. The prayer and the words themselves do not provide for salvation, but the belief in what those words mean - the free salvation of God - is what is important to God. Prayer is talking with God. God knows your heart and is not so concerned with your words as He is with the attitude of your heart.

The following is a suggested prayer:

Dear God,

I acknowledge that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. I believe that He was born of the Virgin Mary. I believe that He died on the cross, that His blood was shed for my sins and that He arose from the dead. I confess that I have disobeyed your commandments.

I ask you to forgive me for these sins. I now ask Jesus to come into my heart. Be my Savior. Be my Lord. Be my soon coming King. I will live my life to obey your teaching as recorded in the Bible. Thank you, in Jesus name. Amen

Does this prayer express the desire of your heart? If it does, pray this prayer right now as a way to express and confirm your choice to follow Jesus. Christ will come into your life, as He promised and give you eternal life through his sacrifice on the cross.

Questions New Believers have

What is Salvation?

Who is God?

What is the Bible?

Who is Jesus Christ?

What is sin?

Why does God allow sin?

Can any sin be forgiven?

What is Grace?

How does faith in God's grace bring salvation?

Here's the answers:

Who is God?

God is the creator of the heavens and the earth, He is our savior, He is our heavenly Father to those who become His children by faith in His Son, Jesus Christ. God is eternal, holy, infinite, just, omnipotent, omnipresent, omniscient and God is Love!

Isaiah 40:28

Do you not know? Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth, He will not grow tired or weary, and His understanding no one can fathom.

John 4:7-9

Let us love one another, for love comes from God. Everyone who loves has been born of God and knows God. Whoever does not love does not know God because God is love. This is how God showed His love He sent His one and only Son into the world that we might love through Him.

What is the Bible?

The bible is God's message to us, it is His Word and it can be trusted to tell us the truth about Him. The bible gives us insight into the will of God and prepares us to do His work.

Timothy 3:16-17

All scripture is God breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness; so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Who is Jesus Christ?

Christ is the Son of God who makes us sons and daughters of God through faith. Christ is the only way to salvation.

John 14:6

I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.

What is sin?

We sin when we commit acts which are contrary to God's holy standard of righteousness. We sin when we fail to do what we know is the right thing to do. We sin when we have unrighteous attitudes.  We have ALL sinned and must look to Jesus Christ for Salvation.

Romans 3:23

For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Why does God allow sin? God created man with the freedom to choose. He did not want robots that were forced to respond to His every direction. He took a risk in order to have a relationship with His created beings.

Can any sin be forgiven?

Forgiveness is not based on the magnitude of the sin, but the magnitude of the forgiver's love. No sin is too great for God's complete and unconditional love. Forgiveness means that God looks at us as though we never sinned.

Isaiah 1:18

Come now, let us argue this out, says the Lord. No matter how deep the stain of your sins, I can remove it. I can make you as freshly fallen snow. Even if you are stained as red as crimson, I can remove it. I can make you as white as wool.

What is Grace?

When the bible says we are saved by grace, it means that God has freely chosen to pardon our sin through  Jesus Christ. We do not have to earn God's love or work our way to heaven. By grace we are forgiven for our sin and restored to full fellowship with God.

Romans 6:23

The wages of sin is death but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.

How does faith in God's grace bring salvation?

Man's belief that Jesus Christ paid the penalty for our sin is all that is required on mans part for belief or faith that Jesus Christ is the means of our salvation is the prerequisite. We do not have salvation without it. We do not receive God's free gift of grace without it.

Acts 16:31

Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved.

Okay, that's all the sermon I have for you today. Thanks for stopping by my blog. I know you weren't especially expecting something like this and to be honest, I wasn't expecting to write something like this, but I just felt lead to do so because God has impacted my life in such a strong way.

May He impact yours too. God loves you and so do I! If you're looking for a church to visit this morning, I'd like to invite you to attend Bay Cities Community Church over in Redondo Beach, CA. We have an 8am service, a 9:30am service at this location. Then, over at our Lomita campus we also have a 9:30am and 11:00am if you live closer to that area. Click on the link here for all the directions and information.

There are other churches I like on the links to the left which I hope you'll consider visiting as well if you don't live near here. If you have said that prayer and want to grow in your faith, it's important to get plugged into a church family. Like any family there will be issues, but just know people will love on you and support you like you've never experienced anywhere else. We're not perfect, just forgiven! Trite I know, but true. That forgiveness is available to you too.

If you don't like the first church you visit, please don't give up. Just continue looking because one day you'll walk in and feel like you're home. Since this is Sunday, I just guess it was time for me to preach! Hope you enjoyed the read. God bless you and come back soon. I promise not to always preach, but God put it on my heart today to share His love with you.

Happy Sunday everyone!

 

It's been awhile...thought you'd appreciate this

By Joy A. Kennelly

Seeing as so many people pop by here on the way to another thing they're searching for, I just thought I'd share what my Pastor, Jim Mackinga, over at Bay Cities Community Church feels is God's Path to Significance since I think a lot of people are searching for significance in their lives.

I hope you consider joining us someday soon to hear him live and personal. He's very funny, warm and right on in his teaching. Highly enjoyable way to spend a Sunday morning. (All the details on when, where etc. are on the church link. Check it out!)

This has been a three-part series so here's the notes from all three services (since I'm up again due to the pilot mishap yet again. Oy! Oh well, I do get more done waking up at 5am, but it sure makes for an early night.)

God's Way of Making My Life Matter

1. Significance is found in serving.

Matthew 23:11:
¹¹The greatest among you will be your servant.

1 Peter 5:2-3
²Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; ³not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.

Psalm 112:8-9:

    ⁸ His heart is secure, he will have no fear;
       in the end he will look in triumph on his foes.

    ⁹ He has scattered abroad his gifts to the poor,
       his righteousness endures forever;
       his horn ^[a] will be lifted high in honor.

Romans 12:11:
¹¹Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.

2. Significance comes through humility.

1 Peter 5:5:

    ⁵Young men, in the same way be submissive to those who are older. All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,
   "God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble."^{[a] I better work on this one!}

Matthew 23:12:
¹²For whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.

Philippians 2:8:

    ⁸And being found in appearance as a man,
      he humbled himself
      and became obedient to death—
         even death on a cross!

Proverbs 11:2:

    ² When pride comes, then comes disgrace,
       but with humility comes wisdom.

Philippians 2:3:
³Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves.

3. Significance Happens as we trust God.

1 Peter 5:7:
⁷Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Matthew 6:30-31:
³⁰If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? ³¹So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'

Philippians 4:6:
⁶Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.

Matthew 6:33-34
³³But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
³⁴Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Psalm 112:7:

    ⁷ He will have no fear of bad news;
       his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD.

Part 2 Making 2008 Better Than Ever

Living Effective for God

God's Plan is What Matters, Not Mine.

Proverbs 19:21:

    ²¹ Many are the plans in a man's heart,
       but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.

God's Plan + My Right Choices = effectiveness.

Romans 12:1-2:

Living Sacrifices

    ¹Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual^[a] act of worship. ²Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Choices That Lead to Effectiveness (Jim said this is the Christian's "Bucket List")

2 Timothy 2:3-7:
³Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. ⁴No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs—he wants to please his commanding officer. ⁵Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor's crown unless he competes according to the rules. ⁶The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops. ⁷Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this.

1. Learn to persevere in your life.

2 Timothy 2:3:
³Endure hardship with us like a good soldier of Christ Jesus.

2 Timothy 4:7:
⁷I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

2. Learn to focus on what pleases God.

2 Timothy 2:4:
⁴No one serving as a soldier gets involved in civilian affairs—he wants to please his commanding officer.

1 Thessalonians 4:1:

Living to Please God

    ¹Finally, brothers, we instructed you how to live in order to please God, as in fact you are living. Now we ask you and urge you in the Lord Jesus to do this more and more.

3. Learn to Love & Live God's Word.

2 Timothy 2:5:
⁵Similarly, if anyone competes as an athlete, he does not receive the victor's crown unless he competes according to the rules.

Psalm 119:105:

    ¹⁰⁵ Your word is a lamp to my feet
       and a light for my path.

4. Learn to be a person who works hard.

2 Timothy 2:6:
⁶The hardworking farmer should be the first to receive a share of the crops.

Proverbs 14:23:

    ²³ All hard work brings a profit,
       but mere talk leads only to poverty.

1 Corinthians 4:12-13
¹²We work hard with our own hands. When we are cursed, we bless; when we are persecuted, we endure it;¹³when we are slandered, we answer kindly. Up to this moment we have become the scum of the earth, the refuse of the world.

5. Learn How to be Wise & Understanding.

2 Timothy 2:7:
⁷Reflect on what I am saying, for the Lord will give you insight into all this.

Proverbs 3:13:

    ¹³ Blessed is the man who finds wisdom,
       the man who gains understanding,

6. Learn to be more at home with Christ.

John 15:4,5,6, 11
⁴Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. ⁵"I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. ⁶If anyone does not remain in me, he is like a branch that is thrown away and withers; such branches are picked up, thrown into the fire and burned.¹¹I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete.

Matthew 11:29:
²⁹Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.

John 15:4:
⁴Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.

Part III Faithfulness Makes Things Work

What is Faithfulness?

1. Choosing to keep my commitments.

Deuteronomy 7:9:
⁹ Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands.

2 Timothy 2:13:

    ¹³if we are faithless,
      he will remain faithful,
      for he cannot disown himself.

2. Choosing to do what's right

Deuteronomy 32:4:

    ⁴ He is the Rock, his works are perfect,
       and all his ways are just.
       A faithful God who does no wrong,
       upright and just is he.

Matthew 24:45-50

    ⁴⁵"Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time? ⁴⁶It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns. ⁴⁷I tell you the truth, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. ⁴⁸But suppose that servant is wicked and says to himself, 'My master is staying away a long time,' ⁴⁹and he then begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with drunkards. ⁵⁰The master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he is not aware of.

1 Peter 2:20:
²⁰But how is it to your credit if you receive a beating for doing wrong and endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God.

3. Choosing to Live According to God's Word.

Psalm 119:30:

    ³⁰ I have chosen the way of truth;
       I have set my heart on your laws.

John 14:23-24

    ²³Jesus replied, "If anyone loves me, he will obey my teaching. My Father will love him, and we will come to him and make our home with him. 24He who does not love me will not obey my teaching. These words you hear are not my own; they belong to the Father who sent me.

What Faithfulness Does

1. Produces a Path to peace in life.

Proverbs 13:17:

    ¹⁷ A wicked messenger falls into trouble,
       but a trustworthy envoy brings healing.

2. Allows us to be trustworthy people.

Luke 16:10-11:

    ¹⁰"Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. ¹¹So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?

3. Makes for a secure life now and forever.

Psalm 31:23:

    ²³ Love the LORD, all his saints!
       The LORD preserves the faithful,
       but the proud he pays back in full.

4. Brings protection from God. (This one is my favorite.)

Psalm 37:28:

    ²⁸ For the LORD loves the just
       and will not forsake his faithful ones.
       They will be protected forever,
       but the offspring of the wicked will be cut off;

5. Leads us to positive impact on others. (This is another good one.)

Proverbs 25:13:

    ¹³ Like the coolness of snow at harvest time
       is a trustworthy messenger to those who send him;
       he refreshes the spirit of his masters.

Psalm 101:6:

    ⁶ My eyes will be on the faithful in the land,
       that they may dwell with me;
       he whose walk is blameless
       will minister to me.

6. Creates honor from God and others.

Proverbs 3:3:

    ³ Let love and faithfulness never leave you;
       bind them around your neck,
       write them on the tablet of your heart.

How to Develop Faithfulness

1. Live connected to God's Spirit.

Galatians 5:22:

    ²²But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,

2. Encourage others and stay encouraged.

Hebrews 3:12-13:

    ¹²See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. ¹³But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.

3. Place value on being faithful.

Proverbs 28:20:

    ²⁰ A faithful man will be richly blessed,
       but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished.

Proverbs 20:6:

    ⁶ Many a man claims to have unfailing love,
       but a faithful man who can find?

There were a lot of funny anecdotes intermingled, but you'll have to come visit to hear them for yourself. Jim's sermons are always fresh, apply to your life right now, and target areas where we need to focus which is why I love hearing him speak. I think he is very gifted.

May God richly bless you with the reading of His word. Amen. Happy Weekend everyone!

Christmas Eve service at Bay Cities - Awesome!

By Joy A. Kennelly

Tonight's musical Christmas Eve service at Bay Cities Church was a lot fun - didn't realize my little church had so much soul and gospel flavah courtesy of Peter Rivera (Rare Earth fame) and James Gambrell rocking the house. And who could forget the Mackinga women and Mark Sullivan? Amazing talents - all!

It was a great time for the kids too. The men of the church created a 100 foot long sled ride for the kids to go whizzing down into 50,000 lbs of snow. That's 50 feet longer than the Skechers' MB Fireworks Christmas celebration the other day! And just think, we didn't have any sponsors to help pay for it! Pretty good, eh?

Just what the doctor ordered.

Merry Christmas everybody!

Jim Mackinga's last two messages to encourage your soul

By Joy A. Kennelly

My Pastor, Jim Mackinga, over at Bay Cities Community Church keeps preaching exactly what I need to hear, especially at this time of year. Since it's been such an encouragement to me, I thought I'd share the notes with you too because it is Sunday after all right?

So, without further ado, here's the notes from this Sunday and last Sunday's messages:

"Loneliness Is Real & Difficult"
"How God Wants Us to Deal With Pain"

Things that Cause Loneliness

1. When separated from those you love.

2 Timothy 1:2-4:

    ²To Timothy, my dear son:
      Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.
    ³I thank God, whom I serve, as my forefathers did, with a clear conscience, as night and day I constantly remember you in my prayers. ⁴Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy.

2. When disappointed by friends or family.

2 Timothy 4:15:
¹⁵You too should be on your guard against him, because he strongly opposed our message.

3. When commitment to Christ causes division.

Matthew 5:10-11:

    ¹⁰Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,
      for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

    ¹¹"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.

2 Timothy 4:14:

    ¹⁴Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm. The Lord will repay him for what he has done.

WHERE RELATIONAL FULFILLMENT IS FOUND

When we look back at our lives, we'll wish we would have loved more. Greatest lesson of loneliness is that we need God. The void can never be filled except by God.

1. In our relationship with God.

Genesis 1:27:

    ²⁷ So God created man in his own image,
       in the image of God he created him;
       male and female he created them.

Loneliness comes from our need for relational fulfillment. It's not hard to know God, just trust Him.

2 Corinthians 1:8:

    ⁸We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers, about the hardships we suffered in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired even of life.

2. In our relationship with others.

Gen. 2:18 The Lord God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make him a helper suitable for him." God designed us to enjoy fellowship with others.

Ephesians 6:2:
²"Honor your father and mother"—which is the first commandment with a promise—

Proverbs 18:24:

    ²⁴ A man of many companions may come to ruin,
       but there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother.

1 John 1:7:
⁷But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all^[a] sin.

3. Living life loving God and others.

Matthew 22:37-40:
³⁷Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'^{[a] 38}This is the first and greatest commandment. ³⁹And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'^{[b] 40}All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments."

When loneliness hits, refuse to run away or hide out. When you serve others you always feel better.

STEPS TO OVERCOMING LONELINESS

1. Build a growing relationship with God.

John 14:6-7:

    ⁶Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. ⁷If you really knew me, you would know^[a] my Father as well. From now on, you do know him and have seen him."

James 4:8a
^"8Come near to God and he will come near to you." A promise from God.

2. Conclude - You're forever safe with God.

Hebrews 13:5-6
⁵Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said,
   "Never will I leave you;
      never will I forsake you."^[a]

⁶So we say with confidence,
   "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.
      What can man do to me?"^[a]

^{3. Give your life away in love and service.}

Romans 12:11:
¹¹Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.

John 13:35:
³⁵By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

2 Timothy 4:17a
¹⁷But the Lord stood at my side and gave me strength, so that through me the message might be fully proclaimed...

Joshua 24:15:
¹⁵ But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD."

God has given us the freedom to decide who we will serve - self, God, others.

That was last week's message. Here's today's along the same theme...

OVERCOMING DISCOURAGEMENT
HOW GOD WANTS US TO DEAL WITH PAIN

What causes discouragement

1. When I experience lasting frustration.
2. When I experience regular criticism.
3. When I experience unfulfilled expectations
4. When I experience personal set-backs.
5. When I experience growing stress.
6. When I experience someone's death.
7. When I experience the loss of hope.
8. When I experience being hurt by others.

GOD'S SOLUTION TO DISCOURAGEMENT

1. Put your hope in God. (When in extreme pain, say "Jesus is my Lord.")
Psalm 42:5-6a

    ⁵ Why are you downcast, O my soul?
       Why so disturbed within me?
       Put your hope in God,
       for I will yet praise him,
       my Savior and ⁶ my God.
       My ^[a] soul is downcast within me;
       therefore I will remember you

Psalm 146:5:

    ⁵ "Blessed is he whose help is the God of Jacob,
       whose hope is in the LORD his God" - ask for help!

1 Timothy 6:17:

    ¹⁷Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.

1 Timothy 5:5:
⁵The widow who is really in need and left all alone puts her hope in God and continues night and day to pray and to ask God for help.

HOW TO KEEP MY HOPE IN GOD

1. Never forget my privileges in Christ.

Romans 8:1:

Life Through the Spirit

    ¹Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,^[a]

2 Corinthians 5:17:
¹⁷Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

Ephesians 2:13:
¹³But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near through the blood of Christ.

Philippians 4:7:
⁷And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Philippians 4:19:
¹⁹And my God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:39:
³⁹neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

2. Focus my life on what matters most.

Colossians 3:1-2

Rules for Holy Living

    ¹Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God.²Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.

Romans 12:2:
²Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

Philippians 4:8:

    ⁸Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

HOW TO KEEP MY HOPE IN GOD

1. Never forget my privileges in Christ.

2. Focus my life on what matters most.

3. Stay grateful for all God has done.

Acts 13:38:

    ³⁸"Therefore, my brothers, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you." Scars don't go away, but God gives us the freedom to really live in spite of them.

Ephesians 1:7:
⁷In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace

Psalm 103:12:

    ¹² as far as the east is from the west,
       so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

Isaiah 1:18a

    ¹⁸ "Come now, let us reason together,"
       says the LORD.
       "Though your sins are like scarlet,
       they shall be as white as snow;

Colossians 3:3:
³"For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God." It is finished and we are protected by God's love in our life.

Philippians 3:20:
²⁰But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ,

1 Peter 1:3-4

    ³Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, ⁴and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you,

Colossians 3:4:
⁴When Christ, who is your^[a] life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.

2 Peter 3:13:
¹³But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, the home of righteousness.

I hope this has encouraged you like it did me. You're all invited to join us next Saturday, December 15th at 4pm and 6pm for our adult choir and soloists performing in the Adult Christmas Musical "Celebrate the King" and a light dinner served in between both performances over at our Lomita campus.

Here's a map to our Bay Cities Community Church Lomita campus.

2043 Lomita Blvd.

Lomita CA 90717

(310) 326-1043

(Located on the NW Corner of Lomita and Eschelman.)

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

A.R.K. - A Random Act of Kindness - Evan Almighty

By Joy A. Kennelly

I have had the roughest week of my life. I have felt suicidal, alone, attacked, despised, loathed, and any other adjective you can think of. Ironically enough it was the result of the actions of someone who claimed to love me. If this is love, I want no part of it. Doesn't help to be pmsy on top of everything else. Damn hormones.

The worst part is that I don't understand why she chose this time of year, or now to deal with something that has bothered her since our childhood. We had such a wonderful Christmas together last year and now... When the conversation began, "You said such and such 10 years ago" I knew it wasn't good. Needless to say, it only got worse. Even with two Al-Anon meetings. I'll keep coming back though.

Now I know why people hate Christmas so much. I have never hated Christmas ever, but the last two years the pain of the loss of certain family relationships and now another one is enough to tip me over the edge. Fortunately, I have another family created by our common love for God who have stepped in to love me through this. I will forever be grateful for their kindness, prayers and support. I want to see Christmas like a child again like Jars of Clay sing.

I wasn't planning to blog about this, but tonight, have to.

Rather than go out to see a movie I decided to see what was on cable. I have never paid for a movie at home, but for some reason, chose to rent Evan Almighty because I needed and wanted to see a comedy. I saw the previews and trailers, but this movie's message was much bigger than anything I'd seen or expected.

I'm watching it half-dozing because I was up at 3am for an hour with a coughing fit, when my friend Adrienne calls to tell me they've recovered her license plates that were stolen the other day. To me that's a miracle. I've never seen the police work so quickly on anything like this before.

She's doing great. Thank you for praying for her. We've decided if they find the guy(s) who've harassed her, we're going to have to put a hit out. JUST KIDDING! Really we are. Killing is evil and wrong. No one no matter how awful they are deserves to die.

Her testimony makes me think I have some powerfully praying people on my subscriber list and at my churches. Thank you! That's what prompted me to share this story in hopes my despair and subsequent hope will encourage you right where you are now too. Also, that you will pray for me and my family now too. If you have been, thank you. God is moving in my family even though it's hard to see it just yet. But I have faith.

Anyway, Adrienne's call woke me up. I began watching the movie a little more closely then still not knowing why I chose it until it comes to the scene where the family leaves Evan Almighty aka Steve Carell (I just love him in anything he's in) because they think he's crazy and can't take it any more.

The family is all sitting at a food spot watching him being mocked on the news for deciding to build an ark when there's been a drought, when God aka Academy Award Winner, Morgan Freeman, appears to Lauren Graham aka Evan's wife when the kids are in the bathroom.

They get to talking because he's her server (I thought it was cute his nametage said Al Mighty.) He explains that when people pray for patience, God doesn't give people patience, He gives them situations to increase their patience. Then, he says, and I'm not quoting properly because I began sobbing knowing then that this was why I was watching that movie rather than something else, "When people pray that God will bring their family back together, he puts them in situations to draw them closer together."

I'm in one right now. A situation that is. What's so interesting is that I've had my Bible Study praying for reconciliation with my entire family because I've had estranged relationships with certain family members for years and years. Maybe this is how God is going to move.

I know I'm not the only one to ever experience this which is why I don't mind sharing my heart on this with you. You are not alone if you're suffering the loss of someone you love in your family and they're not dead, but might as well be to you. This is such a common occurrence I'm surprised to learn about more and more people experiencing similar situations. I'm so sorry if that's you too.

I know it's hard. You can pretend it doesn't matter and it doesn't hurt any other time of the year, but when the holidays hit, then it hits you smack in the face. The past two years it's hit me harder and harder. My birthday is December 31. Every Christmas is a reminder that another year has passed in more ways than one.

The longer I'm single, the more I realize how much I love and depend on my parents. When they're gone... who knows who will be family to me. I do have certain friends who are like family, but other than my best friend Kirsten who's known me for almost my entire life, a lot of these friendships are not as deep. This is when I hate being single the most.

That's why it hurts so much at Christmas. I have lost relationships with family including children I love and now it appears I might be losing more since I'm at odds with their mother. For reasons I don't really understand. That's what kills me. I love children. They love me too.

I love my family too and I'm not the same person I was 10 years ago. Now to get certain people to realize that. Even my Dad said it's time to let the past be the past. He and I have. And we have had HUGE disagreements and yet...

I chose to go watch the children's Christmas musical at Bay Cities today to compensate for longing to be near little kids during this Christmas season. I'm so glad I did. I bumped into my friend Donna I'd met at the women's retreat this past June and the little two-year old she takes care of. Sophie was the child's name just like my littlest niece. She was this little cute blondie dressed all in pink with cutie pie written on her top appropriately enough.

After a little bit I asked her if I could hold her on my lap and she was so cute, she said, "No, but maybe next time." Got to appreciate a child's honesty. Okay Sophie, I'll wait till next time. Thank you very much. I needed to smile today.

I then went to sit in the church and watch the show while they stayed in the atrium area to allow Sophie to move around while Donna watched the show projected on the big screen. I wanted to see it live. I'm glad I did.

The whole children's show was absolutely adorable. I don't know how many kids participated, but I do know about 30 adults were involved if that helps you figure out the ratio. Some of these kids are really talented singers and gifted actors too. It was great to see. Meaghan, the children's leader, is so talented and gifted at bringing out the best in people. She's a gift to our entire church.

The older kids are pretty well-behaved and recited their lines perfectly; then you see little ones who are four and younger and they just totally crack you up. They're shouting the words at inappropriate times, raising their shirts over their heads, playing around with the shepherd's cloth or halos on their heads, or just singing out confidently as if they were born to sing to a full packed house. Or just standing there scared to death.

Makes you realize some kids are born with the gift of performing from birth and others aren't! Some got up on stage and begin bawling which was also pretty funny. Especially when they're dressed up in a cow costume to be part of the manger scene with baby Jesus, Joseph and Mary. Then there's the adult who dressed up like Angel Gabriel complete with the fake breastplate and angel wings. Too fun.

It was just like watching something out of a Christopher Guest film but with a much younger cast. I knew it would lift my spirits. Being loved by my Dad when I dropped off their Christmas presents really helped too. He's not a hugger, but he knew I really needed to be loved and actually hugged me twice which is rare and special for him. I love him so much. He truly is my hero. We've gone through so much together and we are closer than ever as a result.

Sorry, I promised I wouldn't write about my family any more, but this has been killing me slowly, yet surely. I needed to share this, or I may never blog again. I've sat down off and on all week to write a blog that will entertain and instruct you because the rest of my life is great and school is interesting, but I just couldn't bring myself to pretend that nothing personally was wrong when it was so desperately. I get writers block when that happens. I have to be honest or I'm not true to who I am as a person.

I had a great conversation with my friend Amy today too. She was so comforting despite the personal struggles she's going through with her own family. They won't know whether the cancer her dad has is benign or malignant until after Christmas. She's cute. She says they're living quite happily in denial.

She had the honor of having one of her college papers selected as one of the top three the teacher is going to keep as an example of an excellent paper. Way to go Amy! She's getting a masters in counseling/therapy - I'm a great one for her to practice on.:)

She said she appreciated all your prayers because she could really feel the peace that surpasses all understanding in this situation. I'm so glad. Not for the denial, but that they've decided to live happy. I choose to live happy now too. It helps when you have friends in your life who love you even when you're a blubbering periodic mess. At least I still have them right? Periods that is. Friends too. TMI! I know. Sorry.

There are people who have difficulty sharing personal things and then there's me. HA! Welcome to my world. I'm listening to this very cool English Christian kid I randomly picked off myspace. Check out Joe Brooks. I especially like I Find The Light in You. He's a little cutie too. Way too young, but I can admire him can't I? Cougar on the prowl! LOL:)

I'm also digging Kari Jobe. Doesn't she have the sweetest voice? Maybe I am starting to feel like I will enjoy this Christmas after all. Maybe I'll go write some Christmas cards by the fireplace at Casa Del Mar tonight.

Or not. Maybe tomorrow.

Merry Christmas everyone. God bless you as you deal with the family issues you might be facing too. You are not alone.  We all have our struggles with family too. Just don't let it get you down. God loves you so much. I had to be reminded of that myself when I was at my lowest point. No matter what we've done, or what people say we are God loves us. Isn't that comforting?

But if it gets real bad like it did for me this week and you think you can't take it any more, please call and get help. You really aren't alone. There is help available. Your friends love you and if you feel you have no friends, call the following suicide prevention groups. I'm paraphrasing the copy, but just know bottom line, someone is there to talk to you if you're feeling like you can't take it any longer.

Hang in there. Give it another day. And reach out for help like I did. There's nothing shameful about asking for help. Cry out to Jesus like Third Day sings.

"The Befrienders, is a great site for those reading this blog internationally. This group works worldwide to provide emotional support and reduce suicide. They listen to people who are in distress. They don't judge, or tell you what to do - they listen.

The Suicide Prevention Center is for those who live in Los Angeles, CA.

A program of Didi Hirsch Community Mental Health Center

24 Hour Crisis Line
1.877.7.CRISIS
1.877.727.4747 or 310.391.1253

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is a 24-hour, toll-free suicide prevention service available to anyone in suicidal crisis. If you need help, please dial:

1-800-273-TALK (8255)

You will be routed to the closest possible crisis center in your area. With over 120 crisis centers across the country, their mission is to provide immediate assistance to anyone seeking mental health services. Call for yourself, or someone you care about. Your call is free and confidential."

If you're living a life affected by someone else's drinking, visit an Al-Anon group and receive comfort  knowing you're not alone and learn new ways of living. If you're the drinker and want to change, visit an Alcoholics Anonymous group. If you click on either link, it will lead you to where there's a meeting near you.

And, if you have courage and a desire to plug into a family that is like none other, then cross the threshold of a church near you.I've made the best friends of my life at church and am living proof that God's love is alive and well in Hermosa Beach, CA.

You're invited to join me at Bay Cities Community Church either in Redondo Beach or Lomita, CA tomorrow if you're in the South Bay. All the directions are in the church link. I might hit the 8am again in RB just to enjoy the intimacy of a smaller service, but there are services at 9:30 and 11:00am too. Or find a church near you.

You'll be blessed. I guarantee it. God will meet you right where you are, especially during this Christmas season. Here's Jars of Clay to share Love Came Down at Christmas to take us out.

God bless you.  God loves you and so do I.

India help, Los Feliz Village Holiday Festival, The Liquid Muse

By Joy A. Kennelly

Well that was sure funny. I just called United Airlines to find out if my free ticket I received after being bumped allows me to fly to Kauai and just spent 10 minutes with a guy in India just trying to get him to spell it properly and learn where it is in Hawaii.

I was very patient, but finally asked him if he was in India to which he didn't answer. Then I asked to speak to someone else and he said, please give me more time I'll get it. I told him I've given him 10 minutes just to learn how to spell the place and I'll call back.

Totally bummed my ticket doesn't allow me to fly to Hawaii or Alaska. When I called back I asked the girl which place I could fly to get closer and she said LA or San Diego. That made me laugh too because I live in LA. Now to check out South Beach or somewhere in the states. I'm so bummed. I was really looking forward to a free trip to Hawaii!

My parents just returned from there and had a great time. Oh well. I've enjoyed the chocolate covered macadamian nuts they brought back... There's always next year. I just have to use this ticket by 1/3/08. Where to go? Where to go?

What I don't want to do is end up like the woman in the skit at Bay Cities this past Sunday who is single and all excited about going out with her friends, but then they flake so she's sitting home alone talking to her mom. Now don't get me wrong. I love my mom very much, but that just ain't my idea of fun you know.

The whole sermon was entitled "Loneliness Is Real & Difficult - How God Wants Us to Deal With Pain." I'll share more of it later, but right now I want to share a funny embarrassing moment that happened while my friends and I were hanging out up at the Los Feliz Village Holiday Festival (which was very hip and cool and fun by the way. More about that too.)

My friend and her family came because she's totally always up for fun stuff even if last minute. My other friend came spur of the moment too and walked around wearing flip flops freezing his feet off all night as a result. At least I had a jacket to spare that looked unisex.

There was a magician performing tricks for the kids out in front of Starbucks which really entertained them. I wanted to make sure we caught a ride on the double-decker bus and asked them all to come over to wait with me a little ahead of time. We were getting bored standing around so Kirsten asked Winston if he'd mind taking her son back across the street and we'd call them when it came.

I then totally put my foot in my mouth and said, "Run across like you're an illegal alien." When I looked around after saying such a stupid thing we were totally surrounded by Mexicans. My bad. I don't know where I come up with some of this stuff. Fortunately, the young teen-agers got the joke and laughed along with me. I don't think the rest of them spoke English.:)

Maybe it was all the trips down to San Diego for Christmas and Thanksgiving where you see all those yellow signs of people running across the border on the freeway that stuck in my subconscious all these years. I don't know. I do know that this came out during a Groundlings sketch too!

Three of my classmates were given a theme and then had to create a movie poster out of the theme. They were asked to freeze and then the announcer, me, had to turn and make up a movie title on the spot based on their pose.

Well, the group I had to describe was two of my dark haired classmates acting menacing towards the blonde girl who was cowering. I turned around saw them and said to the audience, "Ladies and Gentlemen, you're in for a very special treat with this movie- "Two Mexicans attacking the blonde girl."  Everyone erupted into laughter because it was so off-the-wall and the darker haired people weren't even Mexican. Plus, I think it shocked them a little that I would say such a thing. I know it did me.

Where is this fear or humor about Mexicans coming from? I should be careful, Carlos Mencia might try to steal my material. HA HA

I guess growing up near the beach with only blonde, tanned surfers has had its effect. I hope you realize I'm only teasing and mean no harm. It was very funny at the time, but maybe you had to be there. I apologize if anyone was/is offended. It truly was funny...:)

Back to the festival. So we caught the double-decker bus and when we came to the next stop where Mariachi's were playing (I'm telling you, Hollywood is so much more multi-cultural! LOL) we waited until all the hundreds of people (ok, I may be exaggerating just a bit, but it really seemed like it at the time) got off the top deck to allow us to jump upstairs.

It was really fun riding up there in the cold and then when we got off at the next stop we caught some great shopping. Kirsten bought all kinds of cute, one-of-a-kind unique necklaces as gifts while Winston and I hit the Rosetta Stone Gallery where my friend, Denise, was working. I believe she's the gallery/store owner and chair of the Los Feliz group that put on this whole event. She has some gorgeous Asian pieces among other amazing furniture.

Just to tease Winston I made him pose near some of the Asian work because of his heritage. He has such a great sense of humor he totally went along with it. I think someone more uptight might not have enjoyed my sense of humor, but he's just as wacky as me so it works. We were totally taking the funniest pictures all night long. I'll have to upload them to my myspace page soon.

We all posed near a blow-up Santa on a motorcycle. Then we went to a really cool store called White Trash Charms which had the best decorated Christmas tree set against a very cool assemblage of Andy Warholish art with their store name emblazoned across the soup cans like his famous ones.

They were blaring rockin' Christmas dance music and it was a lot of fun. The hair salon, Transcends, where the blow-up Santa was had the cutest little Boston Terrier named Joey outside entertaining us with stupid dog tricks.

Here's a blurb from citysearch about that place: "For more than two decades Academy Award Nominees, Emmy Nominees, pop divas, producers, directors and internationally known celebrities utter the name of Bob Geevar with a sense of awe when it comes to hair." Who knew we were visiting hair royalty? They had great music and snacky poos too.

Los Feliz is mainly singles so I doubt some of them really were expecting children to visit which was fine. It was so obvious when we finally came upon the puppeteer. He TOTALLY cracked me up because he's playing this extremely depressing music, with a cigarette dangling from his mouth half smoked, while he 'raises" a seemingly dead puppet from the dead. NOT kid friendly, but Kirsten's kids were fascinated.

I made the mistake of saying out loud - I must have your picture smoking because I thought the irony was so funny, but he didn't like the joke and threw it away before I got my camera ready. Just imagine a tall, thin 30ish guy with greasy hair (at least I think so, or else I'm just making it up to make the story sound better) smoking a cigarette wearing a long winter coat standing over a small, thin table playing with a marionette to dreadfully depressing non-Christmasy music. Get the picture? This is the funniest part - billed as an activity for kids! Too funny. He was very good at it, but it was totally inappropriate.

Otherwise, everything was great. Kirsten said all the vendors were very trusting, even taking checks, and very nice to work with. Also very creative gifts. Everyone had great snacks and hot drinks throughout to warm you up. The places that were open were busy and the activities were fun. I think the free Santa pictures were a big hit as was the antique trolley dashing through the streets.

I bumped into one of my former filmmakers which was fun too. I didn't realize it had been so long ago, but he said 2001 was when he participated. We may end up working together which I hope because he's extremely talented if I remember correctly. I think all my filmmakers were to be honest.

In any case, we had a good time that night. I came away with lots of fun ideas for next year too. Great job Los Feliz Business Improvement District! I wonder if we have a similar group in Hermosa? If not, we could use one. But that's another blog at another time.

I'm tired. More details on Jim Mackinga's sermon - which was awesome as usual - later. I will say this though. I don't know why, but all of a sudden we are collecting the most attractive male and female singles I've seen in quite awhile. The 9:30am church service is packed! I've never, ever seen it that crowded before and it's awesome!

I'm going to have start blogging about how fun the 8:00am service is to get more people to come to that one next time. That service really is fun because of it being a smaller, more intimate crowd Jim just lets loose and is crazy funny sometimes. He even went a little over time this week because he got so carried away telling so many stories.

I really miss not being able to sing, but I'm still not 100%. I sound like I've been smoking for years.  Everyone thinks I am so much younger than I am when I have my regular voice because it's so much higher. Oh well, it's fun to be different.

On another note, my friend, Natalie aka The Liquid Muse's house party was fun Sunday too. She just sold her book of non-alcoholic cocktails for pregnant women called Pregitini's (sp? Natalie?) and was celebrating.

She has a real fun site with lots of interesting things for those who imbibe. Check it out and tell her I sent you.

Okay, I really must go. Hope you come again real soon.

Sharefest, Groundlings, bibi davidson, Gali Rotstein, Bay Cities Community Church, Snow Goose Global Thanksgiving

By Joy A. Kennelly

This has been one packed weekend. I love times like this because I am very social and love being around lots of new people. I also like my time alone, but I needed to be around people to help deal with what I'm working through.

Hit the Sharefest Fundraiser Friday night which was a lot of fun. I was expecting to see more single guys there, but it was lots of single women and married couples. The fun part was seeing people I grew up with down here that I haven't seen in years and years because I was living in Hollywood and Santa Monica.

Some had changed and some hadn't changed at all. I also saw some people I wasn't expecting which was very surprising, but nice nonetheless. Maybe a little painful in light of the circumstances, but I dealt with it. I also enjoyed finally meeting Steve Napolitano face-to-face because I'd been contacting him regarding Hermosa Beach's crime for so long. Very nice, funny guy. Is he single? Just teasing.

I have been so cooped up working and going to classes so much I really haven't been out socializing like I normally do and man I was in rare form that night. I had my friends laughing the entire time we were greeting because I kept cutting jokes and making fun the whole time. When I'm on fire, I'm on fire. Can't help it.

My Dad has a great sense of humor and taught us to always see the humor in life. Plus, it makes you feel good to laugh right? I really needed to that night. It was fun to get dressed up too. I'm very casual and rarely dress up for work since I work from home and live a block from the beach, but love going out all decked out. Even curled my hair! Texas style if you get my lift...

I encourage everyone to come to next year's fundraiser for Sharefest because they have the best auction items - trips to exotic locations like Bali (two people bid $6,500 and each won!), amazing packages of products, great Christmas gifts, lots of stuff I was so impressed to see.

I've gone to a lot of silent auctions and this was the most extensive group of products I've seen in a long time - Laker tickets, some famous basketball player signed some sports shoes, and on and on. Very cool. Once I remember how to upload pix I'll put them in a special folder for you to see. I'm so impressed with the guys who created this entire organization - what dynamos! The entire South Bay really owes them a huge debt of gratitude for all their non-profit ventures to help the community.

Lots of people came out which was fun. I could have sworn this one guy came who looked like he was straight out of The Sopranos, only in a bright blue fedora and suit. Very handsome, distinguished gentleman who definitely wanted to be noticed. You were definitely noticed! :) There was a great mix of people. The place was packed. What a nice venue too.

The Marriott has really changed since I used to go there to dance in college with my friend Sheri. One time I wore my long African dress just because I felt like kicking back and not worrying about what guys thought. We had more fun that evening! She and I greeted people as they came in like we were the hotel greeters and then danced all night long with the guys we'd been joking around with. One guy told Sheri I looked like a dove on the dance floor. Fun memory. I love dancing. How about you?

As Sharefest volunteers we helped until the program started and then were able to join the large crowd for a nice dinner.  More auctioning went on and then the keynote speaker, Karen Ledebur began to speak. 

Here's a little blurb from her bio:

"Kären also served as Associate Director for Corporate Planning and Development for the Beach Cities Health District in Redondo Beach. Her work there transformed the Health District from a behind-the-scenes grant making organization to the dynamic public health entity it is today."

I thought she'd speak about change from more of a business perspective, but instead she shared her personal story of survival and how God had touched her life through the hardships. She used pennies as an example of the need for us to make change in our lives. It was interesting and very encouraging, but went a little long. Just being honest.

I think when you're "on" for the public (like we had been as greeters,) it's very tiring and around 9:30pm Deb and I cut out. She had volunteered with me and it was great fun to have one of my best friends to hang out with. Stephanie, my new friend from Bible Study, was there too and she's so stylish! Hardly recognize her when I see her not wearing her scrubs because that's such a unisex and plain garb.

Anyway, it was a really fun evening and exactly what I needed.

Saturday hit my final Groundlings class which was also fun, but a little sad because it was going to be the last time I saw some of these people since they're jamming on to the next workshop right now whereas I'm going to wait till January.

It's ok though because I think when you work with new people in an improv setting you learn new ways of acting with people that makes you stronger in that type work. I may be wrong, but it just seems like this change will be good. Plus, a chance to make new friends!

We all went out afterwards for drinks and apps to celebrate completing the class. I haven't been drinking in a few months and the martini I had went straight to my head immediately. Today I've been fighting a head-ache all day which makes me feel like the buzz just isn't worth it in the long run. Now maybe if I was back in my floozy days I might do it more, but now...

After a bit, dashed off to my client, bibi davidson's art opening which I believe was a huge success. So many of my friends showed up (even my former client, Domiziano Arcangeli, made a rare Santa Monica appearance) and bibi's studio was constantly packed with people. I think her space more so than some of the other artists...I was very happy to see that because I'd been doing so much publicity and inviting people it made it all worthwhile.

I'm hoping some papers I invited might have popped in too since I had a nice email from an editor indicating he liked the information I'd been sending out. We'll see.

I'm going to do a photo spread  and wrap up of that even in my other professional blog - thejoywriterpr which I started on wordpress. Again, once I figure out how to upload the pix. I'm hoping it's just like riding a bike and I'll remember right away. They are a lot of fun. bibi is such a character. I think she and her art are great.

Then Glen, my new bud, and I popped over to Bergamot Station to check out all the openings over there. Of course, James Gray Gallery had the best party as always. This one was a fundraiser for Artists for Human Rights. It was nice to see the Gallery Director and say hello. Also spoke for a bit to Artist, Stephen Bennett.

Both Glen and I could swear he was painting over the photographs he took of indigenous people, but Stephen says he paints from memory and off the pic, not on the pic. It's almost too perfect though, but whatever. I don't really care either way. It's very cool any way he creates the images - check out his link and you'll see what I'm talking about.

Then quickly ran over to Tarryn Teresa's Gallery. The more I understand about the art world, the more I'm impressed with Tarryn and Claressinka for doing what they're doing with this very cool gallery space. They're both so young and beautiful sometimes it's hard to believe that they, and Elizabeth, their counter-part, actually run this wonderful gallery. Kudos girlfriends! Keep up the good work on bringing interesting art to a younger, hip generation like you do so well.

Lastly we hit Lois Lambert's Gallery since Gali Rotstein, my other artist client, will be holding an exhibit there in January 2008. She's part of the Group '08 show and has four really cool pieces of art that will be on display. You'll have to save January 12 on your calendar and plan to join us ok? She's going to be huge, mark my words. And I'm not just saying that. Big time art people agree with me. I just have good taste what can I say? :)

Back to LLG. It was a little uncomfortable to walk in and see someone who I'd stopped being friends with years back, but we agreed to act as if the other didn't exist and I walked past without incident. It was only a matter of time before we saw each other again since she was the one who introduced me to the whole art world years back and she's the one who originally brought me to Bergamot. Oh well, thanks for the education, right? LOL

Life's too short to hold grudges, but to those of you who do, God bless you richly. I don't live like that, but if you must - hope it's working for you. LOL I guess I've just had too much therapy and healing to allow petty things hold me back any more.

I will get through the pettiness that's going on right now too, but have to admit that I was crying all morning over some of it. It just seemed like it was too much to bear any more, but my good friends I called loved me through it. My new pedicure helped too. Plus, I was able to go to a really cool Thanksgiving celebration today with Glen and his roomie Phil which really lifted my spirits.

I think it was just Jim's message on rejection really got to me. I don't cry very easily, but I just sat there crying for most of his message. However, I'm in a total different head space now. I'm glad I have good people in my life. I hope you do too. Again, life's too short to waste it on mean people.

All day was healing actually. Jim's sermon was great as always. Here's the notes since you might not have made it this morning. May it bless you as much as it blessed me - I'll tell you more about this amazing feast celebrating peace and world harmony called Snow Goose after the message.

The Answer to Rejection

"How God Wants us to Deal With Pain"

Why Rejection is so painful
(The lie - that other's opinions can determine our value.)

1. It's a form of relational murder. (Murder is the ultimate ending of a relationship. Hate is prolonged suicide.)

Matthew 5:21-23:

Murder

    ²¹"You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder,^[a] and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' ²²But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother^[b]will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, 'Raca,^[c]' is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell.

2. It's an attack on our God given value. (People feel if they can remove your value then they can disrespect you, but God says you have value and you matter.)

1 John 3:2:
²Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when he appears,^[a]we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.

Romans 8:17:
¹⁷Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory.

1 John 4:10:
¹⁰This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for^[a] our sins.

Wisdom in dealing with rejection - know where true acceptance is found.

1. It's not based on my performance.

Titus 3:5 & 7
⁵he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, ⁷so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.

2. It's not based on the approval of others.

Proverbs 29:25:

    ²⁵ Fear of man will prove to be a snare,
       but whoever trusts in the LORD is kept safe.

Psalm 56:11:

    ¹¹ in God I trust; I will not be afraid.
       What can man do to me?

Matthew 10:28:
²⁸Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell.

3. It is based on my relationship to Christ.

Romans 8:1:

Life Through the Spirit

    ¹Therefore, there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus,^[a]

Romans 5:8:
⁸But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

⁹Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God's wrath through him! ¹⁰For if, when we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! ¹¹Not only is this so, but we also rejoice in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

Since God Accepts Me - the truth is

1. It doesn't matter what others think of me.

Romans 8:31:

    ³¹What, then, shall we say in response to this? If God is for us, who can be against us?

2. He has assigned to me eternal value.

Romans 8:32:
³²He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?

3. No one can cause God to reject me.

Romans 8:35-37:
³⁵Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword? ³⁶As it is written:
   "For your sake we face death all day long;
      we are considered as sheep to be slaughtered."^{[a] 37}No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.

4. Nothing I do will cause God to reject me.

Romans 8:38-39:
³⁸For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons,^[a] neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, ³⁹neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Steps in dealing with rejection

1. Never let approval of others control you.

Galatians 6:10:
¹⁰Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

Galatians 1:10:

    ¹⁰Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ.

2. Grow in your relationship with Jesus Christ.

Psalm 9:10:

    ¹⁰ Those who know your name will trust in you,
       for you, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek you.

3. Graciously accept others as God requires.

Romans 15:7:

    ⁷Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.

End note - People who don't fear rejection have a greater capacity to love.

Amen and amen. The special music by Steve Jordan was especially nice today too. He really does have a great voice. Sorry about being petty last week SJ. We're family so... Okay, that's the sermon from today. Hope you enjoyed reading it and learned something. I know I did. Really touched my heart today.

Another event that touched my heart today was the special Thanksgiving feast called Snow Goose my friend Glen invited me to attend today. 

Here's info from the web site:

Our Mission To promote a celebration of peace, harmony and abundance through a festive atmosphere that embraces the beauty and solidarity among all people.

Our Goal To implement one thousand locations with a thousand people at each site by 2012 and one million locations by 2026, moving our collective human-being-consciousness into another frequency of dreaming, thinking, and doing. Remember, we were all indigenous people at one time and wild and free and directly connected to the lifeforce of Creation. We can do this. We really can!

Our Vision In 1992 Victor Villaseñor was giving a talk in a bookstore packed full of people in Portland, Oregon on his latest book Rain of Gold, when a local native asked him what was he going to do about Columbus.

Thanksgiving Ceremony We’re asking each of you, to take a personal pledge that where ever you are, who ever you’re with, with or without a candle – at sunset, on Thanksgiving, you will take a moment to send peace and harmony through out the whole world.

Starting Your Own It's easy. We don't want to reinvent the wheel. So contact your local church, your local grammar school, high school, and/or college. Get your local Rotarians and/or Soroptimists involved. Any service group that's inclusive and comes from the heart. Get together and have an old-fashion potluck on the Sunday before Thanksgiving.

Now imagine around 1,000 people spreading love and good will around the world at dusk tonight holding candles after hearing a great rendition of Amazing Grace. What a great way to spend today! That's what we did! Can't you just see it in your mind? All races, all ages, all socioeconomic reflected today.

We arrived at this huge estate owned by the host, Author Victor Villasenor, around 2pm, enjoyed a great turkey potluck dinner and then heard a great Latin Orchestra perform and watched people salsa dance for two hours before this ceremony. I love days like this that are totally unique and community-oriented. Lots of great music, great food, great dancing, and good times.

Plus, peace and good will to one and all. So, now I'm going to watch the American Music Awards so you have a good one y'all. Today can't get much better! Lovin' the music! One of these years I want to attend the show!

Good night and God bless.

What to do with the extra hour this morning - Bay Cities Community Church welcomes you!

By Joy A. Kennelly

I know, I know. After that last post, is this girl really a Christian? Yes, it's true. Maybe a little crasser than some of the people you'll run into, but I just had to vent. I will try to clean it up though because I really don't need to stoop to their level of baseness, right?

If I offended anyone, I'm sorry. If I caused someone to look at themselves closer, then I'm glad. If I raised awareness on how tacky it really is, I'm thrilled! Time will tell.

So, like I announced at the top of the post, if you're awake, don't know what to do with yourself and interested in seeing what Bay Cities Community Church is all about, then pop on by! We'd love to have you.

There are two Redondo Beach services at 400 S. Broadway. 8am - which I'm going to hit since I'm awake and can't sleep now. Or 9:30am which is a little more crowded so park on Torrance Blvd. off PCH near Wells Fargo and walk south till you hit Broadway and Pearl.

Or, if you're a late sleeper and live closer to PV, hit the new Lomita campus located at 2043 Lomita at 11am - all those services are taught by Jim Mackinga and the 9:30am service is taught by Ben Meyers.

Pastor Jim Mackinga always preaches on something very pertinent to today's world and his new series is dealing with hardship (or something like that - can't find my notes, sorry.) He's funny, he's deep, he's Biblically based, and a huge bear of man with a heart for the community. 

Just this past weekend I believe he took a bunch of guys to San Diego to do some clean up after the fires (at least that was the plan if they were approved and told where to go.) I'm sure he'll tell us today if it happened.

You know what I like best about him as a man? He's all man. He wants men to be men and women to be women and although it's sexist as all get out, I love it! I want to be female and allow men to be men. I like relaxing on Sundays and feeling like every thing's going to be ok because my Pastor is on guard for me.

Hard to believe, but it's true. I may be a ball buster in my business, but I am very feminine in my private life. I want a man to take care of me. Oh, that's so old-fashioned!!!! But I can't help it. I love men's strength!

Enough on that tangent though.

Jim's beautiful wife, Sandy, leads an awesome worship time with great music. There's quite a few Christmas concerts planned -children's choirs and special music from some of the amazing talent in our group too! The drama team always finds something to make you laugh, but also think. There's plenty of activities for little to older kids too.

Come on by! The coffee and donuts are waiting for you! (There's bananas and water too, but...:)

At long last, Gali's gallery debut(s)! Moving, moving, moving

By Joy A. Kennelly

I'm very happy to announce that Gali Rotstein of the Ken and Gali Rotstein's has been accepted to not one, but five gallerys! Of course, she can't accept all five offers, but it was so nice to see her work validated by so many fine gallery directors.

Each one was unique in what they were known for and specialized in which made it extremely difficult to narrow the choice down. Especially when she liked the people so much. However, at this point in her art career it was important to select a path that will lead her in the ultimate direction she wants to have.

So! I'm happy to announce that you will finally be able to see Gali's work for yourself up close and personal at the infamous Bergamot Station's very own world renowned Lois Lambert Gallery whose director, Lois Lambert herself, is known internationally as an authority on functional art. The other name for the gallery is Gallery of Functional Art or GFA. It's the perfect place for Gali to debut because her artwork fits so well in this genre.

Mark your calendars now because Gali's art debut and grand art opening with GFA as part of Group '08 is Saturday, January 12, 2008 and will run through March 9, 2008.  She's thrilled to be part of the prestigious Bergamot Station and Lois Lambert's Gallery as her Los Angeles debut for Requiem for a Housewife.

The other announcement I am able to finally make is that Sara Cannon, curator of the equally prestigious Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery, went to visit Gali's home studio awhile back, saw her work and said, (a direct quote) "I really like her exuberance and talent....I would like to show her when I get the right show." Isn't that wonderful news too? Sara's gallery is strictly for exhibition which is why there is no conflict with GFA. Oh, the things I'm learning about the art world.

There are some really cool galleries in town and Gali was accepted by three others, which out of courtesy I will keep nameless until the time is right. Just know they have excellent taste in art and I may be sharing a new artist's work with them soon which I'm sure they'll love just as much. Then I'll be talking them up too!

In the meantime let's just bask in the light of Gali's glow as a successful new emerging LA artist, shall we? Like I said about Esther, you think your friends are talented, but worry you're biased when they're your friends. That's why it's nice to have outside confirmation of what you believe in your heart to be true of their talent.

I knew when I visited Gali the first night we met to begin working together and a piece of her art made me cry because it was so stunning, I was looking at true talent. Now to go conquer the rest of the world with her art!

She's really great to work with because she comes up with great ideas and contacts which help make my job easier. Same with Audrey and her Back to College for A Day seminar series. However, they know I work hard with what and who I know, and how I do it too!:)

Audrey's a real go-getter too and I believe that all her hard work is going to pay off! I hope you will consider attending at least one lecture on Saturday, October 27, 2007 and enjoy the intellectual stimulation! I've heard keeping your brain moving helps fight off Alzheimer's which is a good thing.

Otherwise, on a personal front, I'm moving this weekend. Never in all my years of renting apartments have I EVER met such an apt nazi as the lady I met today. You would have thought I was trying to buy the building with all the documentation she requested. NEVER, EVER, EVER have I had a building manager request two years of tax returns, my bank deposits for the past year, proof of payment, $200 deposit etc, etc, you would have thought I had to give my firstborn son the way she was going at it.

Needless to say, I didn't end up applying there after all. I had jumped through some of the hoops, but give me a frickin' break lady. Some of this is none of your damn business. Six months records should be sufficient and if it's not, then I'm not meant to be there. Can you imagine what she would have been like as a landlord? Maybe she's had bad experiences with other beach rentals, but I've moved A LOT in my past and I've NEVER met someone like her.

I point blank asked her if the owner of the building would rather have the apartment sit empty for a month while she tried to find someone else who would give her all the data she was requesting to which she became indignant. I doubt anyone else has ever challenged her like I did, but I hate record keeping and it was a big pain in the tukis just to get together everything I got for her to begin with.

Oh well, I'm in a new Bible Study presented by Crown Financial  which was offered through King's Harbor Church  which will hopefully get that area of my business and life under control. Tonight was cool because Pastor Henry lead the group and I've never met him before. Very nice, caring man. Good people in the group too.

One of my friends from Bay Cities was so excited to hear I was taking this class because it so changed her life so many years back. Another friend of mine had taken it too and everyone speaks so highly of the way you learn and grow through doing it. I can't wait!

I had a pretty rough summer with my back injury and hardly working as a result, but God was faithful and provided for me. Now to get my life back on track in more ways than one. Speaking of churches, I'm singing this Sunday at the 9:30am and 11:00am service at Bay Cities Community Church's Lomita Campus located at  2043 Lomita Blvd, Lomita, CA 90717.

This is a rare Southern California appearance of me singing so you better get there early or the crowds will be overwhelming. JUST KIDDING! I don't think many people even know I sing to be honest. I haven't sung in a while, but I'm looking forward to it, albeit a little nervous. Would love to see your smiling faces in the audience if you feel so inspired to drive on down and check out the Lomita campus.

This particular church building has such a cool story (which to make sure is accurate you'll have to verify with Pastor Jim.) Apparently a few years back Jim was approached by a missions organization who saw his vision to reach the people of the South Bay and felt lead to donate their entire property of 3.5 acres including the buildings and everything to Bay Cities as a gift!

Can you imagine the value of that property and just receiving it as a gift? Well, they did! Apparently the church needed some work which men from the church helped rebuild. What a labor of love. Now it's so beautiful you feel like you're in a Beverly Hills home it's so pretty  - beautiful tile work, modern fixtures, gorgeous, spacious kitchen, and a great community space.

The grounds are beautiful too with lots of grass for children who attend the little school to play on. I was blown away as he was telling me the story. Now I have to be honest, my heart belongs to the Redondo Beach church because that's where my sister had her wedding reception. I have fond memories of that time. Plus, a lot of the friends I've made attend those services at the Redondo Beach location at the cute women's community center (located at 400 S. Broadway, Redondo Beach, CA 90277.) which we call church.

However, I've decided that it's important to be a servant and do what the pastor's wife asks of you when I'm not really singing that often. Plus, the beauty part is that now I'm able to sleep in a little longer because we have a later call time. God knew I'm going to be exhausted from moving (where is to be determined, but come hell or high water I plan to leave this current place on Sunday to keep my commitment to leave and allow the new renters to move in in a timely fashion.)

They're so eager to move here they had mail sent here already and also came by to measure the space earlier this week - back off babes! Now that I'm moving stuff into the living room to make it easier to move, my place seems spacious! My Dad was very sweet and came to help me break down a big piece of furniture to make it easier to transport today. I love my Dad. He's a good man. I have good neighbors too. Two have offered to help me move which is so kind.

I'm going to miss all my fun neighbors, but am hopeful they will still come to my parties and invite me to theirs, or at least say hi once in a while.  I had a good run here, but it's time to do something different to allow me to save money.

I'm beginning to hate to move. First for me. Normally I enjoy the excitement, but now... Enough! Apparently they did a study once of people who've traveled a lot as children and it's very common to move a lot, have multiple jobs and lots of variety in their lives. However now, maybe God is slowing me down or something.

So, all in all, a good day overall. I'm thrilled for Gali and the potential for her career. She's worked very hard for a very long time and deserves this acceptance. Better buy her art now because pretty soon you're not going to be able to afford it - mark my words!

And with that, good night.

Today's sermon was awesome! Last night was fun too!

By Joy A. Kennelly

Just got back from hearing a great sermon by my very funny Pastor, Jim Mackinga, over at Bay Cities Community Church in Redondo Beach. He kept asking the church to give him affirmations that we were with him so finally I yelled out "Amen Brother" and everyone laughed. I felt a little embarrassed afterwards, but sometimes I just do stuff without thinking. Still working on that.

In any case, here's the sermon notes in case you're wondering why I thought it was so good ok? Jim's been preaching on Why People Drift From God and this was part 3 of his series "Staying Close to God."

Here's the wrap-up of the 2 previous sermon notes in case you missed going and are curious to know what he shared:

How to Know I'm Drifting

1. My interest in God's word decreases.
2. My prayer life loses it's passion.
3. I no longer go to church
4. We stop investing in God's kingdom
5. We stop talking to others about Jesus
6. We begin to compromise our priorities
7. We no longer feel close to God

The Consequences of Drifting

1. Our conscience becomes less effective
2. Our life stops being faithful
3. Our level of love, joy & peace declines
4. Our prayers lose their effectiveness
5. We ask for God's discipline
6. We can wreck our life and our faith
7. We will feel shame when we meet Jesus
8. We can lose our rewards in heaven.

Now for this morning's message:

What Causes us to drift

1. Forgetting that I'm in a spiritual battle.

Galatians 5:17:
¹⁷For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want.

Romans 7:18:
¹⁸I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature.^[a] For I have the desire to do what is good, but I cannot carry it out.

2. Failing to remember who I really am.

Who we really are

A. My life is willing to serve Christ

2 Corinthians 5:15:
¹⁵And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.

B. My life is changed

2 Corinthians 5:17:
¹⁷Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come!

C. My life now represents God.

2 Corinthians 5:20:
²⁰We are therefore Christ's ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ's behalf: Be reconciled to God.

D. My life brings his message to the world.

2 Corinthians 5:21:
²¹God made him who had no sin to be sin^[a] for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.

WHAT CAUSES US TO DRIFT

3. Potential negative influences of others.

1 Corinthians 15:33:
³³Do not be misled: "Bad company corrupts good character." This one was a great point! Jim said the reason we need to stay away from bad company is that we can't handle it! Don't buy the lie you can hang with bad people and not be affected! Protect yourself with wisdom.

Helped me to realize that some of the guys I was hanging out with in Hollywood when I lived up there weren't always the best influences for me. Now that I'm way down here in the South Bay I don't see them at all or very infrequently and as a result my life is more Godly.

Just last night I was talking to one after coming home from the fun night out celebrating one of my neighbor's birthdays and he was totally talking sexual to me. I told him this booty was not for sale and then he asked if he could just lease it. Totally cracked me up, but sorry, no. I'm wanting now to wait for my husband to enjoy sex because it's too painful the other way. What a novel concept, eh?

Back to the message.

4. Loving the world's ways (is another way we are caused to drift away from God)

1 John 2:15:

Do Not Love the World

    ¹⁵Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

5. Giving into small temptations (Jim said we DO need to sweat the small stuff because most people make small bad choices that slip into bigger issues - oh how true is this one!)

Hebrews 3:13:
¹³But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin's deceitfulness.

6. Doubting that God really cares for me (when troubles hit us.)

Deuteronomy 10:12-13
Fear the LORD

    ¹² And now, O Israel, what does the LORD your God ask of you but to fear the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him, to serve the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul,¹³ and to observe the LORD's commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?

7. Insisting on having God on my terms.

1 John 5:21:

    ²¹Dear children, keep yourselves from idols.

Jim said this is when people pick and choose when and what they worship and not honoring God.

Then he closed the sermon with this little story that really touched my heart in light of my involvement in the art world right now. I'm going to horribly paraphrase so bear with me.

There was an older man and a son who had acquired an amazing art collection that was worth millions of dollars. The son went away to fight in the military and soon after the father received notice that his only son had been killed.

He was mourning the loss of his son on Christmas day when there was a knock at the door. When he opened it there was a soldier standing there who had been saved when the son died helping him. He had with him a crude painting he'd created of the son's likeness which the father promptly hung on the mantle moving major artwork that was worth a lot more money.

He communicated with the soldier and then sat the rest of that Christmas morning staring up at the portrait of his beloved son. Years passed and the father died. Everyone in the art world was excited to see about his art collection so when the auction house announced they were selling the work the place was packed with eager buyers.

The auctioneer held up the first painting which was the portrait of the man's son and said, "What am I bid? $100?" The room became indignant with the crowd's impatience to get on to the "real" art. "We didn't come for that, we want to see the father's collection," someone yelled from the audience.

The auctioneer calmly replied, "We need to have someone buy this before I can go on. This was the father's wishes in his will." Finally a man held up his paddle, "I'll buy it for $50 because I knew the son and would like to have that painting." The crowd was relieved that the auction could then continue.

However, the auctioneer said, "Okay, the auction is over." The crowd was shocked. Why do you say that? What's going on? They murmured. The auctioneer explained, "Whoever wants his Son, gains the whole collection." 

I just thought that was such a beautiful analogy of God's love for us. He wants us to desire his Son and then He will give us the whole world! So, with that, I'll let you enjoy the rest of your Sunday.

I have a lot to do to get ready for. Take care!

9 Things You Simply Must Do to Succeed in Love and Life and other thoughts...

By Joy A. Kennelly

Sometimes you just need a good friend to tell it like it is and remind you that God is in control, not you. I keep saying I'm turning my life over to His will and His leading in my life, but deep down inside I keep thinking that means I'll still get to play in Hollywood with all my friends I've known for years and years.

Not so. I was reminded tonight by my good friend that when one door closes, another opens. Right now it seems like God is closing the door for me to do more personal publicity for actors and it's very sad to me. I LOVE that kind of work. I love helping people brand themselves and create business and opportunities from that identity.

I LOVE IT! It makes me very happy and I think I'm good at it. Others do too, but they can't afford my services (at least the ones I'm meeting. Maybe I need to meet more better ones. Ya think?)

For whatever reason though, it's just not happening right now and I have to accept that fact as a fact and stop living in denial. Maybe I'll go back to doing it down the road, but for now... Not happening. I'm beginning to realize I don't really know what God wants for my life anymore.

That's why my friend telling me she knows I have a gift for publicity and that maybe God wants to use my talents in representing the South Bay is a little overwhelming, but also encouraging. Maybe this is the right direction to take.

I have to admit though. When I think about living AND working down here I feel like I'm going to be bored out of my skull! What is going on at night other than bars and happy hours? Will someone please tell me? Lots of stuff to do on the weekends and during the day, but nights? WHAT IS THERE TO DO - ESPECIALLY IF YOU'RE SINGLE???

Maybe I need to start planning some parties and get some events going or something. I don't know, but I do know that if I am going to stay down here I need to entertain myself. I can't deal with the thought that the highlight of my night is going to be meeting a friend of mine down at Barnes & Nobles and seeing what the latest mags are. I'll shrivel up and die! Not that there's anything wrong with it, but not all the time!

No wonder people drink so much down here. LOL. They're bored! I'm bored! Oh well. I need to stop ragging on my little home town and start doing something to make it more fun. I'm sure there's other people like me who would love to do stuff at night too.

I can only hit Java Man so often too. Love that place, but have to say, the customer service with some of the guys working there has gotten kind of bad. I don't know why. I'm not tipping any different than I have in the past. I am ordering the same stuff. I don't know. Just an fyi, mr. owner guy. Especially the Sunday closing crew. What's up their butt?

I was so bored I threw an impromptu night BBQ on Tuesday and all nine people I invited showed up. That was with two hours notice. I think they're bored too. This community needs something pulling the singles and those without children of the town together outside of bars. Just a thought.

I'm tired. Just felt like blogging. It's been awhile because I've been busy and other stuff taking up my time, but I miss sharing. Maybe it's a little too personal, but I always hope that perhaps other people will relate to what I've written and will be comforted or encouraged to know they're not alone feeling the way they do.

One of the things the former shrink from the Women of Faith conference I attended last weekend said is, "When we reveal, then we heal." (This was a very fun conference, but kind of Christian lite so you had to be there which is why I'm not covering it. Check out the link for more details. It's good, just not what I expected. Laughed a lot though!)

Back to my original thought - "When we reveal, we heal." I know, trite phrase, but it was also echoed in this book I bought that weekend by Christian clinical psychologist, Dr. Henry Cloud, entitled 9 Things You Simply Must Do to Succeed in Love and Life.

I kept trying to read bits and pieces of the book over the breaks because it had such an intriguing title and he's such a great author on numerous topics. I almost didn't get it because I still have a gift card from the women's retreat I attended and was going to get it later, but then I read his counseling of an overweight patient about how to effectively lose weight - one pound at a time, one week at a time (more details in the book - read it! It's really great. This is my 2nd time reading it now.) which was a concept I hadn't really grasped because I'm the "I want it now and if I can't have it right now why bother" type person.

However, that idea really resonated with me and since reading the book I've joined a gym again. Time to hit the ground running so to speak. Maybe I'll eat more salads now too. Maybe Weight Watchers is next? Who knows? :)

Back to the book though, I digress. What Dr. Cloud explains is that there are 9 certain traits and characteristics of successful people that he was able to analyze after meeting so many "de ja vu" people.
He calls them that because he kept meeting people who reminded him of other people and he thought maybe he'd met them before because there were so many similarities, but then he realized these people all addressed life in the same successful  way. That's the genesis of the book. I highly, highly recommend it. It's easy to read, lots of examples with real people not celebrities which would make you think you can't attain that life, and very informative.

There's a little study guide that goes along with it and if you bought the two together at the conference I was attending you got a discount - I bought both.:) Now I'm starting to read the daily step by step guide to changing your life in 30 days. It's very scriptural so if that's not your thing don't bother. But if you are interested in hearing God's perspective on you and your dreams, then get it. I'm enjoying reading it too.

Speaking of goal setting... A few of my friends and I are going to start the Goal Gals back up again real soon. (It's something I created back in the mid-90's which my friend Cynthia named when she was part of it where I get groups of people together to accomplish goals in three month increments.)

I'm excited about starting again because I always get so much support in groups like this and accomplish so much more than I would by myself. It's a good time to start too because pretty soon I'm going to be very busy again. I'm very excited that my producer/writer/mentor friend, Marcia, is going to help me create my adoption doc because I'm just way too close to be objective. Should be interesting...at least I hope!

I'm also looking forward to taking Chris Howard's seminar again next weekend. He takes everything that's taught on goal setting and just kicks it up to a whole other level. I was so inspired last time I attended can't wait to attend this one. I think you can still sign up for free. Check it out. If you're a conference attender like I am!:)

I'm still loving working with my artist client, Gali Rotstein. She's creating some really cool new art pieces and is busy in the studio. I'm busy pitching her to more and more galleries. We have some pending, but until things are confirmed I can't really discuss them here. Just know as soon as we know, you will know. There's also a very cool women's magazine (one of my favorites actually) interested in her story too and if I get her that hit, it will be major! Say a prayer!:)

Otherwise, wrapped the car gig last week (although they're not done, but I was - HA HA) and have been busy catching up on things this week as a result. I don't know how people work 9am - 5pm. I really don't. It's so machine like. But the money's nice I guess. However, according to my Henry Cloud book, it's more important to do something that makes your heart sing.

So, I'm off to read more and learn what's going to make my heart sing! Have a good one all.

Don't be a stranger.

Enjoy the read.

LA Inc, South Bay, Ralphs Grocery Store, Pavilions and the proposed Business tax hike

By Joy A. Kennelly

My stomach's upset from something I ate last night and I can't sleep so here I am. It's pretty bad when you get sick on the food you cook yourself! LOL It doesn't always happen, but sometimes it does. I think I need to learn how long you can keep uncooked meat in the fridge before it goes bad. Any chefs care to leave a comment?

Hopefully my girlfriends who came over last night aren't facing queasy stomachs too. I'm so bad. Oh well. Live and learn right? It could have been the rich chocolate cake I ate with whipped cream that Kirsten, my girlfriend, brought over too so I'll try to comfort myself with that thought. Or maybe the Martinelli's that Deborah brought over - that always affects my digestion for some odd reason too. Oy Vey!

In any case, just wanted to check in and say hi. I'm so thrilled that linking to that little address listing of Bay Cities Community Church has brought their real Web site to the forefront of Google!!! Now if any of you are interested in learning more about what my church is all about, or where it's located, check out the link ok? Would love to have you join me sometime. Seriously!

Jim Mackinga and his wife Sandy are the most loving, special people. Their whole family is really wonderful actually. Everyone I've met at this church is so friendly, open-minded and great. I just love being part of this community. Say hi to me, since I'd love to meet you as I don't know too many other people down here yet though. Who knows, if you walk through the door, maybe you'll see people you know already!

Did I tell you all that I had a meeting with the Director of Media Relations, Robin,  from LA Inc aka Los Angeles Convention & Visitors Bureau to discuss future work together? We're in the negotiating stages so we'll see, but I'm hopeful this will work out well since they've always appreciated my work to date. It's all a blur on what I've shared here and what I haven't. Excuse me if I'm repeating myself.

I've been writing for LA Inc since 2002 and it's really helped me learn how to present the city of Los Angeles as a whole to the travel media. I've written copy for their Web site, pitched media for special events, and written numerous press releases highlighting all aspects of the city. I love it since it keeps me in the loop for the entire city and I enjoy doing the work. Plus, I'm good at it, if I do say so myself.:)

I'm planning to develop the travel aspect of my business as it applies to the South Bay since I have this experience, knowledge and connections gained from my relationship with LA Inc. Why not? Should be good.

Being away form the South Bay for so long I see it through a tourist's eyes right now. Sometimes that's good. Sometimes that bad. However, there's always room to grow in either direction so I'm excited to see where this new experience will take me and my hometown as a whole.

My Beach Writer group is excited about participating in my new endeavor which will be great because they're all very accomplished writers too. More to be revealed, but just know it's going to be good once it gets going.

I had a great meeting with Gary, my ad/marketing bud, yesterday too and we made some real progress on the concept. I'm excited to see where this all takes us since it has such great potential for positive outcomes for many people and businesses and the community as a whole. God is moving!

Just think - my public relations, Gary's design, and my Beach writers writing -- the skies the limit! I've been very fortunate to create a group of quality professionals (see my links to people I do business with  on the left of this column - those are my colleagues) who support my business in a variety of  ways which is great when I'm working with bigger clients. Now to get some interns to work with me and I'm all set.

So, for those of you still trying to decide what to do tomorrow (or should I say today since it's 4:30am in the morning Sunday - oy vey - someone give me a tranquilizer or pump my stomach...:) Ok, where was I? Oh yeah, what to do on Sunday after you've gone to church? Here's a few blurbs from the Easy Reader on a couple of fun events that only happen in the South Bay and I quote:

"Surfers Walk of Fame inductions
Eight surfing figures will be inducted into the Surfers Walk of Fame today at 4 p.m. Sunday at the base of the city pier. Inducted at the fifth annual Surfers Walk ceremony will be honorary members John “Whitney” Guild, Alf Lewis, Mike Stevenson and Donald Takayama, and pioneer members Toby Erlinger, Bev Morgan, Patrick O’Connor and Rosemarie Reimers-Rice."

The induction sounds cute and since you're down here, why don't you go to dinner, enjoy yourself and then hurry over to the beach to claim your "seat" for the huge summer Sunset Concert that happens at 6pm? Here's more details, again from the Easy Reader:

"It’s The Shondells, dude!
Hermosa Beach’s second Sunset Concert of the summer offers up the near-edible “Crimson and Clover” and “Sweet Cherry Wine” Tommy James & The Shondells. 6 p.m. on the sand, just south of the pier, and best get there early. 310-318-0280."

Now I'm not really into oldies music, but I am curious to see who is so I'll pop by for a bit. I just have this real curiosity about the people and the customs down here since some of it is new to me. I like to see what demographic these kinds of events appeal to too because then it helps me with my marketing.

If you know who you're trying to reach and what they like, then you have a better time of appealing to them. Just a little PR tip. Duh, right? But so many people just blindly create things without understanding the market and they fail as a result. That's why I'm trying to take as many meetings with influential people of the South Bay as possible so I understand where people's heads are at. We'll see.

I'm excited, more good meetings to happen soon. I'll keep you posted once there's a little more concrete plans in place. Hope you'll join me. I look forward to getting to know my South Bay neighbors better.

Ok, now that I've blogged, maybe I can go back to sleep. Have a good morning. Maybe I'll see you at the Pier events today! Just think, maybe an older, more mature, non-drunk population shows up for these events changing the demographic of the Hermosa Beach pier for once - what a novel concept, eh?

Would be nice to walk around there and not have to avoid the barf left staining the concrete from some stupid person the night before. ICKY! Since when is our Hermosa Beach Pier the place for 20 year olds to come and get wasted? Time to grow up people! 

Go to Alcoholics Anonymous, go to Rehab, go to church, go somewhere, but get your drinking under control if you're barfing in public and ruining a public place for others. YUCK. That's what I'm talking about people. The first step is accepting the fact you have a problem. If you need me to be the one to make you stop and look at yourself, then so be it.

I just hope you don't kill someone first driving home drunk before you wake up and smell the coffee. Yes Devin, everyone is responsible for their own drinking, but when it begins to affect the public and create the possibility for drunk driving, then that person's responsibility has obviously gone out the window and it's time someone speaks up. Plus, who wants to date or be married to an alcoholic? I feel like I'm doing an intervention for my city! Okay, enough of my soapbox. I need an Al Anon meeting.

I'll leave you with this cute story since it's so South Bay to me. Remember that very sweet slow boy I told you about who works at Ralphs? Well, last night I popped in for some things I needed for my dinner with the girls and he was in my check-out line.

As I was standing there waiting for the cashier to ring up the guy in front of me, all of sudden, quite loudly, I hear him say to me, "YOU LOOK BEAUTIFUL IN PINK TONIGHT." I was really embarrassed since he said it so loudly that people were turning to me and smiling, but I thought he was so cute and sincere I responded thank you and pretended like that happens to me all the time.

Then he tells me loudly again that his birthday is December 1 and do I know how quickly 8 months goes? VERY QUICKLY, very quickly. I agreed with him and made a mental note that I want to give him a birthday card on his birthday since it obviously means a great deal to him. He seemed content that I'd acknowledged him and was nice to him and didn't speak much until he wished me a great evening as he passed me my bags.

If you ever get a chance to visit the Ralphs down on Sepulveda just up from Pier Avenue, do. I think that guy is the sweetest person he makes me shop there because I enjoy my visits so much since he's so innocent and pure in all his communications.

I remember reading in some mag about another similar slow guy at another grocery store who was challenged by his store manager to make a difference as part of a store-wide initiative to bring in new business. This directive was given to the entire store, but this little guy took it to heart.

He began writing little positive sayings on slips of paper and putting each slip into people's grocery bags as he bagged their groceries. Pretty soon people began to stand in his line to receive the sayings they were so popular. He totally changed the m.o. of people visiting that store and business flourished ten-fold as a result of his small action. They began talking to each other in line and were happier.

That's how my little Ralphs guy makes me feel when I shop there. He's always courteous, interested in how I'm doing, and obviously cares about doing a good job. I think it's great that Roger Bacon of Ralphs has hired him. I hope he keeps him around for a long time. I hope that business flourishes just like that store with the other slow guy does.

Maybe Roger should implement the sayings too? Just think, maybe then he could afford the raise in business taxes that's being proposed - LOL. Does anyone else find that funny that he's so vocal about the measure? I could see some of the smaller stores in town being upset, but a major grocery store - give me a break!

Yes, it's a bummer to have to pay more taxes, but since when does $168 a year really pay for how much business you generate Roger? Where's your sense of civic duty?  Santa Monica charges small business owners twice that amount! Why shouldn't we bring our taxes current?

Going back to my original point of customer service being key, who knows what a different community this might be if that little effort to personalize your store's service was made? I don't know. Not saying it has to be done, but hey, if it worked at another similar store, then why not give it a try? You never know.

I do know that one of the main reasons I like shopping at the Pavilions down the street even though their prices are higher is because every single time I've ever asked for help finding something, the person working there who I've asked has personally walked me over to the section for my item and told me to have a nice day. That type of customer service is unheard of up in Hollywood. I love it!

It's nice to live in a community where you see familiar faces, people are sincere in their greetings to you when they see you, and there's a real sense of community tangible in the air. It's hard to describe to people who don't live here, but trust me, it's here. That's why I moved back and that's why I enjoy it.

On another note... I'm sure there's plenty of bars that have a lot at stake in this measure to increase the business tax too. Wouldn't it be nice if they actually gave back to the community rather than just take? Just a thought from an objective public relations specialist viewpoint.

What a great publicity angle to say, "Yes, we're making a shitload of money (excuse my French as my friends always say) from this city and as a result, we've decided to do the right thing and give back to the community by being willing to pay more taxes since we obviously use a lot more of the cities resources in police, trash, and other business." What a great story that would be to the greater Los Angeles area!

I can see it now - the Los Angeles Business Journal, The LA Times, CNBC and other news outlets picking up this story. Very interesting thought, eh? Maybe they'll read my blog and find it interesting that a city that has had the same business tax for years and years is having such great difficulty even putting a measure on the ballot for the general public to vote on. What are they afraid of?

I doubt the Beach Reporter finds it a story though seeing as part of the service the Manhattan Beach Chamber offers is an article in that paper for membership. Kind makes it difficult to keep your editorial perspective clean when your advertising revenue is generated by so many of the businesses you're writing about right? So many small papers will offer you a story if you buy an ad (not saying The Beach Reporter does it though) and I find that practice despicable from a journalist standpoint.

If someone has to buy their way into a paper to have a story written what does that say about the integrity of the story? It happens all the time with small papers though. The ad department begins to control the editorial which makes the balanced ethical reporting of an issue go out the window.

That's why when people want to pay me as a PR person strictly based on whether or not I can guarantee they'll get media coverage I refuse. If the media is doing their job, then they won't be bought and I won't influence them to write a story about my client unless there's a real news story there. That's why I'm real particular about who I work with and very selective on when I send out press releases.

If I can't help you or I don't think you're newsworthy, I won't take your money. I just turned away a short filmmaker the other day who was just oozing money because I didn't think his film would get picked up as news until he got it into a festival. Now him as a filmmaker, he was very interesting and I could see him personally getting coverage now, but a short film- not so much. I used to produce film festivals for years and know this world quite well.

Plus, I bounce things off my other colleague, Marcia, who also has done lots of film publicity and she agreed with me. We always collaborate. Same with my friends Kim Koury and Adrienne Dorsey. Great people to collaborate with.

I have found it interesting that every press release I've ever sent The Beach Reporter which has been picked up by other news sources numerous times, hasn't been picked up by that paper. Makes me wonder if my letter to the editor will see the light of day since I'm not a chamber member, nor have I bought an ad to promote my services since that would defeat what my business is all about! Maybe since my letterhead has my Santa Monica mailing address there's a bias in that regards too? Who knows...LOL

Ok, back to the proposed Hermosa Beach Business Tax Increase issue at hand.

What's up with the "private" meeting on July 31? I don't get it.  Makes you wonder what the city council is thinking doesn't it? What's going on behind those closed doors? Aren't they supposed to be the ones who help the city to take care of itself? Why wouldn't this measure not be a no-brainer - raising the current tax of $168/year to something that's commensurate with your business revenue?

I'm confused and just asking that's all. I'm not into politics, but thought that's why people put these people in office-- to make the city a better place to live, not keep things status quo. Think of the money that would bring in the city! Pretty amazing things could be done then.

That's one of the things that drive me crazy about the South Bay (small town politics!), but there's a lot of good things down here too which I'd rather focus on and move forward with. Stay tuned.  But don't worry. I'm not running for office any time soon. Have you ever watched the city council meetings on TV? BORING!!!!!! It's like watching paint dry. However, the city characters do liven it up a bit when they speak their piece.

So, now I really better try to go back to sleep because I want to hit the 9:30am service of Bay Cities and get chuched. And no, I didn't misspell that word - that's a spillover from my days at my gospel church.

See ya!

Entourage, The Blog/Zine Network, Frontline Writing, Bay Cities Church, Trilogy Spa

By Joy A. Kennelly

Entourage was great tonight! Totally cracks me up. Can you imagine hating someone so much and then being stuck working with them over and over again? I can't! This plot line is great - can't wait for next week.The drug scene was a little excessive though. I wouldn't doubt this type BS goes on in Hollywood, but I've been very fortunate never to be a part of it. Not my scene. At all.

Moving right along.

Met with my Blog/Zine Network group today which was interesting as usual. We had more new people join us (for some reason I'm having deja vu. Did I write this last month? Oy vey!) Learned some new blogging tips which is always helpful. That's why I started this particular blog with my "byline." We'll see what happens doing that. Just curious.

David Tandet of Frontline Writing had some interesting Web sites for us to review and utilize in the future. I would tell you, but then I'd have to shoot you since you haven't joined the group yet! Just kidding. But seriously, if you want to learn about blogging, join us. I'm going to start inviting more guest speakers to come and we'll all learn how to grow this type "business" together!

Bay Cities Community Church was good as always. Sometimes music just hits my spirit and today I was tearing up again. I can just see myself on stage crying occasionally if I do sing with the worship team, but hey, I'm an emotional person and music can hit your emotions. So! We shall see!

Enjoyed hitting Trilogy Spa Hermosa Beach today after church for a bit. Was supposed to have a friend join me, but she was upset I switched day spas on her last minute so she bailed. I felt really, really bad at first, but after enjoying the rain shower and the floating water bed experience, I was feeling no pain. I really like their mango coconut sugar scrub - I smell so yummy! Don'tcha wish you were here with me right now? I smell good enough to eat! LOL

I was feeling pretty good about myself after that treat. I guess it showed because men were real attentive to me at the smog place. I must buy more dresses! It's nice to be feminine, especially since it's been so hot.

Now to get up early and take care of business. Last night some of the drunk idiots either visiting people here, or who live here were talking loudly and trying to climb our back wall at 3am. The bastards. I almost yelled, but when I opened the window wider I think they got the hint and shut up. OY VEY! More drunken idiots in the South Bay. Oh well.

I know I'd hear drunks a lot in certain parts of Hollywood too, but I've just never lived near this type behavior before - lucky I guess. At least people haven't been doing their stupid "Woo Hoo" calls since I told one of my neighbors that whoever did that at 2 and 3am were asses. Word travels fast I guess. It's not Georgia's Rules - it's Joy's Rules. JUST KIDDING!

I just find it highly disrespectful to be loud and obnoxious when people living here have small children. Maybe those "Woo Hoo" people have moved out or something. Good.

I'll get off my soapbox now.

Life is good.

I love my place, love my pool, love my friends down here, and love the beauty of the South Bay.

I just love being able to drive down PCH and look over to see the ocean whenever I'm at a crossroads of streets. There's just something majestic about an endless ocean that goes off into the horizon.

And with that, I'll bid you good night.

Sleep tight. God bless.

Another short hiatus from writing, but this time for fun.

I've been working so hard I've decided to take a little break at a retreat to renew spiritually, emotionally, and physically (back still acting up when I drive too much and carry anything too big - but it's far better than it was!)

I wish you all a very fun weekend too and will catch up with you all later.

Have a good one.

The second service & fun potluck lunch I visited today

After getting that resolved dashed off to OCF to catch the sermon over there. Brandon was teaching from Luke 12 n How/Where Do You Rank Yourself? as part of his series on It Takes A Church to Raise a Christian.

His study questions were  Where do I really find my identity, my security and my hope for the future? His answer (in brief): Trying to find your identity apart from God is foolishness.
  ⁴"I tell you, my friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more. ¹⁶And he told them this parable: "The ground of a certain rich man produced a good crop. ¹⁷He thought to himself, 'What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.'

    ¹⁸"Then he said, 'This is what I'll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. ¹⁹And I'll say to myself, "You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry." '

    ²⁰"But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?'

    ²¹"This is how it will be with anyone who stores up things for himself but is not rich toward God."

Where we find our identity, security, and hope doesn't just affect us, it significantly impacts those around us.

Do Not Worry

    ²²Then Jesus said to his disciples: "Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat; or about your body, what you will wear. ²³Life is more than food, and the body more than clothes. ²⁴Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! ²⁵Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life^[b]? ²⁶Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?

    ²⁷"Consider how the lilies grow. They do not labor or spin. Yet I tell you, not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. ²⁸If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! ²⁹And do not set your heart on what you will eat or drink; do not worry about it. ³⁰For the pagan world runs after all such things, and your Father knows that you need them. ³¹But seek his kingdom, and these things will be given to you as well.

    ³²"Do not be afraid, little flock, for your Father has been pleased to give you the kingdom. ³³Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. ³⁴For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

It was nice to have that reminder. There's going to be a fun Super Bowl potluck party at the church on the high definition broadcast on the big screen in the sanctuary Sunday February 4 2:30pm to the end of the game with Kickoff time at 3:25pm in case you're looking for a fun place to watch with other sports fanatics.

I'm not much into the game, but I love all the commercials and the half-time show - who can forget Janet Jackson's breast? I wonder if there will be another 5 minute delay this year? Too funny.

Now you'd think I'd be done right? NO! My mom called and I invited her to join me at the Redeemer Pres potluck at the pastor's home this afternoon and suprisingly, she said yes. We met at the house and then drove over there together. Dad was busy doing something else.

What a fun time! Pastor John has this amazing new $700 grill donated by a member of the church and he was cooking tons of chicken for fajitas, while the rest of the women were busy creating other goodies. We had humus, cucumbers, pita bread, spanikopita light (home made no less!), all kinds of mexican fixings and then homemade flan, you name it we had it. What an amazing spread.

The food was great, but the fellowship was what really made it special. Turns out one of the ladies who attends this church has known my Dad since elementary school and has known my mom all my life. She remembered me from when I was 2 or 3. What a cool experience to meet someone who knew me AND my dad since childhood. I'll have to remember to ask her to tell me stories about Dad as a kid.

Mom loved being there and had tears in her eyes when she was telling Cindy, the pastor's wife, good-bye and that she really sees their church growing. I do too. These people have such a hospitable spirit and love for their congregation it just oozes out of them. I'm so glad to have found them. I feel like I've finally found the spiritual covering I've been looking for for a long time.

I feel safe sharing deep feelings and also respect the wisdom they impart just because they've been Christians for so long and God's spirit is so evident in their lives. They're open, warm, loving, and I think God is going to really use their CO graciousness to his Glory at this church if this open house luncheon is any indication.

Pastor John cracks me up since he's such a footbal fanatic. As soon as everyone was fed and people were just sitting around chatting, he had the football game on and was enjoying the sport amidst all the commotion. I just don't get men and football, but that's ok. That's what makes them so wonderfully male.

We stayed a lot longer than we expected because I got into a conversation with the secretary of the church and learned she used to be a radio producer for KFSG, the old Christian radio station. She made us all laugh when she shared how she and her husband used to support a fellow producer's Christian heavy metal late night radio show. She was Yvie Metal and her husband was Brother John Bon Jovi.

Apparently, they even went to Knotts Berry Farm to do personal appearances - what a crack-up. She totally understood the irony because she's so not heavy metal, but would wear a dark jacket and glasses to fit the image. People used to get so excited to call in and get to actually speak to Yvie Metal. I'm laughing now as I write this because if you saw her and saw how feminine and refined she is you would think it's funny too.

I had a really nice time as did Mom. She was surprised how long we stayed too, but I told her I'd stayed that long the week before too! Fellowship is just fun when you have God in common. After a bit of time at home trying to get a little more organized, dashed off to my friend Natalie's bday party which I'll tell you about in my next post.

 

Today was busy, but fun filled with lots of variety

Today was a great day - full, and great! Didn't sleep too well - woke up at 1am and again at 6:30am before falling back asleep, but had a quiet time with God before realizing I needed to dash to hit the 9:30am service of Bay Cities Community Church. This was the church I was invited to by the Sandra, the attorney I had met this past Monday. I'm still gathering support from various churches to start a multi-church singles ministry and want to meet as many pastors as I can.

I was late, but so was my new friend Deborah who was meeting me so we sat together in the very back. This church is very social with lots of Bible Studies and fun activities for all types of people which is cool. I'm beginning to realize that each church reflects the personality of the pastor - this pastor is very funny and very gregarious. He preaches more topically with lots of funny stories rather than speaking from one chapter which is a little distracting, but also very interesting.

Here's the notes from today's message in case you missed going to church this morning and/or are curious what that style is like. I believe he covered the first 8 in the previous message. The topic was "Defining God's Values for My Life" part 2 What God Wants Us To Value

1. Fully depending on God in My Life.

    a) He Becomes my Top Priority.
Ex. 20:3 "You shall have no other gods before me."

    b) We Love Him Above All Things
Ex 20:4 "You shall not make for yourself an idol"

    c) We Honor Him At All Times
Ex. 20:7 "You shall not misuse the name of the Lord your God."

2. Making Time in My Life For God.
Ex. 20:8 "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy."

3. Always treating my parents with respect.
Ex. 20:12  "Honor Your Father and Mother."

4. Never intentionally Bring harm to others.
Ex. 20:13 "You shall not murder."

5. Living in a way that is sexually pure.
Ex. 20:14 "You shall not commit adultery."

6. Not stealing anything from others
Ex. 20:15 "You shall not steal."

7. Watching my words at all times.
Ex. 20:16 "You shall not give false testimony against your neighbor."

8. Refusing to live with envy in my heart.
Ex. 20:17 "You shall not covet your neighbor's house."

9. Choosing a life of personal integrity.

Psalm 15

A psalm of David.

    ¹ LORD, who may dwell in your sanctuary?
       Who may live on your holy hill?

    ² He whose walk is blameless
       and who does what is righteous,
       who speaks the truth from his heart

    ³ and has no slander on his tongue,
       who does his neighbor no wrong
       and casts no slur on his fellowman,

    ⁴ who despises a vile man
       but honors those who fear the LORD,
       who keeps his oath
       even when it hurts,

   

⁵ who lends his money without usury

       and does not accept a bribe against the innocent.
       He who does these things
       will never be shaken.

Proverbs 11:3:

    ³ The integrity of the upright guides them,
       but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.

Proverbs 13:6:

    ⁶ Righteousness guards the man of integrity,
       but wickedness overthrows the sinner.

    Psalm 119:1        

 Blessed are they whose ways are blameless,  who walk according to the law of the LORD.

Titus 2:7-8:
⁷In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness ⁸and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.

Benefits of a life of integrity

1) You don't need to remember what's been said.

2) You can be trusted by others.

3) You can offer relational security to others.

4) You live with acceptance from God.

Proverbs 10:9:

    ⁹ The man of integrity walks securely,
       but he who takes crooked paths will be found out.

Psalm 41:12:

    ¹² In my integrity you uphold me
       and set me in your presence forever.

10. Investing My life in loving others.

1 Peter 1:22:

    ²²Now that you have purified yourselves by obeying the truth so that you have sincere love for your brothers, love one another deeply, from the heart.

What This Love Involves

1) This love means loving as Jesus loved.

John 13:34:

    ³⁴"A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.

2) This love is what shows our love for God.

John 13:35:
³⁵By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."

3) This love starts with a committed love for God.

Mark 12:28-30The Greatest Commandment

    ²⁸One of the teachers of the law came and heard them debating. Noticing that Jesus had given them a good answer, he asked him, "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?"

    ²⁹"The most important one," answered Jesus, "is this: 'Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one.^{[a] 30}Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.'

4) This love is to be invested in others.

Mark 12:31:
³¹The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'^[a]There is no commandment greater than these."

Ephesians 4:2:
²Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love.

Hebrews 10:24:
²⁴And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.

1 Peter 3:8 Suffering for Doing Good

    ⁸Finally, all of you, live in harmony with one another; be sympathetic, love as brothers, be compassionate and humble.

As you can see it really jumps all over the Bible, but I hope you enjoyed it. I liked the man, but I think I need a little less ADD version of my sermon. Too much, too quickly, with little time to absorb it. Maybe I'm just getting old. I don't know!

I did meet Sandra afterwards and she is so fun. Deborah and I are going to participate in their single women's Bible Study. I like it because it's not every week because I can't commit to a weekly thing because of all the red carpet events I generally have to go to at night. However, this Bible Study seems a little more compatible with my lifestyle and time schedule. Plus, there's single women! YEAH! I need people I can relate to.

I'm breaking today up because I did so much and have too much to share in one post.

You're never going to believe what happened to me today

I couldn't wait to get home to share with those who've been reading about my struggles to begin a singles ministry how amazing God is. I feel so loved by Him it's an incredible high. Just when life was feeling at the lowest it could be over the weekend (making me feel suicidal which I haven't been in years), God just stepped in and said, here, have some hope that you're on the right track and that I'm in this effort of yours and that you're loved and heard.

Okay, sit back because to me this is truly God in action! Sorry if you're turned off by all the God talk, but read on anyway ok? I promise to share about my experiences at the Penelope Cruz LA Confidential Golden Globes party, and my time tonight with my blogging network, and my wonderful, loving birthday party too ok? Tell you what, I'll start with my birthday party on Friday and that way you can continue reading through till tonight only if you feel like it ok?

First off, on Friday night a girlfriend kind of burst my bubble about a guy who has been in my life for a long time which made me turn into a blithering mess right before my party. I know she didn't mean to do it, but sometimes the truth hurts. If a man is one way... it's hard for them to change, especially when they're thinking with another part of their anatomy than with their heads or hearts. Plus, they may the best intentions in the world and really mean it, but actions speak louder than words. However, he has the capacity, now to see if the maturity is there...

In any case, I think I'm a little pmsy, was hugely sleep deprived, was feeling older, feeling very hurt and ignored by my church, and I have just returned from seeing my son over Christmas which I didn't realize affected me so much- all this combined to cause me to have a little mini-breakdown which I must have needed. I am so much better today it's like night and day. Again, God is good.

My girlfriend persuaded me to pull myself together and come out to the 90's dance club where I was hosting birthday party number two which I'm glad I did. When I got there I was greeted with such love and care by my good friend Patrizia and her friend Lara, it really helped me feel better. Then my good friends Shana and Rick, and John and one of his friends showed up and the party was started!

Patrizia, and I believe Lara, are trained dancers, as is Shana, and once the music got too good to sit still, we were all on the dance floor having a blast. It took me a while to get in the mood, but the music and my friends just lifted my spirits and pretty soon I couldn't help myself but forget everything and just dance, dance, dance.

It totally helped that there was this crazy, fun guy who loved to dance too who joined us and was choreographing the funnest dance steps that Lara actually was able to imitate in perfect sync. It was like having your own private dance show going on. We must have danced non-stop for a good two hours. It was exactly what I needed! I love to dance when the music is good and this DJ is great!

We had such a great time I think we're going to go back next mohth too. What was cool is that my friend Sean, of Sean Healy Presents and We Book Bands (yes, if you're a band and want to play in Hollywood, he can hook you up at venues all along the Sunset Strip. I believe it's pay or play, but go to his website to make sure ok? He's a good guy regardless. Tell him I sent you.)

Back to my story, so Sean told me about this night at the KeyClub which is free with awesome music and I posted my bday on myspace just to get the word out. What was nice is that the woman who created the night is also a publicist and she reps this chocolate covered strawberry company too.  She had a great spread of all kinds of goodies which made it seem even more celebratory.

My friend who was bringing my bday cake got stuck because of an accident and wasn't able to come. She ended up bringing the cake tonight and my birthday marches on. I will never complain about not celebrating my birthday EVER again! I'm feeling the  love! I've also been promised three other dinners which is great! Who said getting older has to be lonely?

It was great music, good friends, and fun people and I was completely having a great time until we decided to leave. Then I was in my car alone driving home having opted out of joining Rick and Shana at another dance club - just wasn't feeling like it which is so not me because I love to dance and we normally stay out together till 3am when we get going. I think accidently hearing my pastor's message about the decision on the singles ministry again when I was listening to messages at the club also didn't help. Sadness just overwhelmed me again and that's when I seriously contemplated suicide trying to decide where to drive to kill myself as I was on the freeway.

It scared me so much because I never feel like that (I'm going to the gyno to be checked because this is too extreme even for me) that I called my mom waking her up at 12:30am. I couldn't think of who else to call and this just felt like a mom moment.

She was so loving to me. She immediately invited me over to stay at their house so I wouldn't have to go home to the cold, empty house I'm crashing in. After we hung up I just began crying out to God asking him why? and how alone I felt and how much I really needed to feel loved. I also was crying out that I didn't want to live alone in my new condo when the guy who I felt had planned to ignore my bday that night called to say he was ready to come out and join us at the club (1am mind you).

This so floored me, I still couldn't stop crying and told him exactly how I felt about everything. He was amazingly nice, but it's hard when he's nice because again, his actions don't seem to fit his words sometimes. He said he'd call me the next day and I've yet to hear from him, but then again, would I really want to speak to someone who was hysterically sobbing either? I don't think guys can handle it and he was probably worried I was still in breakdown mode. I'm not, but that's besides the point.

Now all my guy friends have experienced this with me at one time or another (this happens very rarely, but when it does, watch out!) and they still manage to love and accept me which helps me realize that they really do care about me which is nice. They get my pms because they've all had girlfriends or sisters.

I don't think I'm sharing anything new about the female make-up right? :) However, this is the first time I've felt suicidal which is why I'm getting myself checked out. Something else must be up because the last time I felt like this was right after the adoption of my son and that was 7 years ago.

However, I think sometimes we need to hit rock bottom before we hear God's voice telling us that we're worth something and that He loves us unconditionally. My mom was sweet and called me back to read to me from the Psalms which really helped to calm me down. Plus, this guy was very kind (albeit maybe a little overwhelmed!) and made me feel ok. The reason I'm sharing all of this with you is to show the amazing way God works.

So, moving right along... I spent the night at my parents and enjoyed breakfast with them before dashing off to my new favorite class at my gym, Aqua Aerobics. What a fun way to exercise and it's great because I have so many previous injuries doing weight training in the water doesn't affect them! The woman who leads it is at least 300 pounds so she makes it real easy to feel comfortable in a bathing suit. I figure if she is having a great time and doesn't seem to care, then so can I! It really helped the day start out right.

I was still feeling drained and not myself so when I shared with one of my close girlfriends  who is like a sister to me (actually more than my real sister who I'm estranged from), she urged me to come spend the day with her because she didn't want me to be alone. Good girlfriend time was just what I needed. I also took a nap which helped. I looked like I'd been crying forever which was true, but at least I cleaned up ok. I ran a few errands after waking up and then went to my girlfriend's house to just hang out.

Changed into my "work" outfit and met my client, Actor Domiziano Arcangeli,  to go to one of the hottest Golden Globes parties of the weekend - Penelope Cruz's nomination party sponsored by LA Confidential Magazine, W Hotel  and some other cool companies.  It was real nice because they contacted me, I didn't have to solicit an invitation to this A-list party and we had a great time. We like to arrive at events early because then the red carpet isn't too crowded and we get good coverage. Plus, everyone's more accomodating because they're not slammed.

It was a great red carpet packed with photographers and other media types. It was so well-run it was simply a pleasure and a nice change of pace from some of the other things we've attended. It's an added touch when a PR firm provides escorts to make sure the celebrity feels cared for. We were whisked right into the VIP area where we sat and enjoyed a glass of champagne, lamb chop and seafood appetizers, and people watched like crazy.

Actress Virginia Madsen who I really admire was there and turns out she has a great interview in this month's issue of LA Confidential magazine. I love her quote: " Hollywood parties are filled with a lot of nervous, high-maintenance people and I was just never comfortable doing that." Truer words have never been spoken. You should have seen the people! Oy vey! It's quite a spectacle, but very entertaining! 

The W is an amazing place to attend an event because there's all these little cute rooms that make it fun to walk around. The decor is seductive, the lighting moody and you really feel like you're at a special place.

Coming off my weekend I was feeling very low-key which I'm normally not because people energize me, but it was fine because Domi had a dinner engagement which he had to leave for and I'm with him so.... I stared into the eyes of Actor Cuba Gooding Jr. as were walking to the valet and I couldn't figure out who was this very handsome man with the beautiful eyes was until he'd passed. I will never forget him saying, "Show me the money!"  in Jerry McGuire. That's the best movie. I wonder if he's saying it now to his current agent? Just kidding.

There were other celebrity types which was fun, but if I told you I'd have to kill you. Just kidding, but sometimes I don't feel like star gushing so just trust me it was a great party. Just what I needed. What a great way to start out the year's red carpet events. After waiting in the bitter cold for what seemed forever we collected our car and left leaving behind us all the crowds clamoring to get in. You should hear some of the lines people use to get in. It's quite funny. Telling you, it pays to come early... Easy in, easy out.

Then drove down to Torrance to connect with another good friend, Lisa, and her new church friends for some late night noshing. It was such a contrast to my night earlier, but very relaxing and nice. I bumped into Mike, my good buddy from college days again, and we caught up since seeing each other at the Christmas party I threw. It's just nice to have male friends who have known you forever in your life. We're good buds.

I was seriously debating on whether or not to attend OCF Church the next morning because I'm feeling so hurt, but when Lisa told me Duke, my old college pastor and the founding pastor of OCF, was going to be speaking, I couldn't resist seeing him again after all these years. I still had misgivings, but Lisa was going to be there and Kirsten had agreed to sit with me. I hate sitting in church by myself. Just hate it. That's when I feel very single and alone. Not fun.

So, here we are, finally at my amazing Sunday story. Now I'm sure you're probably prepared for me to tell you all about how wrong I was about OCF and life is hunky dory there and all that. Unfortunately, that's not the case. I feel so hurt and upset that we weren't allowed as singles to participate in the big open house they threw today it was all I could do to not start crying as I sat in the back room near another disenfranchised single guy I just met there this morning.

I kept waiting to hear and feel God through the music like I normally do, but I just wasn't feeling it. I did love hearing Duke speak again because he was such a big part of my young adulthood, it was nice to see who his family is and hear him speak - he still sounds exactly the same, but now is all gray. Such a great guy. I was a little surprised that he didn't share any scripture to bless the church, but chose a poem instead, but hey, that's his perogative.

Brandon spoke again and it was on Hebrews 12:28 - 13:  to finish out the series on Hebrews. Here is the reference in case you're curious:

^{Hebrews 12: 28}Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, ²⁹for our "God is a consuming fire."

Hebrews 13:1-6 & 20,21

Concluding Exhortations

    ¹Keep on loving each other as brothers. ²Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it. ³Remember those in prison as if you were their fellow prisoners, and those who are mistreated as if you yourselves were suffering.

    ⁴Marriage should be honored by all, and the marriage bed kept pure, for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral. ⁵Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said,
   "Never will I leave you;
      never will I forsake you."^{[a] 6}So we say with confidence,
   "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.
      What can man do to me?"^[b]

    ²⁰May the God of peace, who through the blood of the eternal covenant brought back from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great Shepherd of the sheep, ²¹equip you with everything good for doing his will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.

What was so interesting is that Brandon spoke on all these verses, but chose not to speak on the second half of verse 4 which says, " for God will judge the adulterer and all the sexually immoral." Instead he spoke that sex outside of marriage is a selfish action because then it's just for pleasure - duh! I'm sorry, I'm just feeling a little bitter because there's nothing I'd like more than to enjoy sex within marriage. Just another reminder that I'm single and am not enjoying what marrieds do. Oy vey!

He did mention that we needed to not be selfish and give to others, but I have to admit it's hard to consider doing that when you're feeling drained and suicidal. I was so upset by everything I chose to leave early rather than just sit there and feel resentful and hurt. That's not the reason you go to church, nor is it what God wants for his children.

I bumped into Kirsten on the way out and after a quick hug explained that I needed to get out of there. She totally understood and was sorry we had missed each other (she was sitting on the other side!) Got into my car and began tearing up, but decided enough was enough. What I really needed to do was find a church where I would actually hear God's love through the message apart from the people at the church and chose to drive to my friend's Lisa's new church.

Now this is where the story gets good and shows how amazing God's love is. Here I am feeling totally upset and angry and hurt, but God had a surprise in store for me. I called my friend Judy and explained to her that after listening to Duke explain how he started OCF over 21 years ago in a small Bible study as an off-shoot as a larger church in the area, I realized right then and there, that I really needed to start something for singles, even if it was small and I didn't have spiritual covering of OCF. She understood and we had a nice conversation until my phone lost reception.

I was driving along, talking to her and trying to figure out where the other church was, when I, on a whim, decided to turn left into an industrial park area because I knew it was in that type environment where Lisa's church was located. Judy had had some cautions regarding that church which is why, when I saw the sign for Redeemer Presbyterian I decided again, on a whim, to visit that church instead. At this point I didn't care who I heard, I just needed to hear someone else and put the whole OCF hurtful experience behind me.

Now in New York, where I had first attended this church and heard of it, it was huge  and packed with almost 600 people or more. I was fully expecting to see that when I walked through the doors, but was totally shocked to see only a handful of people. It would have been too obvious if I left so I decided maybe this is where God wanted me today so why not check it out.

I met a lady in the back and she told me about a women's Bible Study that would be starting on Saturday mornings when I asked what all they do. I saw maybe one other single woman, but that wasn't my purpose for attending. To be honest I didn't really care.

It was a totally different style of service than I've gone to - we sang hymns (haven't done that since a child) which was healing because the words are so much deeper than the average current worship music; we did responsive readings from Psalms (which again I haven't done since a child); and the minister was wearing a robe. Complete opposite of OCF!

I didn't know what to expect, but I really liked the spirit of the pastor and when he began teaching from Genesis 2:18-25 on "The Comforts of Companionship" I knew God had lead me there and was speaking straight to my hurting heart. Here's the reference in case you're interested:

Genesis 2:18-25:

    ¹⁸ The LORD God said, "It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suitable for him."

    ¹⁹ Now the LORD God had formed out of the ground all the beasts of the field and all the birds of the air. He brought them to the man to see what he would name them; and whatever the man called each living creature, that was its name. ²⁰ So the man gave names to all the livestock, the birds of the air and all the beasts of the field.
      But for Adam ^[a] no suitable helper was found. ²¹ So the LORD God caused the man to fall into a deep sleep; and while he was sleeping, he took one of the man's ribs ^[b] and closed up the place with flesh. ²² Then the LORD God made a woman from the rib ^[c] he had taken out of the man, and he brought her to the man.

    ²³ The man said,
       "This is now bone of my bones
       and flesh of my flesh;
       she shall be called 'woman, ^[d] '
       for she was taken out of man."

    ²⁴ For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh.

    ²⁵ The man and his wife were both naked, and they felt no shame.

Isn't that amazing? A pastor who gets that God is a relational God and understands that marriage is one of the most essential needs a person experiences (at least those of us who want to be married!) Then Pastor John Ratnal proceeded to explain all the different scenarios that can surround this idea and he actually acknowledged singles and our heart's struggles. I knew I'd found a pastor I could relate to and share my heart with.

He explained that the intimacy of marriage is an example of the intimacy of the trinity. Also, that intimacy is self-disclosure of the spiritual essence of our soul. It's not merely physical, but when we take the risk to be close to someone we allow them to step inside our boundaries. THAT'S WHAT I'VE BEEN CRAVING!! Finally having it put into words help me realize that there are pastors who have empathy and understand this deep, deep need to be understood and heard which I haven't felt at all lately.

As soon as the service was over I made a beeline for the pastor and asked if I could meet with him. I decided I needed some pastoral counseling and felt he was the right man who could help me figure out some things. Little did I know how right I really was!

Christina, the woman I had met earlier, quickly grabbed me afterwards and said you have to meet Cindy. Now I didn't know who Cindy was, but what a sweetie! She's the pastor's wife and what wonderful people this couple is. Turns out they've just moved out from Colorado Springs, CO  (where my son used to live and near where my sister currently lives); they just moved into a beautiful home that is on the same street where I'm staying now just a few blocks away; and the pastor has done commercials and his wife used to lead a drama group! Now you can't tell me that God wasn't leading me right where I needed to go today!

But, that's not all! Through the course of our conversation I mentioned my struggles with trying to start a singles ministry and Cindy said share it with us, why don't you come over for lunch? How often does that happen in this day and age? Here they are practicing what Brandon was preaching on earlier in the day, Hebrews 13:2 "Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by so doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it." Now I know I'm not an angel, but I was a stranger!

I was so excited that someone actually was interested in singles that I dashed home to change and print out everything I'd written to share with them. Just in case you're curious and think I'm trying to start a dating service, like the guy at the lunch who joined us, here's my heart and the mission I see:

OCEANSIDE

CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP’S

SOUL SUPPORT

MISSION

STATEMENT

Hebrews 10:24-25:
24And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. 25Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Purpose -- Soul Support is the place to gather and grow in fellowship and maturity around God’s Word and with God’s people. Soul Support’s single-minded mission is to provide a safe community for single believers who are interested in growing in their relationship with God and with each other as friends.

Soul Support offers the opportunity for singles to socialize, worship, and dig into the Bible on a deeper level. Our desire is to create meaningful relationships through healthy activities aimed at moving our hearts closer towards God and each other.

Service – We believe in being actively engaged with the OCF family by participating in and assisting with various ministries, such as the annual Church in the Park, New Year’s celebrations, short-term mission trips, and other outreach opportunities.

Fellowship – We are an active group with diverse interests and believe in creating encouraging Christian friendships while having fun together. Sometimes we go out to lunch after Sunday morning services or initiate other impromptu get-togethers. For the latest on our monthly events, look in the bulletin or refer to the church website: www.ocfchurch.com.

Join our Soul Support email list to get the latest on activities that are going on  throughout the month – these may include shopping, movies, dinners, coffee, plays, live music, or just spending quality time together at someone’s home. We will also plan other activities as new ideas are generated.

Bible Study - Each Friday night, singles from all over the

South

Bay

enjoy a relaxing environment that includes dinner and a message given by ??? followed by the chance to interact with each other.

(OR NOT – this is just a suggestion based on the success of such a program at Mariner’s Church – we might also consider just having the Bible Study at OCF with small group interaction and going out to eat together afterwards too like they do at King’s Harbor church.

Or start an Adult Bible Study on Sunday mornings at 9am or Sunday evenings at 7pm that is open to both singles and marrieds to further develop relationships in a non-threatening environment. This could include worship, study, discussion and application of God’s word to our lives through the study of a book.)

See? It's nice isn't it? So, if you're a Christian reading this keep your eyes peeled for Soul Support events ok because they're coming soon to the South Bay!:) I was so excited that someone was actually open to hearing about a possible singles ministry I called my friend Lisa to share and she prayed that my lunch would confirm whether or not this was the right step.

It's such the right step I can't even begin to tell you. John & Cindy are the warmest, most loving, open pastoral couple I've met in a long time. They just love the Lord, love living in CA, and love their new home which they call Redeemer Pres West because they want to host many activities there. It's really beautiful and when Cindy explained that a professional interior designer friend had come out to help her decorate it was quite obvious because it was so fun and inviting  - plum couches, a multi-color chandelier, and amazing art. Totally creative and totally my style!

It was fun to see what another house looked like in the neighborhood too and what their neighbors home went for because Dad is back in fix-up mode on this place again which is good. $750,000 folks - amazing, but true in CA. This isn't one of the highest priced neighborhoods by any means either. Most homes in this area are close to a million or more.

Cindy and John are truly amazing people and kept asking me questions about myself while serving an amazing lunch. People who are married doesn't always understand the simple pleasure of eating with other people, or the pleasure of a home-cooked meal. I felt very loved and welcome which was just what I needed, especially today!

They loved my ideas for Soul Support and John went so far as to offer their facility for any event I wanted with the knowledge that this wasn't going to be "their" ministry per se, but they wanted to help facilitate it getting going. How cool is that? See, there is a God and He's interested in the most finite details of our lives. He truly wants to give us the desires of our heart if we let him.

I think I had to go through the hell I went through on Friday night to realize that I really don't want to be sleeping with anyone outside of marriage anymore and want His will in my life. I read Psalm 51 Saturday morning:

Psalm 51

For the director of music. A psalm of David. When the prophet Nathan came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba.

    ¹ Have mercy on me, O God,
       according to your unfailing love;
       according to your great compassion
       blot out my transgressions.

    ² Wash away all my iniquity
       and cleanse me from my sin.

    ³ For I know my transgressions,
       and my sin is always before me.

    ⁴ Against you, you only, have I sinned
       and done what is evil in your sight,
       so that you are proved right when you speak
       and justified when you judge.

    ⁵ Surely I was sinful at birth,
       sinful from the time my mother conceived me.

    ⁶ Surely you desire truth in the inner parts ^[a] ;
       you teach ^[b] me wisdom in the inmost place.

    ⁷ Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean;
       wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.

    ⁸ Let me hear joy and gladness;
       let the bones you have crushed rejoice.

    ⁹ Hide your face from my sins
       and blot out all my iniquity.

    ¹⁰ Create in me a pure heart, O God,
       and renew a steadfast spirit within me.

    ¹¹ Do not cast me from your presence
       or take your Holy Spirit from me.

   12 Restore to me the joy of your salvation
       and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. ¹ 

    ¹³ Then I will teach transgressors your ways,
       and sinners will turn back to you.

    ¹⁴ Save me from bloodguilt, O God,
       the God who saves me,
       and my tongue will sing of your righteousness.

    ¹⁵ O Lord, open my lips,
       and my mouth will declare your praise.

    ¹⁶ You do not delight in sacrifice, or I would bring it;
       you do not take pleasure in burnt offerings.

   ¹⁷ The sacrifices of God are ^[c] a broken spirit;
       a broken and contrite heart,
       O God, you will not despise.

I haven't been so broken in a long time. Now I really want to honor God with my life and my body even more. I'm hoping the verse: "     1 Corinthians 7:9 But if they cannot control themselves, they should marry, for it is better to marry than to burn with passion." will happen soon. I'm burning up for your love baby!

So, now do you see why I'm on such a high? After feeling so shut down and closed out of serving God for so many months to finally find a church leader who gets it and is willing to go for it... I'm over the moon so to speak.

After our wonderful lunch, Pastor John prayed for me and the guy who I care about and this ministry which was very life affirming. There's just something about prayer that is so freeing, so life giving. I just love it. I've been calling all my friends and family who've been listening to me bitch and moan for the last few months to share the good news and they are so excited with me.

Now to see what God has in store! I'm still not sure I'm leaving OCF because if I can start this ministry and have an outlet there, maybe it won't be so hard to go to their Sunday morning services now. I'm also wanting to wait to hear what they decide after their leadership meeting. Maybe now that the Open House is over... we'll see. To be honest, I don't really care anymore. They can do what they're going to do, but God is going to do what He's going to do too! I may switch, but like Judy pointed out I need to give them the opportunity to share what they envision since I have raised such a fuss.

Plus, Cindy & John are leaving for a few weeks to attend their daughter's wedding who ironically enough met her fiance through her blog so they won't even be here if I wanted to be ministered by them sooner.

Maybe this has been God's plan all along to create an outreach that isn't defined by the church, but more by the people. All I know is I better get the Super Bowl party planned and get my friends on board. I also want to book the new Lucky Strike Bowling Alley for Valentines Day.

I love bowling parties on Valentines Day because then you're with other single friends, but it's not a big dating hook-up, just fun. Plus, that particular place is hip and sets the tone for what it is that I want to create for this outreach. I hate boring Christian events. God is a God of creativity and quality. Time to show it.

I"m so tired, but have to share what a great time I had at my Blogging Network group too! (Our official name is The Blog/Zine Network.) Very intelligent people showed up and we all shared tips and suggestions that have worked for all of us. What an interesting group of people! 

That's what I love about bloggers, we're all over the board, but we all share a passion for sharing our lives. I'm excited to see how the group continues to unfold. We all enjoyed the chocolate mousse cake Alexandra, my co-leader brought which was delightful too! I would write more, but I'd dead tired.

Plus, I want to catch up on last Thursday's Grey's Anatomy episode online. I would have gone to celebrate Hermosa Beach's 100th Anniversary down at the pier tonight too, but didn't have anyone to go with and it's still bitter cold. I just felt like sharing this amazing story (at least it's amazing to me - how many people do you know who turn into a street and find such abundance of spirit?)

So, if you've read this far, here's a fun video to congratulate you on reading all the way through. It's one of the top downloaded music videos (9 million hits on you tube) and is nominated for a Grammy. It's great and lots of fun. Enjoy! Ok Go - Here It Goes Again.

I may have posted this before, but it bears repeating...

Singles Need Church Care
Many churches across the country are starting to recognize the need for single-adult ministry, but there is still a long way to go.
by Ann-Margret Hovsepian

The evangelical community, faced increasingly with issues such as divorce, abortion, homosexuality and cohabitation, is working hard to uphold traditional family values—and well it should. The flip side of this is that single adult Christians often are left with the sense that they need to be married to be "okay."

… many churches are reluctant to begin single adult ministries … "The perception is that these are people with a lot of problems … ."

The challenge for churches today is to adopt a balanced biblical approach to marriage, one that emphasizes the importance of healthy relationships while also acknowledging—without being patronizing—that singleness is given as much value in the Bible. The Bible indicates that marriage is God's general will for human beings (see Genesis 2:18)but it also affirms the single life (1 Corinthians 7).

Many churches across the country are starting to recognize the need for single-adult ministry, but there is still a long way to go, according to the experts. Ruth Stockdale, executive director of Canadian Single Adult Ministry (formerly Single Adults Alive) in Oakville, Ont., says that churches are becoming more sensitive to the need for single-adult ministry. "It's beginning to be in [people's] thought processes," she said.

Experts Challenge Our Preconceptions About Singles

• Singleness is not a punishment (and marriage is not a reward or higher calling)

• Marriage is not the solution to a single person's problems.

• Not all singles are discontent or dissatisfied.

• Singles are not necessarily more self-centred than married people.

• Singles are not necessarily more sexually frustrated than married people.

• Singleness is not an indication of immaturity, deep emotional problems or something "wrong."

• Singles are not necessarily pre-occupied with finding a spouse.

• Singles don't necessarily have a lot of money.

• Singles don't necessarily have more time than married people.

• Singles can lead just as effectively as married people.

• Singles are not necessarily lonelier than married people.

• "Loneliness is a disease of our total society," says Stockdale.

• Singles are not "incomplete" without marriage.

• God will not necessarily give someone a mate as soon as he or she is content with being single.

• Singles will go wherever there is a spiritual body that recognizes their needs—and that may mean going outside of their own church or denomination.

Sam Moorcroft is 35, single and president of ChristianCafe.com, a Toronto-based Internet meeting place for Christian singles around the world. He says that churches in general are not ministering to single adults very well. "I have lived in Vancouver, London and Toronto. There are so many single Christians, and nothing organized for them. Fifty percent of adults in Canada and the United States are single or single again," he said. "That's a huge group, and many of them are not 21—they are 31, 41, 51." He says that churches often push singles toward meeting someone but don't have anything set up to enable that, and those that do don't usually cooperate with other churches. "To me, churches need to work together."

Al Saunders, national coordinator of adult ministries with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada in Mississauga, Ont., says he wishes all PAOC churches were involved in single-adult ministry. Only 13 percent (or 110 churches) are. "Those who are active in single-adult ministry are doing a great job. Apart from that, there isn't a lot of intentionality." He advises churches: "Have a look at Canada today and recognize the number of single adults and that this is a great mission field."

Saunders says that many churches are reluctant to begin single adult ministries because, basically, it's not easy. "Many of these people have been through divorce and have a lot of hurts. The perception is that these are people with a lot of problems. The truth is they don't have any more problems than anyone else." Saunders cautions against stereotypes and suggests that churches, more than anything, simply lack understanding of the needs of single adults.

Are some churches holding back because they fear that a single-adult ministry will turn out to be a singles "club" or a matchmaking opportunity? "Yes," Saunders answers. "If that's their thinking, then do away with youth groups," he says, pointing out that young people often end up pairing up and dating, and if churches don't have a problem with that, then there shouldn't be a problem with activities for single adults. Most single adults are not trying to find someone when they attend events anyway, he suggests, because so many of them have come out of painful relationships—they simply want fellowship with people who understand and care.

The PAOC is looking at a proposal for a Bible college course on single adult/single-parent ministry and has on hand statistics that seem to support the need for a greater emphasis on single-adult ministry among churches in Canada. Traditional nuclear families (biological parents and children) represent only 27 percent of families in Canada, and that figure is expected to drop to 20 percent this year. In contrast, 47 percent of families are blended (created primarily by divorce and remarriage), 14.5 percent are headed by a single parent and 11.5 percent are common-law (the last two figures are expected to rise by about three percent).

"Between 1995 and 1999 there has been an 18 percent increase in singles in Canada, compared to only a 10 percent increase in the general population," said Stockdale, referring to a May 2000 article in Macleans. "It has to do with the breakdown in families. [Role] modeling, security and confidence are being lost," she said. "Rather than go through that hurt, people are deciding to remain single."

Moorcroft says, "A lot of it has to do with society—divorce, abuse, adultery. Many people are single again … a whole group that was never there before." He points out that with a greater focus on education lately, people are getting married later than before. As well, many young people have been raised in dysfunctional families and have difficulty relating to the opposite sex and understanding the concept of family. Saunders says that many single adults "have come through homes broken by divorce. They're leery. They need relationships but are scared to make a commitment."

According to Stockdale, many singles feel marginalized and need acceptance. "A lot of them have lost their dream, or their spouse through death or divorce," she says. "They need healing." She says that divorced people are often not accepted in church and that "Christians need to be like Jesus with the woman at the well." She also points out that widows and widowers often lose the married community they were once a part of. "We have to recognize that singles' needs are no different than married people's needs. They need prayer, they need to serve, to be accountable and to have fellowship. They don't need a baby-sitter or to be felt sorry for," she says.

Another area that churches seem uncomfortable with is the whole idea of the sexuality of single adults. Church leaders prescribe celibacy for Christian singles with little discussion and little recognition that singles have as great a need for intimate relationships as anyone else. And because extra-marital sex almost seems to be regarded as an unforgivable sin, it is difficult for singles to go to their church and ask for help with their struggles. "There is no recognition by the Church that Christians have sexual drives," says Moorcroft, adding that churches need to deal with this issue.

There are a number of misconceptions about singleness that need to be confronted before effective single-adult ministry can happen. Singles are not "incomplete" without marriage, for example. "Two become one," says Moorcroft," but that doesn't mean you're lacking something if you're single. [Your partner] rounds you out but doesn't complete you. That person shouldn't fill the void in your life. You need to be complete first." There are many benefits to being single, the most obvious one perhaps being the freedom to come and go as one wishes. "You can do whatever you want on Saturday!" says Moorcroft. He adds that singles can "live in the present and enjoy the moment. There's no down side, really." Stockdale points to the opportunities to develop one's relationship with the Lord and to interact with many people. "You can serve in areas where you couldn't if you were married and had a family," she says.

Don't feel guilty about being single or not living up to societal standards.

Some tips for singles from Moorcroft: "Number one, turn to the Lord. He's the one who knows who your future mate is. You need to be inwardly focussed instead of having a shopping list. Use this as a time to prepare yourself. Recognize that there are a whole lot of others facing the same issues. Get out and participate in events—not primarily to meet someone, but simply to participate. If you come across as desperate, you will turn the other person off." Moorcroft adds that many singles need to develop their relational skills. "We hear that we need to do this, but we don't act." He also says that singles need to "bug" their churches about having a single-adult ministry and then get involved. "We go to organized events, but we don't' organize them."

Stockdale advises: "Don't feel guilty about being single or not living up to societal standards. Don't be consumed by worrying about the future—live each day to the fullest. Try to do something positive every day. Be honest all the time and feel comfortable about saying "no." Take responsibility for doing what's right for you. Get out of ruts; break out of routines. Don't allow others to define who you are."

To Saunders, the most important thing single adults can do is "concentrate on learning what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. Get involved in the life of a church that is focused on discipleship."

Singles can be happy, fulfilled and effective Christians if they are encouraged to celebrate the gifts God has given them and are accepted as an important part of their church families.

I might just have to start something!

I just reread the article that I highlight in the next couple posts and man, one church doesn't even have a teaching pastor, but relies on video messages from a famous preacher at a large church in IL. I could do that! Wouldn't that be cool?!!!!

One of my girlfriends from my church and I had a LONG conversation the other night about all this and she asked if I'd ever thought about starting something outside of the church. I have, but it's a lot of work to find a location and I really do like having someone more spiritual involved, but if she would do it with me... Plus, I'm sure I'd find other believers who are passionate for Jesus who would consider coming aboard. I just don't want the politics.

We'll see. Like I've said before, I'm going to wait and see what my current church leadership decides and then make my final decision. Hopefully, with all the churches I have praying for us God will move and quickly! :) I'm getting tired of waiting God! We need community and we need it now!

I don't really think married people understand what we go through, although I have met a few who are sensitive. I love being single, but I just wish I had a best friend in my life and in my bed. Oh well, in God's timing, not mine. In any case, hope you're enjoying the messages available on the 7:22 website - I'm sitting here typing as I listen to the music - they sure have a lot of music!

I'm eager to hear the message. I've decided I'm not going to move to Atlanta after all, but I may just have to make a visit to see what they're doing up close and personal. I love research and always find it helps when you're starting something you haven't before.

Wouldn't that be funny if I traveled to all these singles ministries around the country and then met someone in my travels? God what do you think? I have no ties right now and can do the work I do from wherever... I just want to meet men and women who are sold out for you. I want to learn how to live a passionate life filled with God's love. Anyone with me?

Better get going. Have my new writing group today and I haven't prepared the stuff I wanted to share yet! Too busy getting my parties going...Ha Ha.

Okay, I think the message is starting. Take care and try to listen too! Love ya!

I'm so excited - I feel like moving to Atlanta!

It's the small things in life folks. I've just learned of an amazing Christian singles outreach in the Atlanta area called 7:22. What they are doing is really amazing. If you read the next post it explains this movement in more detail. It's just really exciting to see something that dynamic happening and how they're achieving it. I cheated and just sent the links to both of these sites to my church leaders because they need to see it can happen and quite successfully!

Maybe it's because I'm a strong woman, maybe it's just me, I don't know, but I am asking everyone I know to pray for my church to see the need for a singles ministry in the South Bay and fill it. If I have huge Christian Singles ministries praying for us, maybe, just maybe, God will tilt it in our favor! Wouldn't that be exciting?

I just have such a big vision for this and see God doing really amazing things if/when we can do something for Christian Singles. There is SUCH a huge need to have a community where you feel understood, loved, and held accountable. I miss that from my youth and maybe I'm trying to recreate something that can't be, but I think it can be.

I have started so many successful 12-step meetings over the past five years it's not even funny. I think I've started 4 and they're all still running and many are filled to capacity every time. I feel that time in my life was to give to the people in that fellowship, but now it's time to give to Christian singles. We really need to feel like we're part of something bigger than ourselves. At least that's the way I feel.

In any case, I'm thrilled to see what others are doing and hope and pray that God will move in the hearts of the married leaders of my church to see that the time is now! I'm not just saying this for me, but because I know so many people who are hurting and lonely and crave fellowship too. God has put this passion in my heart for this and it just won't go away no matter how hard I try to let it go.

So, just had to share. It's hard when you go to a church where everything is geared towards married people - it's like looking through the glass and wishing you were on the other side of the window. However, I know that if it's not here at my church, then I'll find or create fellowship with others soon! I'm too driven not to. Plus, I feel like God wants this in my life which is why I'm pushing forward regardless. I NEED Christians in my life. I feel there is a sweetness, a gentleness, and love that just isn't found with other friends. Not to say they're bad, but it's just different.

I want more Jesus in my life. Bottom line. If that means finding like-minded people outside of a church setting and establishing my own group, then so be it. It's not what I want to do, but I'm willing to if this is where God leads me.

So, that's all for now. I was just so excited about this new information I had to share and all my other friends are asleep!

Have a good one! P.S. I had a really nice birthday party tonight - very good people showed up and I feel very loved. Thank you everyone! Now for my Friday bash!

Very interesting article on singles in the church

The Coming Singles Revolution Josh Hunt

If you are married, you are six times more likely to attend church than if you are single.

This is based on a rather simple observation. About half the adults in America are single, while the other half are married. Only about 15% of the adults who attend our churches are single.

What about your church? What percentage of your church is composed of single adults? If yours is a typical church, it is a pretty small number. It is far less than half of your adults.

I didn't think too much about this until, two and a half years ago, I went through and unwanted and unexpected divorce. Suddenly, statistically realities became very personal for me. It occurs to me that most pastors and staff don't think too much about this because most pastors and staff are married. We tend to view life from our own perspective. Mine recently changed.

One of the things I noticed right away is that church is sort of a couple's world. I noticed in my own seminars how often I spoke of reaching couples. There are numerous choices for couples classes, but precious few for singles. I have heard lots of sermons on Christian marriage, but not so many on living life single for God. Compare the number of books in your Christian book store on Christian marriage to Christian single life.

After the dust settled and I got over most of my own grief in divorce, I started thinking about how we can effectively reach the most unreached half of the population. Here are some converging trends I see that I think will create a singles revolution in church life. This is all new stuff for me, so it may be a bit rough around the edges.

A Proven Model

The most proven model for reaching singles is a not a local church; it is local churches working together. These are often called Metro. One example of this is the 7:22 hosted by North Pointe Community Church (a.k.a. Andy Stanley) in Atlanta. This "Metro" is led by Louie Giglio of the Passion movement. (Much of the cutting edge contemporary Christian music is coming from this passion movement. You may not have known it, but you have heard their songs.)

Here is an excerpt from the 7:22 web page as to their vision.

The Vision 7:22 's vision has been pretty simple from the start. Our vision has been that God would use us to influence and help change the single adult culture in Atlanta. Our vision hasn't been to simply be a large singles Bible Study even though we now have over 3,000 singles from 350 churches attending. Our vision has not been to be a place that would be known for it's great band and speaker even though we're fortunate to have both. 7:22 from it's inception has simply wanted to be a place of hope, celebration and influence among the single adults of Atlanta.

From the viewpoint of a single adult, this makes total sense. I want an opportunity to make friends with Christian singles across the city, not just in my local church. The presence of this city-wide, interdenominational, inter-church fellowship is a way of strengthening the singles' ministry of all the churches.

Similar Metro's can be found in Houston, Orlando, Dallas, and Memphis, to name a few.

I am involved with Southwest Christian Singles, a much smaller, simpler organization. Still, I have been amazed at the outreach and ministry potential. Nearly every event has newcomers. I have had self-described atheists call and ask if they could come to events and come to our Bible studies. When was the last time that happened in your church? My experience personally and my observation of effective singles ministries leads me to the conclusion that a city-wide interdenominational inter-church ministry is the best way to reach and minister to singles. Our group is fellowship driven and advertised almost exclusively through email.

Speaking of Email. . .

This all became much easier with the advent of email. Singles have always wanted to get together. It was just too much trouble to get the word out before. Someone had to make a bunch of calls, pay for flyers and postage, and it was all a lot of work. Email is free, easy, and quick. It makes it possible to put together a city-wide, interdenominational, inter-church singles group.

A Means of Reproduction

"Great!" you may be saying, "But I don't have the resources to pull off one of these huge metro events." I see another trend that, in time, will converge with this Metro trend and is going to change the face of church as we know it, including singles' ministry.

On July 19, 1998 a new church was born. Not only a new church, a new kind of church. Currently, they have 1500 in attendance, and here is the rub: they have no preaching pastor and no plans to get one. The church is Heartland Community Church. Instead of live preaching, they enjoy the preaching of Bill Hybels and John Ortberg each week by way of video. Let that picture settle in. Where will we be in ten years if this develops into a trend?

Northcoast Community Church uses a slightly different spin. They have thirteen services a weekend, only three of which feature live teaching. The rest are either live video feed or taped video. The culture is O. K. with receiving teaching from a big screen.

Willowcreek is experimenting with another model where they videocast their services to Wheaton. Other locations are planned. Local small groups and other ministries are coordinated by a pastor for the Wheaton Campus. I have a friend on staff at Saddleback who tells me they have similar plans. Second Baptist, Houston has a similar arrangement in place.

These are examples of a trend I see that will transform church life as we know it. They demonstrate that people are open and responsive to high quality teaching by way of video. It is made possible by the video projector. Watching a service on a large screen with a bright video projector and a solid sound system is a completely different experience than watching it on a 25" screen with a 3" speaker. Also, the video projector means that nearly every large church in America is producing video. Even churches that are anti-TV ministry are producing video. They are magnifying the speaker on large screens in the auditorium. It is a pretty short trip from there to duplicating these videos.

I noticed when I attended Willowcreek this last fall that I looked at the video monitors about half the time, and I was sitting on the third row. I am sure if I were halfway back I would have watched the monitors most of the time.

Bottom line: these city-wide, interdenominational inter-church singles groups are reproducible.

What if. . .

What if we could put together a hot band with really worshipful music? What if we could get a hold of Louie Gigleo's messages by way of video and project them on a huge screen? What if we bathed the whole process in prayer and cried out to the Lord of the harvest to do what we can never do? What if we sensed His leadership in pursuing this direction? Do you think we could fill the hall with singles thirsty for connection and thirsty for God? We could. Trust me on this. We could.

The law of sowing and reaping teaches that if you plant the same seed in similar soil in similar conditions you will get similar results. There is a certain predictability in our universe. God has made it so. This is why a farmer in Georgia can plant seed in his farm and get similar results to a farmer in Alabama. It is why a church planter in Georgia can do similar things to a church planter in Chicago and get similar results. It is why we have Willowcreek style churches all over the nation. Similar activities done in similar environment get similar results. God said it would be so in the strongest possible language: "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows." Galatians 6:7

So, how do we put together a city-wide, interdenominational inter-church ministry to singles?

One problem. . .

I think I could put together the music, but the truth is, Louie Gigleo's messages are not available on video. Neither are Bill Hybels, Rick Warren, Jim Cymbala, Andy Stanley, Ed Young Jr., Ed Young Sr., or a lot of other communicators we would like to enjoy. But, most of these speakers do use video in their worship service to make it easier to see the speaker. My guess is that in many cases it is just a matter of time before these videos are available.

Many speakers are already available. In my Singles' Bible study, we are using some of Dr. Kent Hovind of Creation Science Evangelism talks on creation. We have used some of Townsend and Cloud's videos. I plan to use the Prayer of Jabez by Bruce Wilkinson next month. Charles Stanley, David Jeremiah, and Jack Hayford already have videos available, as well as many others.

So, how do we get started putting together a city-wide interdenominational inter-church ministry to singles?

Move slowly, but move.

I believe in the adage, "Grow into ministry, don't go into ministry." There a few sharp turns on the path to success. Here are a few simple steps to get your church ramped up to reach singles:

• Begin networking with other churches singles groups. Plan fellowships together.
• Start an email list for everyone interested in activities. Christian Email is one free source. Email is free, easy, quick, and singles are happy to hear about fun activities that are going on.
• Look for leadership. Everything rises and falls on leadership.
• Look for musicians. Eventually, you want to have live music. (There are enormous copyright complications in putting the music on video; it is not likely to happen any time soon.)
• Look into some of the videos listed above.
• Pray the Lord of the harvest to do a movement among the other half of the population—singles.

I am new to this world of singles, and, like a lot of singles, a rather accidental single. I am excited to see how God will make this work together for good. I look forward to attending at Cook's Single Adult Ministry Conference in February, as well as presenting the Double Conference while there.

God loves singles. The epidemic of loneliness strikes more deeply with singles than with married adults. It occurs to me that the party-driven, Double Your Class philosophy may work better for singles than anywhere else.

Being single in the church today - not pretty

I wasn't going to type at all today because my hands and tendons are acting up, but I feel compelled to share these articles with you in hopes you'll better understand me and where I'm coming from in my desire to start a singles ministry where there currently is none.

My heart grieves with the thought that my senior pastor is so blind to the needs of the single population of our church and doesn't want to "segment" the church, but is willing to continue to exclude singles by virtue of always promoting "Family" activities. That's segmenting right there! Only it's an acceptable segment because it's the norm, it's what they're used to, and what they know.

Please pray that I'll accept whatever is decided. I'm really upset that I feel so ignored, so misunderstood, so pushed aside, and so marginalized and bastardized along with all my other single friends who go there. WE ARE A VALID PART OF THE CHURCH BODY DAMMIT AND DESERVE TO BE RECOGNIZED! I would swear more, but that would defeat the purpose.

God, I just turn this over to you. I give up. Not my will, but thine be done.

Read on if you care to hear what an outside source says about this issue - hopefully if anyone from OCF is reading my blog, or any other church leader, then they'll understand a little better. For the rest of you, here's an inside peek into what we go through - not pretty, eh? HA!

A Statement of the Pennsylvania Conference on Interchurch Cooperation, 1990

Singles in the Church

The Single Life

"As a single person I need companionship and deep relationships that happily married persons have. I think the church could be really a Christian community for me, but as a single even that fellowship is sometimes limited."

"I call to the Lord for help; I plead with him. I bring him all my complaints; I tell him all my troubles. When I am ready to give up, he knows what I should do  . . . When I look beside me, I see that there is no one to help me, no one to protect me. No one cares for me. Lord, I cry to you for help; you, Lord, are my protector; you are all I want in this life." (Psalm 142:1-5)

"The Single Life" comprises many different types of people with many different needs and experiences. "Singles" may include:

• Those who have never married;
• Those now separated or divorced;
• The widowed;
• Single parents with children to support;
• Young and old;
• Male and female;
• Those who choose freely to remain single (with or without a "vow"); and
• Those who, by circumstance rather than choice, are single.

Many singles have this in common; they face life decisions alone. This statement addresses especially those singles who live alone, without a spouse or children. We want to call the church's attention to the uniquenesses of their situation and we invite the churches to be concerned with this particular segment of their membership. However, all single persons, no matter what their situation, are in need of our Christian attention and concern.

The number of single persons in our society is on the rise. Over one-third of the adult population in the United States is single. Studies indicate that approximately 60% of singles are women and the percentage of divorced singles is rapidly growing.  The largest segment of the population living below the poverty line is the single parent with children to support.  Singles span all age groups.

These figures represent a decrease in the percentage of the total population who are married, which corresponds to an increase in the percentage of the population who choose not to marry or who have been married and are now single.  Some analysts believe that this rise in the number of single persons reflects a de-emphasis of our traditional large family unit; the changing role of women in our society; an increased individualistic approach to life; and a rise in the median age for those choosing marriage.

A Biblical View of the Single Life

"And his mother and his brothers came; and standing outside they sent to him and called him. And a crowd was sitting about him; and they said to him, 'Your mother and your brothers are outside, asking for you.' And he replied, 'Who are my mother and my brothers?' And looking around on those who sat about him, he said, 'Here are my mother and my brothers! Whoever does the will of God is my brother, and sister and mother." (Mark 3.31-35)

As Christians, we affirm God's love for all people. We believe that God loves us as we are and not as we might be. St. John writes that we are God's children now (cf. 1 John 3:2). Therefore, both the married and the single form part of God's family and share equally in God's love.

In the Old Testament, marriage was normally expected since the Hebrew people placed great importance on the family, on stability and on assuring the continuance of the Jewish people. Children were seen as a sign of God's bounty, grace and blessing. Virginity was not widely accepted as a positive value or virtue.

In the New Testament, however, this view begins to change. St. Paul, the first writer of the New Testament, notes that under the New Covenant there is no distinction of persons in Christ. Male or female, slave or free, Jew or Gentile are all one in Christ Jesus (cf. Gal. 3:28). All former societal positions of disadvantage are gone for those who are now "in Christ."

St. Paul also writes, in his first letter to the church at Corinth, that in light of the imminent return of the Lord, each person should remain in the state that they are at present, married or single, as they were when called by the Lord. St. Paul then states that the single life is, in fact, to be preferred over marriage for the Christian. He says:

"I would like you to be free from worry. An unmarried man concerns himself with the Lord's work, because he is trying to please the Lord. But a married man concerns himself with worldly matters, because he wants to please his wife, and so he is pulled in two directions. An unmarried woman or a virgin concerns herself with the Lord's work, because she wants to be dedicated both in body and spirit, but a married woman concerns herself with worldly matters, because she wants to please her husband. I am saying this because I want to help you. I am not trying to put restrictions on you. Instead, I want you to do what is right and proper, and to give yourselves completely to the Lord's service without any reservation." (Cor 7:32-35)

Many key figures in the New Testament lived a single life, including St. Paul and Jesus Himself. Many Gospel writers also speak of a positive value in choosing to live a single (or celibate) life "for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven" (cf. Matt. 19:12).  It is also affirmed that there would be no marriage in the resurrection of the dead (cf. Mark 12:25).

Therefore, under the New Covenant, there is a wider acceptance of a single lifestyle within our Biblical tradition. This is especially highlighted when those who choose the single state do so in order to live more fully the demands of the Christian life.

Special Challenges Faced by Singles

"Turn to me, Lord, and be merciful to me, because I am lonely and weak. Relieve me of my worries and save me from all my troubles." (Psalm 25:16-17)

Single persons have a wide variety of experiences. For many, the single life is joy-filled and satisfying; for others, however, it can be a lonely and frightful prospect. Eating alone, approaching vacation and holiday times alone, coping with times of isolation and loneliness - all can be challenging experiences for the single.

Singles are often misjudged by others. They are frequently thought of as carefree or irresponsible and selfish (the "swinging singles"). Some may consider singles to be more financially stable than those who must support a spouse or family. At times, even their sexual orientation may be questioned.

All of these generalizations involve misconceptions that perpetuate the myths surrounding the single life. The fact is that most single persons shoulder responsibilities alone instead of sharing them with a spouse. Proportionately, singles pay more in taxes and for certain public services than do those who are married. Further, the desire for human intimacy (not to be equated with the genital expression of sexuality) often goes unfulfilled for the single.

Each person, married and single, needs love and affection. For those who marry there is a rightful expectation that love will be mutually given and received from one's spouse and family. The single person, however, must search for intimacy among friends. This experience of deep friendship becomes a source of great joy and consolation for singles, for it is in this friendship that one who is alone comes to know the love and care of God and of others.

Yet, for many who are single, life is difficult and often lonely. This loneliness is not limited to life in society; at times it spills over into the Christian community. The single person longs to find fulfillment with God and with others in the local church. Yet, at times, singles feel forgotten and neglected by their own faith community.

A Challenge to the Churches

"Singles want the church to recognize that they are as varied and unique in their gifts and needs as any other segment of society."

Churches benefit from the gifts and abilities of singles.  Many who are single volunteer their time and talents when others (with family responsibilities) may find it inconvenient or impossible to do so. Singles often provide good insights and unique perspectives to discussion or study groups. They invite us to widen our views and to see and appreciate diversity. Those called by God to remain single remind us of the priority that must exist in all our lives to be truly centered on the Lord and the things of the Lord.

Singles exist within all of our congregations. Their needs are sometimes unique and sometimes shared by those who are not single. Yet, as a specific segment of our churches, singles have often been neglected or their presence unintentionally devalued.

Many churches and congregations, singularly or cooperatively (especially in recent years), have initiated new programs and services to meet the needs of singles. Such programs are to be encouraged and developed, especially where they prove helpful to specific groups of singles (such as the widowed, divorced and separated, or young adults). In their preaching, teaching and counseling ministries, the churches should encourage and celebrate the unique possibilities available to those who are single. Singles bring their own talents and gifts, opportunities and skills, and often utilize them in unique ways.

In many of our churches, however, the traditional ministerial emphasis has all too often been toward those who are married ("couples") or toward families. Often those who are single, those who worship alone, feel isolated and lonely even within their own faith communities. This need not be.

The church, if it is to be truly representative of Jesus and His way of life, must be an inclusive community where all may find welcome and fulfillment. No one was excluded from the life of Jesus. He accepted and loved equally all who came to Him. Following His example, the churches must accept those who live a single life as they are, in their singleness, without viewing them as somehow "incomplete," "abnormal" or "marginal." The churches must consciously extend their ministry, service, concern, and outreach to those who are single by fully integrating them into the life of the church. All of us - single or married - form one Body and are together the one family of God.

Churches, as faith communities, must:

1. be attentive to the presence of singles within their congregations so that single persons will truly feel "at home" in their own churches;
2. develop (or continue) programs for singles to meet specific needs or desires as each local situation demands;
3. fully incorporate singles into the life of the church as leaders in ministry, education, parish programs and worship;
4. choose language that reflects the presence of singles. Terminology that unintentionally excludes singles ("family nights," "family picnics,"etc.) should be changed ("parish nights," "church picnics") to be all-inclusive;
5. pray for those who are single, remembering their needs and aloneness, especially during holiday and vacation times. We must raise the conscious awareness of others to their situation.

A Challenge to Singles

"And now I give you a new commandment. Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. If you have love for one another, then everyone will know that you are my disciples." (John 13:34-35)

One of the highest goals for the Christian is to be self-giving and not self-seeking or self-fulfilling. We are called to be "other"-centered. All of us - married and single - are asked to give of ourselves, our gifts, our talents and our resources to benefit others. None of us lives in total isolation.

For those who are single, one challenge is to reach out of their aloneness and become actively involved in the life of the church. Another challenge for singles is to use this time in their lives to deepen their own prayer life; to grow closer to the God who loves them unconditionally; and to be inwardly silent and reflective.

Living the single life presents unique opportunities, not only to come to know oneself better, or to come to know God in a more intimate way, but also to participate in a communal faith experience. Whether the single life is permanent or temporary, whether it is chosen freely or lived because of circumstance, it provides a unique context for inserting oneself into an extended family of faith.

The single life presents an opportunity to grow in relationships that are not exclusive. It presents an opportunity to be aware of and receptive to the presence and grace of God even in the midst of solitude. It presents an opportunity to cultivate not only an acceptance of singleness, but an appreciation and an affirmation of the gift that it can be.

God says, "It is not good for man to be alone" (Gen. 2:18). The value of the single life is expressed in the way one lives his or her singleness. Is it for self-gratification, or is it lived out of love for God and others? Is it for self-indulgence or for outreach and service? Is it an occasion to retreat into an even greater aloneness or does it afford more opportunity for discovering the true meaning of "community?" Is it a time to busy oneself with many externals or a time for deep prayer and reflection?

Singles must strive to incorporate themselves into the larger community of faith to which they belong. Gifts, joys, sorrows and challenges are meant to be shared. Together we form a single people, the one Body of Christ.  Each member is different and performs a diverse function of that Body. Without one member or another, the entire Body suffers and its work is diminished (cf. 1 Cor. 12:14-27).

We, therefore, challenge singles to take initiative in their own churches. Make your needs known. Take an active role in church life. Reach out to others, both single and married, and offer your talents in ministry, education or hospitality. Let us all work together to make our churches warm and welcoming places of worship and active ministry for all God's people.

Acknowledgments

We are grateful for the various publications offered by many of our denominations which address the topic of singles in the churches. Many of these publications were helpful to us in writing this statement. Some of the ideas in this statement were also inspired by Martha Niemann's The Single Life, A Christian Challenge, Liguori Publications (1986).

We encourage church members to utilize these and other publications issued by Christian authors and our denominations.

The Scriptural texts cited in this statement were taken from Today's English Version and the Revised Standard Version of the Bible.

Here's another good one:

Singles Need Church Care
Many churches across the country are starting to recognize the need for single-adult ministry, but there is still a long way to go.
by Ann-Margret Hovsepian

The evangelical community, faced increasingly with issues such as divorce, abortion, homosexuality and cohabitation, is working hard to uphold traditional family values—and well it should. The flip side of this is that single adult Christians often are left with the sense that they need to be married to be "okay."

… many churches are reluctant to begin single adult ministries … "The perception is that these are people with a lot of problems … ."

The challenge for churches today is to adopt a balanced biblical approach to marriage, one that emphasizes the importance of healthy relationships while also acknowledging—without being patronizing—that singleness is given as much value in the Bible. The Bible indicates that marriage is God's general will for human beings (see Genesis 2:18)but it also affirms the single life (1 Corinthians 7).

Many churches across the country are starting to recognize the need for single-adult ministry, but there is still a long way to go, according to the experts. Ruth Stockdale, executive director of Canadian Single Adult Ministry (formerly Single Adults Alive) in Oakville, Ont., says that churches are becoming more sensitive to the need for single-adult ministry. "It's beginning to be in [people's] thought processes," she said.

Experts Challenge Our Preconceptions About Singles

• Singleness is not a punishment (and marriage is not a reward or higher calling)

• Marriage is not the solution to a single person's problems.

• Not all singles are discontent or dissatisfied.

• Singles are not necessarily more self-centred than married people.

• Singles are not necessarily more sexually frustrated than married people.

• Singleness is not an indication of immaturity, deep emotional problems or something "wrong."

• Singles are not necessarily pre-occupied with finding a spouse.

• Singles don't necessarily have a lot of money.

• Singles don't necessarily have more time than married people.

• Singles can lead just as effectively as married people.

• Singles are not necessarily lonelier than married people.

• "Loneliness is a disease of our total society," says Stockdale.

• Singles are not "incomplete" without marriage.

• God will not necessarily give someone a mate as soon as he or she is content with being single.

• Singles will go wherever there is a spiritual body that recognizes their needs—and that may mean going outside of their own church or denomination.

Sam Moorcroft is 35, single and president of ChristianCafe.com, a Toronto-based Internet meeting place for Christian singles around the world. He says that churches in general are not ministering to single adults very well. "I have lived in Vancouver, London and Toronto. There are so many single Christians, and nothing organized for them. Fifty percent of adults in Canada and the United States are single or single again," he said. "That's a huge group, and many of them are not 21—they are 31, 41, 51." He says that churches often push singles toward meeting someone but don't have anything set up to enable that, and those that do don't usually cooperate with other churches. "To me, churches need to work together."

Al Saunders, national coordinator of adult ministries with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada in Mississauga, Ont., says he wishes all PAOC churches were involved in single-adult ministry. Only 13 percent (or 110 churches) are. "Those who are active in single-adult ministry are doing a great job. Apart from that, there isn't a lot of intentionality." He advises churches: "Have a look at Canada today and recognize the number of single adults and that this is a great mission field."

Saunders says that many churches are reluctant to begin single adult ministries because, basically, it's not easy. "Many of these people have been through divorce and have a lot of hurts. The perception is that these are people with a lot of problems. The truth is they don't have any more problems than anyone else." Saunders cautions against stereotypes and suggests that churches, more than anything, simply lack understanding of the needs of single adults.

Are some churches holding back because they fear that a single-adult ministry will turn out to be a singles "club" or a matchmaking opportunity? "Yes," Saunders answers. "If that's their thinking, then do away with youth groups," he says, pointing out that young people often end up pairing up and dating, and if churches don't have a problem with that, then there shouldn't be a problem with activities for single adults. Most single adults are not trying to find someone when they attend events anyway, he suggests, because so many of them have come out of painful relationships—they simply want fellowship with people who understand and care.

The PAOC is looking at a proposal for a Bible college course on single adult/single-parent ministry and has on hand statistics that seem to support the need for a greater emphasis on single-adult ministry among churches in Canada. Traditional nuclear families (biological parents and children) represent only 27 percent of families in Canada, and that figure is expected to drop to 20 percent this year. In contrast, 47 percent of families are blended (created primarily by divorce and remarriage), 14.5 percent are headed by a single parent and 11.5 percent are common-law (the last two figures are expected to rise by about three percent).

"Between 1995 and 1999 there has been an 18 percent increase in singles in Canada, compared to only a 10 percent increase in the general population," said Stockdale, referring to a May 2000 article in Macleans. "It has to do with the breakdown in families. [Role] modeling, security and confidence are being lost," she said. "Rather than go through that hurt, people are deciding to remain single."

Moorcroft says, "A lot of it has to do with society—divorce, abuse, adultery. Many people are single again … a whole group that was never there before." He points out that with a greater focus on education lately, people are getting married later than before. As well, many young people have been raised in dysfunctional families and have difficulty relating to the opposite sex and understanding the concept of family. Saunders says that many single adults "have come through homes broken by divorce. They're leery. They need relationships but are scared to make a commitment."

According to Stockdale, many singles feel marginalized and need acceptance. "A lot of them have lost their dream, or their spouse through death or divorce," she says. "They need healing." She says that divorced people are often not accepted in church and that "Christians need to be like Jesus with the woman at the well." She also points out that widows and widowers often lose the married community they were once a part of. "We have to recognize that singles' needs are no different than married people's needs. They need prayer, they need to serve, to be accountable and to have fellowship. They don't need a baby-sitter or to be felt sorry for," she says.

Another area that churches seem uncomfortable with is the whole idea of the sexuality of single adults. Church leaders prescribe celibacy for Christian singles with little discussion and little recognition that singles have as great a need for intimate relationships as anyone else. And because extra-marital sex almost seems to be regarded as an unforgivable sin, it is difficult for singles to go to their church and ask for help with their struggles. "There is no recognition by the Church that Christians have sexual drives," says Moorcroft, adding that churches need to deal with this issue.

There are a number of misconceptions about singleness that need to be confronted before effective single-adult ministry can happen. Singles are not "incomplete" without marriage, for example. "Two become one," says Moorcroft," but that doesn't mean you're lacking something if you're single. [Your partner] rounds you out but doesn't complete you. That person shouldn't fill the void in your life. You need to be complete first." There are many benefits to being single, the most obvious one perhaps being the freedom to come and go as one wishes. "You can do whatever you want on Saturday!" says Moorcroft. He adds that singles can "live in the present and enjoy the moment. There's no down side, really." Stockdale points to the opportunities to develop one's relationship with the Lord and to interact with many people. "You can serve in areas where you couldn't if you were married and had a family," she says.

Don't feel guilty about being single or not living up to societal standards.

Some tips for singles from Moorcroft: "Number one, turn to the Lord. He's the one who knows who your future mate is. You need to be inwardly focussed instead of having a shopping list. Use this as a time to prepare yourself. Recognize that there are a whole lot of others facing the same issues. Get out and participate in events—not primarily to meet someone, but simply to participate. If you come across as desperate, you will turn the other person off." Moorcroft adds that many singles need to develop their relational skills. "We hear that we need to do this, but we don't act." He also says that singles need to "bug" their churches about having a single-adult ministry and then get involved. "We go to organized events, but we don't' organize them."

Stockdale advises: "Don't feel guilty about being single or not living up to societal standards. Don't be consumed by worrying about the future—live each day to the fullest. Try to do something positive every day. Be honest all the time and feel comfortable about saying "no." Take responsibility for doing what's right for you. Get out of ruts; break out of routines. Don't allow others to define who you are."

To Saunders, the most important thing single adults can do is "concentrate on learning what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. Get involved in the life of a church that is focused on discipleship."

Singles can be happy, fulfilled and effective Christians if they are encouraged to celebrate the gifts God has given them and are accepted as an important part of their church families.