Diaggello

2012 Chai Tea Party Tour!

2011-12-01T09:44:00.001-05:00

Holler Ministries 2012 Chai Tea Party Tour!

January 4th – 1st Baptist, Taylorsville NC, 6:30pm
January 8th – Lake Cooley Baptist, Spartanburg SC, 6:30pm
January 11th – Church of the Nazerine, Hendersonville NC, 7pm
January 15th – Beverly Hills Baptist, Asheville NC, 6pm
January 18th – Lanier Hills, Gainseville GA, 6:30pm
January 19th – North Atlanta, Atlanta GA, 7pm
January 22nd – Church of Christ, Hendersonville NC, 5:30pm
January 25th – Pole Creek Baptist, Asheville NC, 6pm
January 29th – 1st United Methodist, Hendersonville NC, 6pm
February 1st – Feed and Seed, Fletcher NC, 6pm
February 4th – Vaghn House Fellowship, Greensboro NC, 6pm
February 8th – Powersville 1st Baptist, Spartanburg SC, 7pm
February 15th – Grace Baptist Church, Asheville NC, 5:45pm

baby lily is here!

2011-09-11T14:56:00.002-05:00

Labor from 1:20am to 8:40am and she's here safe and sound!

9 Ibs and 2 oz!

pics here.

I'm the jerk

2011-09-10T13:47:00.005-05:00

I've been running for 20 years. Physically. I've ran in the sun, snow and rain. I've seen bears, beavers, horseback riders and snakes. I've been chased by geese and turkeys. I've ran too far and on other days couldn't get past the warm up. Today, I tripped 4 times and fell twice... hard. I've quit for years to mountain board and months to do a market garden. I always return. I rarely ever want to run, but in the midst of it I know why I'm there. I pray.

Today I recalled a race I ran several months ago. I won, but I lost. I often run competitively, but rarely set out to win. There's always that one guy that shows up and kills everyone. Most every one's just out to have a good time and finish. But this guy... he trains, has all the gear, and warms up. I wear my swimming shorts and several other competitors have bellies.

This particular race was small and I had a hunch that I might could win. My oldest son got excited and wanted to run. Momma said I would have to run with him if he entered. He hadn't trained (this was a 3 mile race), he was being discontent and overly excited, and besides... I could win this.

As I approached the line to start, so did Mr. Benson... and his 7 year old. I felt right then that I had made a mistake. What was I running for?

I won. Mr. Benson and his daughter lost... bad. Although they came in dead last, Mr. Benson won. If there was a prize I might have handed it over.

I can be very competitive in much that I do. Often, I can feel it creeping into my walk after Christ. I want to win, I want to be the greatest in His Kingdom. There was an apostle who wanted to be the best too. Christ told him how...

Lose...

"“Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 18:3-4"

Photo Book

2011-08-10T12:51:00.000-05:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

Is it a boy or a girl?

2011-05-15T20:58:00.004-05:00

A few weeks ago we went to our ultra sound appointment to check on the baby. Evertyhing looked great and the baby was very active. However, the doctor regreteably pointed out that Mamma had placenta aprevia. Momma immediatly cried. I had no idea what this meant, so I asked if the baby would be ok. Momma and the baby would be fine, but this would mean a automatic C-section.

The Dr. said that we could come back in a couple of weeks to see if anything would change, but he said we basically had no hope.

Rebekah started praying. Our midwife started praying. Then the Dr. said it was a girl! Then the Dr. went hum.. hum... Then he hesitated, and said with puzzlment... the placenta is in it's appropriate possition. Praise the Lord. I believe He must have been showing off a bit.

And so we named her... Lillie Hope Rhodes!

Life is what happens.

2011-03-25T20:29:00.007-05:00

Just 3 and a half years ago Rebekah and I were childless. Now we have 5! Life's been a bit crazy lately, hence the slowing down of the blogs. You can see from the last post that Momma's pregnant. In addition, we've officially adopted 2 as of March 2nd!

We didn't know what we were getting into to, but who does when they have kids?

Suddenly we have a 9 year old. Suddenly we have daily appointments. Suddenly we have children who can walk and talk, but have barely been trained in how to behave. Suddenly our time and money and energy are maxed. It all happened rather quickly. From the moment we started to foster these boys, they had our last name in less than 10 months.

Now, more than ever have we adjusted our lives. In order of importance: God, spouse, children, brotherhood and the world. Before we covered all those bases somewhat evenly. Now, there's more ministry to be had closer to "home". It's been quite the adjustment for us as we've always been so outreach oriented. We're still adjusting and accepting that our outreach is just 10 ft away from our own beds.

Now, we struggle to cover the Lord, each other and our children. With the morsels that are left we encourage the brotherhood and attempt a Gospel proclamation. It's an interesting season in our lives, I know. Perhaps it's a time of investment to future world changers.

I'll always be encouraged by a comment my dear friend Will Tucker made to me. He encouraged me not to sweat about camp as much, and said, "you got your camp right here" and he motioned to my 4 boys running on ahead of us. Ain't that the truth. We get caught up looking for something different, something bigger, something "great" and we miss the opportunity right in front of us.

It reminds me of a line in a song, "life is what happens when we're busy making other plans." I've got to lighten up a bit. Take some pressure off and enjoy the ride.

There's a quiver full!

2011-02-26T11:01:00.004-05:00

I heard somewhere that 5 is a full quiver. Since a quiver full of children is a blessing to a man, then I'm overflowing with joy!

Rebekah is pregnant, and we're absolutely thrilled! Estimated due date is September
9th. We just heard the heart beat for the 1st time on Thursday, and all is going well.

With Jonah, Momma was tired. With Josiah, Momma was tired and nauseous. Now, Momma is tired, nauseous and emotional. Maybe that's a sign? Could it be? A girl? Everyone seems to be praying that way for us, including ourselves. Maybe it's because we have 4 boys already. We'll be happy with whatever, but we are most definitely finding out ASAP. The Lord knows our needs before we even ask. Can't help desiring a bit more femininity though. It's a rough and tumble world out here in Burl Holler!

Jesus proclaiming me.

2011-02-23T22:31:00.003-05:00

I feel like I can see it. I see Jesus proclaiming me to His angels! I doubt this a divine vision because I see the long haired, Anglo-Saxon Jesus and I believe these angels have wings? That day dream just doesn't match up with reality. What I do know is that if I proclaim Jesus down here, He'll proclaim me up there. This option seems so sweet...the other option, not so nice.

I don't want to be that one who glimpses heaven with God's chosen people and prophets, then be cast out to the lake of fire. There are few who make it, so I'm going to humble myself and strive in zealous repentance. It's a dire and urgent "repent or die" situation.

I'm sprinting away from my evil "old man" and I'm striving to do good. I'm running after the healer, miracle worker and traveling preacher, till finally I'm at that grand international, inter time zone dinner where we're all feasting with the King!

I'm coming to your house.

2011-02-09T21:30:00.002-05:00

You all remember that childhood song:

Zacchaeus was a wee little man, and a wee little man was he.
He climbed up in a sycamore tree, for the Lord he wanted to see.
And as the Savior passed him by, He looked up in the tree,
And he said, "Zacchaeus, you come down;
For I'm going to your house today,
For I'm going to your house today.

I think it's missing an ending though. How about:

And on the way, Zacchaeus said,
I'm selling half I got.
And those I've wronged I'll give a lot,
Cuz I am changed you see.
Salvation's come to me.
Salvation's come to me.

Last night I put my name into the story instead of Zacchaeus and what I realized was that Christ was coming to my house, unplanned! I thought, was Zacchaeus ready? I'll admit, I suspected. Is that why Zacchaeus stopped along the way and declared a yard sale and a payback time? Was he ashamed of what Christ would find? I doubt it. The story seems to bleed heart change and joy in the giving. It just made me think.

Would I be ready if Christ was coming to my house today? Would I be embarrassed of anything? What kind of promises might I make along the way? Then, I thought. Jesus is in my house today! It just helps to actually imagine that every once in a while. Yeah, yeah, He'll never leave us or forsake us, but I'm afraid that just becomes a cute Bible verse or an encouragement in time of trouble. Richard Wormbrant used to pray and talk with Jesus like He was sitting in the chair across from Him. Maybe it's a reality check that we all need.

Imagine Jesus Christ is coming to YOUR house today!

A time for prayer.

2011-01-31T22:50:00.004-05:00

I'm a child in an intense training session. God's showing me my inner strength (or lack thereof) as I see my limits in the fruits of the Spirit: Love, joy, peace, patience....

Then I read Luke 18. We're to always be praying! George Muller would say, "I walk in a spirit of prayer, and see the answers coming all the time". I don't know why I didn't get this "memo" a long time ago, but it's liberating to live in a spirit of prayer.

There's a lot to christian living to remember: Be patient, pray for those that mistreat you, love your enemy etc... However, if we could just remember one thing. Pray all the time... I believe the christian character would more naturally flow.

I thought of Ecclesiastes and how there's different times for certain things:

A time to give birth and a time to die;
A time to plant and a time to uproot what is planted.
A time to kill and a time to heal;
A time to tear down and a time to build up.
A time to weep and a time to laugh;
A time to mourn and a time to dance.
A time to throw stones and a time to gather stones;
A time to embrace and a time to shun embracing.
A time to search and a time to give up as lost;
A time to keep and a time to throw away.
A time to tear apart and a time to sew together;
A time to be silent and a time to speak.
A time to love and a time to hate;
A time for war and a time for peace.

Then I thought of Christ in Luke 18 and I thought we could ad to this Ecclesiastical poem, "A time for prayer and a time for prayer"

It's always time for prayer!

Discipleship is free, but costs everything!

2011-01-20T23:20:00.003-05:00

God has most graciously offered me eternal life! At the same time, He's commanded me to believe and become a disciple of Christ. He asks us to 1st think about what it's going to cost to follow Jesus. According to Luke 14 a disciple must love Christ more than friends and family, a disciple will be killing sin daily and a disciple will give up ALL his possessions (including his own life) for the sake of God's Kingdom.

Could it be that God's offering this eternal life, should I choose to accept it? I often think of it as a beautifully wrapped package falling from the sky. It's a gift from God, it's eternal life. Am I willing to open it? Accept it? Inside, it seems, is a cross to carry, shoes to follow Him in, armor to battle new enemies and of course, all the spiritual blessing of son ship! Will I open it? Will I actually use the gift?

The offer of discipleship of eternal life is free, and I've done nothing to deserve it. But am I willing to accept it? Do I want it? Am I willing to pay the price? Are you?

As we think about giving Christ our all, set some items before you: A photo of your dearest family. An object of your favorite pastime. An outfit representing your work. A book representing your studies. Your check book. Your ministry. Put down your TV, computer and cell phone. Ad your pillow. Now ad your Bible to collection and allow it to represent the word of God, the love of God, the value of God.

Seeing it all together. What do you really value the most? Why? What needs to change? Where is all your time going? Energy? Money? Just look at all the stuff and let the Holy Spirit speak.

Struggle.

2011-01-09T22:14:00.004-05:00

I used the word "struggle" with Rebekah tonight during our regular evening conversations. Understandably so, she took it differently than I meant it and a passionate discussion followed.

After reading the above sentence each of you readers have a different interpretation of what really went down. It's a matter of communication and understanding, and everyone sees and hears things differently.

This was yet another reminder for me to watch my words. My eldest son repeating a silly phrase 25 times which was yet another painful reminder to be careful with this wild beast of a tongue. It's truly very hard to contain.

With 4 small children I have to begin training them how to use (or not use) their tongue. That training though, ends up pointing 3 fingers back at me.

I've been influenced by two wise sayings, coming from two wise women. The 1st being my wife, in which she wrote, "speak less, edify more" on our chalkboard. It stood as a seasonal reminder of one of the most difficult tasks of the human race. The 2nd influence being Ann Voskamp of A Holy Experience in which she wrote "Only Speak words that make souls stronger"

The later saying has been ringing in my head as of late. It kind of goes along with the ol', "don't say anything if you don't have anything nice to say". What happened to that? Well, hard work is what happened to it. It's extremely difficult to train this tongue.

I believe the benefits of tongue training far outweigh the costs, or else I wouldn't try. last night I was reminded in Luke 12 that EVERYTHING we say in secret will one day announced on roof tops. Everything we say will one day be made public! We're going to be held accountable for our every word (and action, for that matter).

Rebekah had an interesting dream last night. She dreamed she was watching a TV news report that was going on in front of our local target. She then saw me in the background walking into the store carrying Josiah. No big deal, right? Right! Unless I was talking or acting inappropriately with Josiah. Then, it would be embarrassing. Well folks, it's like we got a mic on, or better yet we're on "Ed TV". Wasn't that the movie where the camera was on him 24/7? However, this reality show is for real. The camera's are rolling, the mics are never ending and we're being recorded!

I pray this is enough motivation to knock the hypocrisy out of our lives to walk blamelessly before our Lord who's eyes are in every place! Lord help me.

What's up with Baptism?

2010-12-13T14:35:00.004-05:00

Do you dunk? Do you sprinkle? Do you baptize infants? Is baptism part of salvation? How soon should someone get baptised after conversion? What does it mean? Where did it come from? Or, do I get baptised twice?

I've actually been baptised 3 times. Once, while I was in the womb (my mom got baptised when she was pregnant with me), secondly at a young age following some prayer and a church custom and finally as an adult hoping for a true and meaningful experience.

Regardless of all these questions it's an exciting event for Christians. I had the privilege of baptizing our brother Brackin during Saturday's barn church! Brackin had also been baptized as a child as well, but I believe he was looking to obey through an experience that he now understood and truly desired.

Depraved Indifference

2010-12-05T12:08:00.000-05:00

Center Figure.

2010-12-02T22:07:00.005-05:00

Think back to when you were 8. Imagine it's your birthday celebration and all your friends are there. Now it's time to open gifts so everybody begins exchanging presents with each other. Did you catch that? Yeah, they exchange gifts for each other. You get nothing accept a speech about how good you are, and they sing a few songs praising your birth. How would that make you feel?

Well... it's what most of America do on a day set aside to celebrate Christs birth. Interesting enough, America also has a pretty standard birthday procedure, so how did we get so far away from the birth day tradition when it comes to Jesus?

I once heard a dad ask his daughter what she could get Jesus for his birthday. She cutely replied, "my heart" and then the family partook in the average (if not above average) $780 spending on each other! How do you think that little girl would like getting hearts from her friends and family on her birthday, but nothing else? Now, I'm all about giving up our hearts, but it takes action to truly give ourselves away. It's not just verbal. It takes all of our time, money and energies.

Now God's not 8, so He's not pitching any fits if you don't get Him anything. He doesn't need you or your gifts (Acts 17:25). He does want you, however (1 Tim 2:4). He wants you to give unto Him. But He's looking for everyday to be His birthday celebration. You know, treat Him like it's His birthday...everyday. Praise Him, spend time with Him, get to know Him better, give Him something. He does want gifts or He wouldn't have commanded us to give to Him.

Here's the Diagello, the proclamation of some good news. You can get Jesus something tangible for His birthday! Quit being Santa for each other and your children and start being Santa for Christ. Take Him on your lap in the form of your Bible's Gospel's and ask "what do you want?". No lie, He'll reply. Probably in red letters. Here's a few things He asked of me tonight: pray for those who mistreat me, give to everyone who asks and treat others the way I want to be treated (Luke 6).

I'll help jump start your new Christmas mission. Give to Jesus. Give tangible. Let Christmas day be a launching pad for how you'll live the rest of your life. Give to the least of these. If you don't know how, ask your kids, they're full of faith. I asked my 8 year old tonight, "what should we do for Jesus this Christmas" (you might have to inform them that caring for poor people is caring from Christ). Without a hesitation He said, "feed the hommies". That's his way of saying, "let's help Burton with the weekly homeless feed in Asheville". So hommies it is this year. We'll be giving Christ a warm meal on a cold day. Maybe we'll even mix up some fudge to pass around.

Advent Conspiracy.

2010-12-01T21:19:00.000-05:00

Re-think this time of year.

the Richest Family in Church.

2010-11-30T21:15:00.001-05:00

Rebekah came across this story on another blog. Simply, a must read:

I'll never forget the Easter of 1946. I was 14, my little sister Ocy was 12, and my older sister Darlene was 16. We lived at home with our mother, and the four of us knew what it was to do without many things. My dad had died 5 years before, leaving Mom with seven children to raise and no money. By 1946, my older sisters were married and my brothers had left home.

A month before Easter, the pastor of our church announced that a special Easter offering would be taken to help a poor family. He asked everyone to save and give sacrificially. When we got home, we talked about what we could do. We decided to buy 50 pounds of potatoes and live on them for a month. This would allow us to save $20 of our grocery money for the offering. Then we thought that if we kept our electric lights turned out as much as possible and didn't listen to the radio, we'd save money on that month's electric bill.

Darlene got as many house and yard cleaning jobs as possible, and both of us baby sat for everyone we could. For 15 cents, we could buy enough cotton loops to make three potholders to sell for $1. We made $20 on potholders. That month was one of the best of our lives. Every day we counted the money to see how much we had saved. At night we'd sit in the dark and talk about how the poor family was going to enjoy having the money the church would give them. We had about 80 people in church, so we figured that whatever amount of money we had to give, the offering would surely be 20 times that much. After all, every Sunday the Pastor had reminded everyone to save for the sacrificial offering.

The day before Easter, Ocy and I walked to the grocery store and got the manager to give us three crisp $20 bills and one $10 bill for all our change. We ran all the way home to show Mom and Darlene. We had never had so much money before. That night we were so excited we could hardly sleep. We didn't care that we wouldn't have new clothes for Easter; we had $70 for the sacrificial offering. We could hardly wait to get to church!

On Sunday morning, rain was pouring. We didn't own an umbrella, and the church was over a mile from our home, but it didn't seem to matter how wet we got. Darlene had cardboard in her shoes to fill the holes. The cardboard came apart, and her feet got wet. But we sat in church proudly. I heard some teenagers talking about the Smith girls having on their old dresses. I looked at them in their new clothes, and I felt so rich.

When the sacrificial offering was taken, we were sitting on the second row from the front. Mom put in the $10 bill, and each of us girls put in a $20 bill.

As we walked home after church, we sang all the way. At lunch Mom had a surprise for us. She had bought a dozen eggs, and we had boiled Easter eggs with our fried potatoes!

Late that afternoon, the minister drove up in his car. Mom went to the door, talked with him for a moment, and then came back with an envelope in her hand. We asked what it was, but she didn't say a word. She opened the envelope and out fell a bunch of money. There were three crisp $20 bills, one $10 and seventeen $1 bills. Mom put the money back in the envelope. We didn't talk, just sat and stared at the floor. We had gone from feeling like millionaires to feeling like poor white trash.

We kids had had such a happy life that we felt sorry for anyone who didn't have our mom and dad for parents and a house full of brothers and sisters and other kids visiting constantly. We thought it was fun to share silverware and see whether we got the fork or the spoon that night. We had two knives, which we passed around to whoever needed them.

I knew we didn't have a lot of things that other people had, but I'd never thought we were poor. That Easter Day I found out we were. The minister had brought us the money for the poor family, so we must be poor. I didn't like being poor. I looked at my dress and worn-out shoes and felt so ashamed that I didn't want to go back to church.

Everyone there probably already knew we were poor! I thought about school. I was in the ninth grade and at the top of my class of over 100 students. I wondered if the kids at school knew we were poor. I decided I could quit school since I had finished the eighth grade. That was all the law required at that time.

We sat in silence for a long time. Then it got dark, and we went to bed. All that week, we girls went to school and came home, and no one talked much. Finally on Saturday, Mom asked us what we wanted to do with the money. What did poor people do with money? We didn't know. We'd never known we were poor.

We didn't want to go to church on Sunday, but Mom said we had to. Although it was a sunny day, we didn't talk on the way. Mom started to sing, but no one joined in and she only sang one verse. At church, we had a missionary speaker. He talked about how churches in Africa made buildings out of sun-dried bricks, but they need money to buy roofs. He said $100 would put a roof on a church. The minister said, "Can't we all sacrifice to help these poor people?"

We looked at each other and smiled for the first time in a week. Mom reached into her purse and pulled out the envelope. She passed it to Darlene.

Darlene gave it to me, and I handed it to Ocy. Ocy put it in the offering. When the offering was counted, the minister announced that it was a little over $100. The missionary was excited. He hadn't expected such a large offering from our small church.

He said, "You must have some rich people in this church!"

Suddenly it struck us! We had given $87 of that "little over $100." We were the rich family in the church! Hadn't the missionary said so? From that day on, I've never been poor again.

God's gonna do it!

2010-11-27T21:50:00.000-05:00

"He spoke to me in the voice so sweet
I thought, I heard the shuffle of the angel's feet
He called my name and my heart stood still
When he said, "John, go do my will"

Go tell that long tongue liar, go and tell that midnight rider
Tell the rambler, the gambler, the back biter
Tell 'em that God's gonna cut 'em down
Tell 'em that God's gonna cut 'em down" - Johnny Cash's, God's Gonna Cut You Down

Johnny Cash and John the Baptist had a similar calling in life. They both brought the same warning message:

"every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire." - John the Baptist

"Tell (the sinner) that God's gonna cut 'em down" - Johnny Cash

What's alarming to me, given the "christian" culture I grew up in, is the person who's doing all the cutting down and throwing into the fire. I guess I always thought it was that mean ol' devil. You know, the red man with the horns and cape. Nope, I couldn't have been more wrong:

"Indeed the axe is already laid at the root of the trees; so every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire."

"John answered and said to them all, 'As for me, I baptize you with water; but One is coming who is mightier than I, and I am not fit to untie the thong of His sandals; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in His hand to thoroughly clear His threshing floor, and to gather the wheat into His barn; but He will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire.'" Luke 3

John's talking about Jesus Christ Himself! It's Christ who wields the ax and carries the winnowing fork! He's clearing the floor and gathering the wheat into His storehouse and casting the sinners into the fire!

It's by His hands that we are either saved or destroyed.

Here's another song by Cash that reiterates the same point. "When the Man Comes Around"

Holler Mission Camp Goals 2011!

2010-11-15T08:29:00.000-05:00

I'll admit, 2 months ago I was rather uncertain about the future of Holler Ministries. I guess that was a good spot to be in because we can never really be certain of anything, except Christ's unchanging nature.

Literally, everyone was leaving the Holler accept us. For the 1st time in 3 years Rebekah and I would be alone in this work. The tasks at hand seemed so daunting, I wasn't sure what would succeed. One day I ask Brackin, who has 5 years of camp experience, "how do I promote the camp?" He replied with a list of wonderful ideas that would likely work, but each idea seemed to be another nail in the coffin. There was no way I could possibly do all of this... alone.

Later I found out that Brackins heart went out to me in that moment and it was an event that helped confirm his coming back. Now he, his family and the Salthouses are coming back. Brackin has already begun to work on camp part time and will take on full time responsibilities in the new year.

We're focusing on one style of camp this year, mission camp. We've come up with an updated mission statement 4 goals to help communicate the vision:

Mission: To be a youth mission's camp with a community atmosphere for Christ-like discipleship. Young people will be challenged from the Word of God and taught how to live it through mission simulations, service projects, worship and simple recreation.

Goals:

Christ: Explore what it means to be a disciple and to make disciples of Christ.

Church: Examine your role as a participant in Christ's body, the church.

Culture: Experience international cultures and languages to increase your ability to engage in missions.

Compassion: Embrace God's heart for the poor and nurture compassion for the impoverished.

Ever wonder?

2010-11-14T07:13:00.002-05:00

On Thursday we hosted 2 "volunteers" through a local project that helps young people work off community service hours assigned by the court.

Right away I could tell it was going to be challenging as they barely introduced themselves and seemed extremely mad at the world and unexcited to be here. So... I shared the Holler story, that included my testimony, to their friendly leader. I doubt they were listening.

We started the working day by covering the African hut for the winter. It seemed that both guys were having an ok time. One of them was even beginning to open up a bit. Then, I overhead a troubling conversation.

The young man was requesting that the rest of his hours be worked off at the Goodwill. After the leader declined the requested the young man grumbled, "I want to do some real community service, and not just work on some guys camp".

Ouch... At 1st my thoughts were defiant, "did you not hear me? We train young people to be more loving wherever they are? This is a FREE camp, and we give away much of this food that we grow in the garden!" I wanted to send him on his way.

Later, I was challenged by the comment and held accountable to this not becoming all about me. I think it served as a good reality check and helps me to continually ask, "Lord, what do you want me to do?" This isn't about me, but the God who made me. I would absolutely HATE to waste anyone's time, energy or money on some project for me!

The young man, clearly misunderstood, or was more likely expressing authority defiance. He actually warmed up by the end when we let them mountainboard. Anyway, it was a good challenge.

Happy Reformation Day!

2010-10-31T11:44:00.003-05:00

It's the day we celebrate the Reformation. Thanks to God's work through Martin Luther the "common" people began to receive the word of God in their own language and were dared to commune directly with the Father Himself. He dared to believe the word of God and go against the grain of tradition when necessary.

It's a difficult place to be. I can remember my early days as a babe in Christ. I would read the "black" letters of God and the "red" letters of Jesus and they just weren't matching up with the blue letters of commentaries. I dare us all to throw out the blue letters that don't match up with the solid words of God. Let the Holy Spirit lead and interpret. Let us dare to go against the grain, even if it's the church we always knew.

Why He happened?

2010-10-27T19:51:00.004-05:00

Christ happened because of the tender Mercy of our God (Luke 1:78)! Zacharias describes the Christ as the "Sunrise from on high", and declares that He will visit us!

He's going to shine on those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death. Yeah though I walk through the shadow of death, I will fear no evil. It's a sinful place, this shadow of death. The Sunrise is exposing the darkness that are sinners. You can't run from this sun, it's shines on EVERYONE! Death valley is getting lit up!

The Sunrise is coming to guide our feet into the way of peace. It's a classic picture of repentance. Expose our sin and lead us out of it. A turn from evil and a turn to good. I'm bored...and exposed. Thank God He gives us something else to do. Seek peace and pursue it! Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall inherit the earth. What about that song, "shine Jesus shine..." Well... we don't have to tell Christ to do anything. He's the Sunrise! We revolve around Him, not the other way around.

There is something interesting about a Sunrise though. It doesn't last forever. The light does move and actually goes away fairly quickly. Christ is moving and guiding Sinners into peace. We must take our chance and follow the light while He's still around. Despite all the fairy tales, He doesn't wait around. It's going to get dark again, and there may be no tomorrow.

Man of Peace.

2010-10-24T13:50:00.003-05:00

In Luke 10 we have a unique mission for 72 followers of Christ. You all know how it goes. They take nothing with them, their instructed to preach the Gospel and heal people, and they're supposed to stay with the man of peace...

The man on the "other side" of the story. You know, the host. We have allot of text on the great missionary send outs, the journeys, the preaching of the Gospels, the heeling's, but I'm curious about the man of peace.

What about Philemon? The guy who hosted the church in his house. What about all the people who housed Christ, His apostles, Paul and all the other who followed that nomadic pursuit? You know Zacheous... He sold half of his possession... not his house. What did his life look like after that? Who else did Mary and Martha serve? What about the Centurion? He wasn't called out of the military, so how did he conduct his 100 solders after that encounter with the Christ?

So often I dream of the 72. You know... being a radical, abandon all, type of missionary. A Katie. A Bruchko. An Amy.

This weekend, a reality set in. At least for this flashing moment of my life, I'm a man of peace. Last night we hosted a wild eyed, messed up hair, radical, Jesus loving group. The "old schoolers" from Camp Snowbird crashed in our loft. They spent all day Saturday witnessing on the streets of Asheville. We warmed them up this morning by the fire, fed them breakfast and prayed them off to another day of fishing for men!

The man of peace... It's a great ministry for the young family. Ministry projects are quite limited with a 1 year old, 3 yr old, 4 yr old and an 8 yr old. There really is only so much you can do. But, how great it is to have our family bless other missionaries during this time of our life. Although it doesn't make the front lines of Scripture, it's definitely a backbone in the logistics of getting the Gospel proclaimed!

Middle ground

2010-10-17T14:28:00.003-05:00

Do you ever feel like your stuck in the middle? Or even worse, as Francis Chan would say, lukewarm and loving it?

If you throw a frog in boiling water he'll jump out immediately. If you put him in warm water and slowly turn up the heat, he'll eventually die. In a rich and Gospel penetrated land, I think we must be on our guard for water temperatures rising.

There seems to be this middle ground where we blend in and we get relatively comfortable. You're not hot, you're not cold, you're lukewarm. You're going to get spit out.

Here's an amazing blog post similar to this issue: When You're Dying to Live Radical: Fight the Middle Ground

I feel burdened for those on middle ground and have come to realize that I must go to the middle in order to bring others up. There's an extreme danger in this kind of ministry though. At the middle ground everything is politically correct, comfortable, secure and maybe even enjoyable or sensible. It's hard not to get sucked in yourself. It's like rescuing someone from quicksand. You have to go there to get them out, you just can't go in after them. You have to extend help from the solid rock.

Walking on Water...

2010-10-11T20:24:00.005-05:00

While on our way to Orphanage Emmanuel for our 3 month mission in 2006, Mommy Lydia said something that I'll never forget...

"You've only just begun to walk on water!"

In context, this comment came after giving her our testimony. It's common that I reflect on this truth as we get tumbled through the highs and lows of stepping out on faith to live for the Lord.

It's weird, I've seen so much provision over the last 3 years that you think I would get used to it. You'd think I'd quit being anxious when finances are low. Maybe I need to be more often low on my knees in prayer.

Just the other day our friends, the Runks prayed for workers to come along side Rebekah and I as we labor in this harvest of Western NC. The two other families at the Holler were on their way out indefinitely to Black Mountain, NC. For the 1st time in 3 years Rebekah and I would be alone at this outpost. The very next day our friends came to us with a request to come back in the spring! That was not on their earlier agenda! We were thrilled!

In a related story of provision, someone gave over $1,600 dollars to our personal ministry. We didn't know it at the time, but every bit of it was needed to pay school (for our son) and utilities that were due. I couldn't wait to tell Rebekah. I asked her how it felt to walk on water. At that time, it felt great. When we enrolled our foster son into the local Christian school, he asked how we were going to pay for this. I told him that we counted on the Lord for provision. It's the classic, "where He guides, He provides". For us there was no alternative. We insisted on Christian education (we couldn't homeschool yet) and we didn't really have the money. It seemed, we'd been walking on water long enough that we knew God would come through. I'm very greatful the Lord hasn't made a fool of me or Himself.

In a disciples water walk, I believe it's on wavy, windy conditions. There are highs and lows. Time of strong faith and times of despair. I think it's the downs, that make the ups so good. I think it's the downs that strengthens our faith and the ups and that sets our hearts on fire.

I'm done.

2010-09-29T21:02:00.004-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I got the privilege to preach for the Montreat chapel! It was a kick off, of sorts, for the weekend service retreat out here at the Holler.

I opened with, "I'm done". I had to confess and testify. Not 2 hours earlier I really was emotionally done with ministry. Rebekah and I had gotten into a disagreement and I failed to love God and and people (in this case my wife) with the way I responded.

I laid in the bed, done. I wasn't going to preach. In fact, I wasn't even going to inform the chaplain. It would be too hypocritical of me to preach on loving God and people, after being such a baby earlier that morning.

In just moments the peace of God came over me. I realized that I had been caught up in this event that I had forgotten to place my wife in her proper place of priority. I quickly apologized and all was well.

Somewhere between being done and the moment before I would speak I realized something. I AM NOT A HYPOCRITE! I'm a child of God!!! Father placed all my sins on Christ thousands of years ago and crushed them to smithereens! Since I've been adopted as His child, my sins are gone. I've been set free! Amazing grace.

I was confessing my sin of hypocrisy because the Bible tells us that if we confess, we will be healed. At the same time I was testifying about God's amazing grace. I was preaching on the fact that eternal life is found in loving God and people. It's true. Christ said it. It's in RED!. We must love God and people in order to live.

I had to testify because I was walking in His grace. As a child of God we're instructed not to sin, but if we do, The Epistle of John assures us that we have an advocate speaking to the Father in our defense. When Christ's defense renders useless before a righteous judge, He Himself satisfies God's wrath by taking the punishment for us. Now, that's amazing Grace!

P.S. This is by no means a license to sin. May it never be!!! We ought not be comfortable in sin. I believe that's why the Holy Spirit convicted me of the hypocrisy. By no means should we temp sin or, God forbid, live in it.

Luke 10 Missions.

2010-09-13T21:11:00.002-05:00

After reading about the infamous sending out of the 70 in Luke 10 I began to wonder if there were any missions built around that model. If you don't know, Jesus sends 70 of his followers 2 by 2 to go before Him to Jerusalem. They were instructed to travel from city to city without greeting anyone along the way. Once they reached a city, they would find the man of peace (someone who would welcome them) and they would receive room and board while preaching the kingdom of God's arrival and heal people! If they weren't welcomed in a city, they would dust their feet in protest and move on. Oh... I forgot to mention that they took NOTHING with them but the clothes on their back. No purse (or wallet), no Bible, no journal, no extra clothing, no nothing. God would provide.

I understand that this was a special instance of a commissioned missionary journey by Jesus, but what would be wrong with applying it today? There's thousands of missions agencies and all kinds of missions models, so what's wrong with the Luke 10 model? Is anyone doing it now?

I searched the web for a radical. I thought maybe some Luke 10 missionary would be updated their blog during they stay with the man of peace. I didn't quite find such a sojourner, but I did find a few close experiments:

Here's a mission agency that trains 70 young people to go out for 3-9 months at a time into the unreached part of the world!

Below is a news interview with a college student who spent his spring break on a Luke 10 mission:

Interesting.

Rejoice!

2010-09-08T20:52:00.003-05:00

In Luke 10 the 70 disciples come back to Jesus from their successful missionary journey. They're excited about all that they accomplished. In fact, they were so successful, Christ saw Satan fall from the sky like lightning! Do you remember what He said to them? This is crazy folks. In similar words He said, "Don't rejoice in that. Rejoice that your name is written in the book of life." Really!? I can't understand the excitement found in staring in God's great book of life, but can't we get excited about ministry success? Not this time.

This has given me comfort in a culture of success. Even in ministry there's a HUGE pressure for numbers and change. It seems like Christ is telling me, relax. YOUR SAVED!

On my way to speak to Montreat's mission group MCaim tonight, I asked my oldest son, "What's your one wish?", to which he replied, "That my name would be written in the book of life". WOW! Now, let's be realistic. Is that one of our deepest desires? Salvation should be the source of our joy.

Interesting enough, the ever famous "Rejoice in the Lord Always, again I say rejoice" follows a statement proclaiming some specific believers spot in the lambs book of life. That's the context of our very primary verse commanding us to rejoice. It should come at no surprise that salvation is the very motivation for rejoicing evermore.

How then should we act?

2010-09-06T21:26:00.002-05:00

"Yesterday I was nine, today I'm 45, and tomorrow I'll die. How then should we act?" - Paul Washer

"For just as the lightning comes from the east and flashes even to the west, so will the coming of the Son of Man be." Matt 24:27

Hand full of arrows!

2010-09-05T13:27:00.002-05:00

There's our 4 boys, courtesy of VanPortFleet photography! Almost every time we go out someone says, "4 boys huh? That's a hand full!" To which we reply, "A handful of blessings!" They are a handful, but it's not like most people think. They're not a curse, they're a blessing.

The Bible says that children are a gift of God. They are like arrows in the hands of a warrior! How blessed is the man who's quiver is full of them, and I strongly believe that.

That could be Mommy!

2010-09-04T21:29:00.004-05:00

The other night as I was waiting outside the grocery store for Momma Rhodes, Mommy Lydia walked out of the store! Well... it wasn't Mommy Lydia, of course, but it was someone who definitely reminded me of her. For those of you don't know Mommy is the co-founder of Orphanage Emmanuel Honduras. She and her husband answered God's call to care for the orphans of Honduras over 20 years ago. They sold all that they had in exchange for a life on horse back evangelism while in search for orphanage start um. Today, they're the proud parents of more than 300 fatherless children. That's nearly a thousand meals a day folks!

They've lost so much in this life, but they've gained that much more. As I saw this lady walking out of the grocery store my heart was deeply troubled. I almost teared up. My initial thoughts... "That could be Mommy". What if Mommy and Poppy hadn't responded to God's call? What if they would have listened to all the dissenters? What if they had valued their house, car, securities and comfort over God's desires and the hurting of Honduras? What if Mommy and Poppy had chosen normalcy? They could be this lady walking out of the store all alone at 10:30pm.

Now, I mustn't judge. I didn't know this lady and she may be living the "lost" life that Christ commands of His followers. However, I felt she represented something... something very normal. She seemed to represent the American dream completed, but was alone. She seemed happy, but unknowingly incomplete. She seemed free to do as she pleased, but wasn't living up to her full giving potential. Most wouldn't have thought anything of this lady, but I've seen so many people living up to their full potentials. I know that most everyone around me is capable (and offered) so much more.

Again, I'm not judging you or this lady. I just dare us to ask ourselves, "Are we responding to Christ's call?" I'm talking about the specific and the general: The specific instructions according to our circumstances, talents and treasures; and the general instructions according to Christ's words to deny ourselves, take up a cross daily and to follow Him. Are we living the "lost" life and loosing ourselves for His sake? I know that when people truly respond to God's radical call of Christianity than life looks different. It's much more difficult, but it's much more fulfilling. Don't believe me? Take a trip to Orphanage Emmanuel and spot Mommy for a day.

WIJD.

2010-08-30T19:51:00.002-05:00

In Luke 9 a fellow tells Jesus, "I will follow you wherever you go...". I couldn't help but ask myself whether or not I could say the same thing. Could you? I also wondered where Christ is actually going. Maybe we shouldn't be asking WWJD (What would Jesus do), but rather, WIJD (What is Jesus doing). After all, He is still alive and leading us somewhere. We just have to follow.

How much has Christianity cost you?

2010-08-25T21:32:00.003-05:00

Back to our wishes in life (see the last blog post). Perhaps coming after Christ really didn't make our top 3 "genie" in the bottle list. Well, if we didn't wish to come after Christ, I bet we all wish to save our own lives. Then, Luke 9:24 for better suited for the situation that we're currently in.

"For whoever wishes to save his life will loose it..." The word "loose" here means "to kill" or "to destroy", and this is the intense language the original listeners would have heard. This should come as no surprise as Christ just told us in the sentence before to take up an instrument of death (every day). I know we have a hard time relating because the intensity of a cross has become numb.

Brother Levi called me the other day and spoke about Paul Washers sermon, "How much has Christianity Cost you?">. I just started listening to it, and had to stop I got so excited I wanted to hear it with Rebekah.

It's a good question, and I'll ask it again. How much has Christianity cost you? Write out the specifics, seriously. I have a feeling (and hope) we're on the verge of giving up so much more.

When I think about what we've given up in our own lives, I feel like we can (and should) be doing so much more. Christ has done so much for us, my spirit just isn't at rest. It's weird how we might want to give up even more. That we might hope for more demands from Christ! All I can say in explanation is that this promise is ringing true in our lives, "whoever wishes to save his life will loose it". The more we give and suffer for Christ's sake, the more we've experienced supernatural provision, freedom and fellowship with the Father.

Just look at the prices paid by those who followed Jesus in the Bible days. Most of the apostles died as martyrs, Zacchaeus sold half of his possessions and paid those he'd wronged 4X's what he owed, the Rich Young Ruler was asked to sell all of his possessions, others were told to become homeless nomads, and still others were told to "hate" their own families and leave them behind in the pursuit of Jesus. What has Christianity cost you? Sunday morning? 10% of your income? A short term mission trip? A few volunteer house a month? Really? What did it cost Christ?

It should come at no surprise that Christianity costs us something. In fact, it will cost us everything. Are we paying? It's why Christ told us to count the costs before we come. I think I've found myself in a tricky situation (probably similar to allot of you). I didn't count the (true) cost before I came. I had no idea, but here I am. Better late than never.

3 wishes.

2010-08-22T20:36:00.003-05:00

Pretend that I'm a genie in a bottle. Go ahead, make 3 wishes... what were they? Seriously, what are you wishes in your life?

Was one of them to come after Jesus? Then Luke 9:23 is for you! Luke 9:23 is probably one of the most popular verses of the Bible, but I think we overlook it's severity. The other day I found a cleverly placed track a the gas station that headlined, "get of of hell free". It resembled the monopoly get out of jail free chance card art and all. The back of it took me down the ever popular "Romans road". That salvation "road" is severely miss understood in that context. It was like I had my ticket out of hell! Great, who wouldn't want heaven over hell, especially if it didn't cost a dime. Saint Peter, if he's checking tickets at the golden gate, won't be looking for the monopoly knock off card. It's counterfeit.

What if that tract sole verse was Luke 9:23-24 and talked about denying oneself, take up an instrument of torture daily and following a homeless man who claimed to be God's son? Then it went on to say that if you want to save your life, then you must loose it! You must die to yourself. If Saint Peters at the Golden gate looking for tickets, then he's looking for bruises! Christ wants only those who will truly loose their life. Truly get "beaten" up for the cause of Christ. Give Him your ALL your time, money and energy. Loose yourself in Christ and nothing else.

Today, we went to a blessed church service for our friends Will and Shawna Tucker. There fixing to leave their country, church family, flesh family, friends, home, comforts etc... for the sake of the Gospel in Uganda Africa! Did I mention that their taking their 3 kids with them (one is due in November)? Yes, their losing this life, only to find it in Christ.

It was a bitter sweet service as people were sad and glad to see them off. In our hearts, we felt an overwhelming sense of excitement for them. To us, their life just became that much more fulfilling. In losing many things, we understand they'll gain so much more. It's the promise of God. Lose this life, save it. Leave houses and family...gain 100 fold (and eternal life)!

As we were driving back to the house, passing a classic "country" suburb, Rebekah said, "This is not what life is about". That statement range so drastically true as we just witnessed a sweet commission of a family who would be losing their American dream house (and so much more). As we passed house after house, I realized many had "arrived" to the dream, but the struggle wouldn't be over. Now, they store up for retirement and surely their stressing to make $3,000 - $6,000 a month (sometimes in mortgages alone). Today I could see the truth in losing your life to save it.
I asked her, "who's living the life?" With out hesitation she named the Tuckers, Amy (missionary to India), Teresa (missionary in Iraq), the Lucas'(missionaries to Hendersonville) and Katie (Missionary to Uganda).

I've arranged my 1st wish to that of a pursuit of Christ. My second will now be that we will all let go and truly lose our life in the service to Jesus!

Can you remember?

2010-08-01T20:28:00.002-05:00

As we were doing errands on Saturday night, it worked out that we would need to eat out. As we sat at the Cracker Barrel just about to get our food Rebekah asked, "Can you remember what it was like before kids?"

It's been quite the adjustment for our family taking in 2 more. We now have 4 and are establishing our "system". I told Rebekah that I couldn't remember what it was like to eat out prior to children, but I could tell her that the meal would have been cheaper, I wouldn't have gotten up two different times for bathroom breaks, I wouldn't have been asked about the junk in the store, we wouldn't have spilled drinks twice, I wouldn't have had to go out to the car twice, and Rebekah and I might have gotten to talk. I also know that without them life would be more simple, but I know without a doubt, that the simple life is not Gods plan for us.

Bear at the Holler

2010-07-28T20:28:00.005-05:00

We got a call from the neighbor this evening asking what to do about the bear in the yard.

Check it out:

We just checked him out quietly from the porch, but when I had to take Jonah in the yard to p, he climbed down the tree and ran off.

What's the wise thing to do?

2010-07-27T21:09:00.000-05:00

When I was working construction a few years ago with my brother-in law Rick, he taught me one thing for sure. He'd always ask, "What's the wise thing to do?"

I think that's something we should all continually ask. The Scriptures say that if we ask for wisdom, without doubting, then He'll grant it to us. But what is the wise thing to do?

Well... build your house upon the rock of Jesus Christ! Everyone who comes to Me and hears My words, and acts upon them, I will show you whom he is like: he is like a man building a house, who dug deep and laid a foundation upon the rock; and when a flood rose, the torrent burst against that house and could not shake it, because it had been well built. Luke 6:47-49

This is Christs conclusion to the sermon on the mount according to Luke. Some of the words Jesus just spoke include the likes of love your enemies, do good, lend expecting nothing in return, be merciful, do not judge, do not condemn, pardon, give, treat others the same way you want to be treated, give to everyone who asks and if someone steals something from you, give them something else as well!

This is not wisdom in the worldly sense, and this is by no means rational in the culture in which I am ingrained. Jesus Christ would fail miserable as a financial student. Or imagine, Christ as the professor at your nearest Seminary. Let's pretend He's teaching financing 101. It would be a real short class. One day, it might go something like this:

"Welcome everyone. Take out your Bibles and turn to Luke 6. Give to everyone who asks of you, and whoever takes away what is yours, do not demand it back... Lend and expect nothing in return. Ok, class dismissed. See you tomorrow... good Lord's willing"

It seems that we highly value wisdom, but true wisdom has been replaced with the common sense rational of the world. Our "wisdom" might go something like this: Discern when someone asks you for something, and don't give to everyone. If someone takes something from you, see to it that justice is done in a polite and forgiving manner. Lend (and borrow) with interest, it's the smart thing to do.

A brother just recently had a run in with his parents in regards to living out a radically simple life for God and His word. The parent said, "what your doing just doesn't seem rational". The brother simply responded with the same, "what your doing just doesn't seem rational". As Children of God and wise men building houses upon the rock, our rational will most definitely clash with the world and her ways.

Christ said it, the wise thing to do is come after Him and hear his words. Even the "crazy" ones.

Africa camp skinny!

2010-07-26T08:43:00.000-05:00

Steve, the director is 53 years old and he's now done being on the front line of camp. He's simply worn out and can't maintain all his current obligations. He takes a back seat and designates more responsibility to Will Tucker, JoJo and Kevin. By the way, they all did fabulous jobs.

Out of 30 interested kids, 18 of them drop like flys as pre-camp work piles up. Only the strong survive. Or should I say, only the strong make it to camp. This ain't no easy going kumbaya camp, this is mission work. Out of the 12 campers that do make it 10 are serious. One didn't even do her homework and she slid through by the skin of her teeth. The various leaders of camp pull her aside and hope to get to the deeper issues of what's going on in her life. No dice, but she does seem willing to submit to the program. She ends up doing fine, as do the other campers. 7 of the campers will be heading to Haiti on a real missions trip 2 days after camp!

Malaria might have been simulated through the stomach bug. 1st it was Josh, the directors kid and then the entire Rhodes clan and the rest of the Holler peeps. The campers seem to have escaped its wrath.

The campers learn how to cook, clean (both without running water or electricity), learn a new language, do water purification, understand what missionaries go through and hopefully a flame is fueled and these young people will live up to the Christ that's inside of them and flip this world upside down.

Breaking Point

2010-07-25T08:21:00.003-05:00

A couple of weeks ago we did poverty camp, and as I reflect back on the few days, one thing stands out; breaking point.

Among other things, campers loose possessions, eat at shelters, do garden work, walk for water, go hungry and sleep out in the open and in mud huts.

I noticed a trend based on the 3 poverty camps so far. There's always a breaking point where the ruggedness meets irritability. At 1st the experience can be allot of fun, but hunger, sleep deprivation and the unexpected begins to weigh on people.

For many, the fun's over by the time we set them loose in Asheville for a couple of hours to find food. At this point they've experienced 24 hours of poverty simulation and their done. As awkward as it may be, this has got to be my favorite part of camp. It's the break em or make em moment. Will they endure and build character, or will they crack and loose face. Most endure and some come out better people.

This last group trouped right through. They maintained positive attitudes and I'm sure they all learned from the experience.

By the end of the experience some proved their heart changes by responding to the treasure challenge. Those campers donated some of their precious clothing to the Storehouse and will enjoy treasures in heaven.

As I reflect on breaking points, I think about those in my own life. Once in Honduras I was asked to work an afternoon that we traditionally scheduled off. I was already emotionally and physically low, so I cracked. I walked toward my next post swearing under my breath. The Lord visited me and gave me grace to endure. When all was said and done, I came away a better person. I might not have handled myself right, but God showed me so much about my inner character.

Trials can be so good for us as they bring out our inner most flesh. In the midst of fires we discover just how strong and faithful we really are.

Life isn't so simple anymore.

2010-07-20T21:19:00.004-05:00

Speaking of "never a dull moment", which I stated in the last post. We had 6 poopie accidents the day before yesterday. We've quickly discovered that when you have 6 to a family (3 of em under 4) and just one toilet you get dirty pants, sprints to the porta john, gagging, adult usage of the kiddie pottie and gobs of dirty laundry.

Before our family additions, our time was already booked to the max, maybe 7 of 10 minutes would be full of hustle. Now, we're pushing 9 or 10. Even sleep have been more eventful with a waking baby and night time jitters. One of the boys sings and laughs (loudly) in their sleep!

Although busy and stressful our days have become more fulfilling. We've entered into a 24/7 ministry commitment like no other. If Francis Chan was right when he said, "how you live your days, is how you live your life", then I'm feeling a bit better about my life reflections upon my final breaths.

Our life has become more eventful and more difficult, but also more fulfilling. I can identify with the last line in the children's book The Cabbage Soup Solution where it says, "Her life was no longer so simple, and she liked it that way. Best of all, the little house was always warm at night." This was because the lady had taken in countless rabbits and 2 cats and they were all piled in the bed together.

Although we don't all pile in the bed together, I might say "Best of all the little house was always full with opportunities to love".

Why do we get to do this?

2010-07-10T23:24:00.003-05:00

I Timothy 1:12, "I thank the Messiah Jesus, our Lord, who gives me strength, that he has considered me faithful and has appointed me to his service..."

Our quiver doubled today as we welcomed 2 more children into our family through foster care! I ask, why do we get to do this?

As they were being dropped off the foster mother said, “never a dull moment”. I think of the Easlers who have gone before us by adopting 21. As their birth children were growing up, they realized their life was normal, but normal was boring (so they started living radically for the Lord). I ask, why do we get to do this?

This evening Rebekah tucked in 2 anxious and hurting souls. She asked, why do I get to do this?

There’s 143 million orphans in the world and we wonder why we get to parent 2 of them.

Christ has appointed us to this service, and I ask why do we get to do this?

What a privilege it is to follow our Lord and Savior!

It's camp season!

2010-07-08T21:26:00.004-05:00

We have 17 camps this year and most of them are happening in July! From Monday to Wednesday we did our 1st poverty camp for the season. Today, Camp Tekoa came out to mountainboard and now we gear up For Africa camps arrival on Monday, and towards the end of the month we'll have a couple of group from the Boys and Girls Club! There's been a bounty of "fish" in our pond and it's been a wild ride fishing em out! I hope to share more soon.

It's our anniversary!

2010-07-08T06:21:00.004-05:00

Well... it was our anniversary! On June 23rd Rebekah and I celebrated 9 years of marriage. So we've been boyfriend and girlfriend for 14.5 years (nearly half our lives).

As we reflected on the 9 years, we thought about where we were on the actual date throughout the years. 1st we had the honeymoon, then one year I planned a mountainboard event (don't ask me why) and one year we had 3 foster children for the weekend and one year we were on shift at the group home and one year we had a camp in. It's been interesting to see how the Lord has moved in our marriage.

The 1st year was NOT the hardest, but the 1st year we had Jonah WAS! I think we might still be in somewhat of a recovery, or should I say survival? Before children, it was all about us, even if we were giving ourselves to "outside" ministry. Once you have children, you enter into a 24/7/365/20 year commitment inside and outside the home. It's an ouch and a yeah at the same time!

I'm learned allot over the 9 years. Mainly, that I've been blessed with the most wonderful wife a man could ask for. She's been a wonderful support in all my endeavors. She's been a shoulder to cry on and a brain to filter through all my crazy ideas. She's a true woman of God and a natural born mother of all she comes across.

3.

2010-06-10T12:20:00.002-05:00

In response to my "Gospel" dream we just began pouring into the area that God brought to my attention. One day, just after we set out down the streets Brittany says, "Do you have a Boys and Girls Club here?" As a matter of fact, we do! We decided that we'd walk by it.

As we approached, a friend of mine from highschool (who works at the club) was walking by with a group says, "Have you seen the new gym? You should check it out". We didn't have plans to go in, but as we approached I stopped us all (me, Burton, Mamma, Brittany, Jonah and Josiah) to pray about whether or not we should go in. We pulled a "YWAM" and took a minute to pray to ourselves, asking God if we should go. It was a unanimous decision, we should go.

We went inside and asked for the tour. Our tour guide mentioned that teachers were looking for free places for field trips! The next day I called our guide and offered the Holler farm. She brought it up in the next days staff meeting and long story short, we have 3 groups coming out! How many boys were in my dream? 3!

Go time!

2010-05-31T20:56:00.002-05:00

I've always told the Lord that if He gives me a sign, then I will follow. This time, He spoke to me in a dream, as He often does. However, He didn't pin point the when, how's and even where's. Perhaps He's vague sometimes so that we'll seek Him more.

Essentially, we're now prayer walking the area surrounding the supposed location of my dream. On Monday's, Wednesday's and Friday afternoon's we're headed in for God know what. Already Burton and I have separated fights (three), visited a worship service, shared the Gospel and showed our baby chickens!

It's pretty close to some of the most awkward things I have done. I'm definitely out of my comfort zone, immersed in the inner city, a different culture and a younger age group that I'm used to working with. It's uncomfortable not knowing what we're going to do sometimes. It's so hard for me not to programise something. I'll be honest, sometimes I feel like a fool out there, following a dream. I hope it's real.

An Interpretation

2010-05-25T21:45:00.003-05:00

"...Do not interpretations (of dreams) belong to God?..." Joseph - Genesis 40:8

I'm going to refer to the dream in my last post as the Gospel dream. I woke up the next morning with it heavy on my heart and I began to seek the Lord for its meaning.

After a month of prayer I felt like the Lord had revealed the majority of His communication with me:

Jesus town Hendersonville - The poor part of Hendersonville. Specifically the East side of the rail road tracks covering Green Meadows to Lincoln Circle.

The Youth - The Young people of Jesus Town.

The Question and Answer - There's youth in that area hungry for the Gospel.

The drugs - There's youth in that area getting in trouble, who need hope.

The hay bales - The holler farm, representing a safe place to actually hear the Gospel, free from distractions.

The police officer - I struggled for meaning with this guy the longest. I was getting arrested "for selling drugs", but in actuality I was delivering hope of the Gospel. As we work with children, we must be careful to avoid the appearance of evil.

This dream happened in November and December. We prayed about it through the winter and began an implementation a couple of months ago. More on that to come. Father definitely revealed some of His specific will for us, but He left out some of the when or hows. Perhaps that's so we'll seek Him more. Needless to say, it's been an interesting ride so far.

the Gospel dream.

2010-05-17T21:26:00.003-05:00

"In a dream, a vision of the night, When sound sleep falls on men, While they slumber in their beds, Then He opens the ears of men, And seals their instruction," Job 33:15-16

It wasn't long after we looked into the ministries of Acts, read about Hudson Taylor and found Katie that the Lord gave me a life changing dream. Here's how it went:

My brother (from the same mother) and I were headed into Hendersonville in a white Nissan Xterra I used to own. He was driving and I was sitting in the middle. There were hay bales stacked in a wall behind me, so I couldn't see what was in the very back.

We pulled into the poor part of Hendersonville and parked. 3 young boys (10-12) of various races came up to the car. My brother got out and opened the hatch to begin selling them drugs. At this point I realized what was going on, but couldn't do much. I whisper through the hay bales to one of the kids:

"Do you want to hear the Gospel?"

To my surprise he excitedly said yes, so I told him to get in the car. He then asked his friends if they wanted to hear the gospel, and they said yes too. They all got in the car and my brother drove down the block and parked at his next stop.

I began to speak. I don't even think I got to, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the Earth" when the front door opened.

It was a cop.

That was the end of my dream. I prayed about the meaning over the next few weeks. Good Lord's willing I'll post my interpretations next week. For now, do you have any input?

Our world got rocked!

2010-05-09T20:59:00.005-05:00

It's was a week or so after Josiah's birth, we're evaluating our lives, we're looking at the ministries of Acts, we're getting blown away by Hudson Taylor and then we met Katie!

Rebekah's friend Christa had forwarded us the Katie synopsis. Here it is in Katie's own words in a blog she posted in August of 2009:

It is my 16th Birthday and I am eating sushi at my favorite restaurant with my parents when I tell them that I would like to explore the possibility of taking a year in between high school and college to do mission work. This is unheard of in my family and they say they are not sure and will think about it. I am nervous, but somehow I know it is right. He changes their hearts.

I have just turned 18 and find an orphanage online. I beg my parents to let me visit over break, just three weeks. A month later I am on a plane. I am so excited. I am so scared of being, but I know He is going with me. I fall in love.

I graduate high school having made the commitment to teach Kindergarten for a year at a school in The Middle of Nowhere, Uganda. In August I get on the plane. I’m apprehensive and I cry most of the way because I miss my Mommy and my boyfriend. I am eager, but so uncertain. I trust Him. I teach 138 children how to speak English and to love Jesus.

It is October and I am just not sure I can do it anymore. I live in the smallest room I have ever seen in the back of a pastor’s house. I am more uncomfortable than I had bargained for. No one understands, not people here, not people at home. I am tired. But I am prideful and I am not going to quit. I don’t like this. But I know He has a plan. I learn, I grow, He is there.

It is December and God has spoken very clearly about opening a ministry that sponsors 40 of the orphaned children in the village where I am working. This involves moving into a different house, ALONE. It is big and I cannot imagine how God will fill it up. I am lonely and I am anxious. But I am still trusting. He fills the house, and we now have 400 children sponsored.

It is January and I am looking at a little girl, crushed under a brick wall with no one to care for her or her younger siblings. I offer to take the three home with me until we find them a better placement. I am not really sure what to do with them, but I know they are God’s children. They stay.

It is three days later and the littlest looks at me and calls me mommy. My heart might break in two. Something clicks. I am even more scared than I was the day I stepped on that plane, but I KNOW. Today I have 13.

I have to deliver a baby, give a boy stitches, pull a tooth, give and injection. I am petrified. But no one will do it if I do not. He is present, He holds my hand, they are all fine.

It is August and I must get on a plane back to America to go to college, as I have promised my father. I do not remember how to be a teenager or what it is to be normal Brentwood, Tennessee. I will have to leave my babies. I will have to make new friends. I am sad and I am terrified. He wraps His arms around me. He puts just the right people in just the right places, and they help me and they make me feel at home.

First semester is over and He speaks clearly to me that I cannot serve two masters. “Go HOME,” He says, “and stay.” I am uncertain, but I want to be obedient. He squeezes tighter. I am thankful.

I have to look at my loving parents who have given me everything and tell them that I will not go to college right now, because I feel God wants me to be in Uganda. I know how disappointed and how angry they will be. I am more scared than I was when I got on the plane and more scared than I was when I took my first children. But I know that this IS the Plan. They love me anyway.

It is February and my daughter’s biological father comes to take her away. My heart breaks in half, and I am not sure I will ever be able to get out of my bed again, let alone foster another child. I am more than devastated, but I want what is best for her, what He wants for her. She comes back and her biological father learns about Jesus.

It is March and a lame little girl is brought to my gate. She is undoubtedly mine, but I am still anxious. What if I can’t do it? I don’t know what to do with a special needs child, especially as my 13th child. I am criticized and ridiculed. I wonder. I trust and praise God for her sweet little life. She starts to walk.

I find myself in a village full of starving people that for some reason seem to want to kill me. God says to serve them anyway. I am not sure how it is going to work, or if it is safe. I can’t figure it out, but I know He can. 1,200 Karamajongs, the poorest of Uganda’s poor, are now served hot meals daily.

We keep taking in more children until there are 400 in our program. There is no way we will raise enough funds, but by now I have stopped worrying. He has always provided. Blessings rain from the sky, and all 400 children go to school.

I am 20 years old and have 13 children and 400 more who all depend on me for their care. Who are all learning to love Jesus and be responsible adults and looking up to me. The reality of it all can be a bit overwhelming at times. However, it is always pure joy. There is a common misconception that I am courageous. I will be the first to tell you that this is not actually true. Most of the time, I am not brave. I just believe in a God who will use me even though I am not. Most mornings, before I even get out of bed I am overwhelmed with His goodness, with His plan for my life; I stand in awe of the fact that He could entrust me with so much. Most days, I don’t have much of a plan. I don’t always know where this is going. I can’t see the end of the road, but here is the great part: Courage is not about knowing the path. It is about taking the first step. It is about Peter, getting out of the boat. I do not know my five year plan; even tomorrow will probably not go as I have planned. I am thrilled and I am terrified, in a good way. So some call it courage, some call it foolish, I call it Faith. I choose to get out of the boat. To take the next step. Sometimes I walk straight into His arms. More often, I get scared and look down and stumble. Sometimes I almost completely drown. And through it all, He never lets go of my hand.

Posted by Katie at 12:34 PM, August 2009.

Here she is with all her 14 children!

You can keep up with Katie at her blog, the Journey.

The night Rebekah read that to me, I couldn't sleep. I couldn't help but ask myself, "what am I doing with my life?". I pray Katie continues to rock our world in motivating us by proving God's mighty strength is still alive in ministry! Her story seems like something out of an old missionary book. You just don't hear of such faith, boldness and love.

Meet Hudson Taylor

2010-05-06T21:58:00.003-05:00

Momma and I begin a new habit soon after Josiah's birth. I begin reading everyone to sleep at night. We started with a book that Brooke gave us that had been sitting on the shelf far too long:

Hudson Taylor's Spiritual Secret

Fresh from my study of Acts, in which I found ministries centered around the Gospel, we find Hudson Taylor sold out for God and His Gospel message. Now here's a revolutionary who's willing to train himself with poverty conditions, dress like his targeted people group, go where no man dare go, venture out without asking for money, lose wives and children along the way and still find joy in the Vine!!!

Needless to say we were more inspired to live a life and ministry that's more reflective of God's message found in the Holy Scriptures.

Their example.

2010-04-25T20:11:00.004-05:00

Soon after Josiah's birth a brother shared with me a way in which we could interpret Scripture. He encouraged me to ask, "how did the original hearers respond?". He was talking about those who chose to follow Christ, not those who turned away. It's a good question that helps me to better understand hard teachings like Luke 14:33.

I guess that's mostly why I was looking to the book of Acts to discover the ministries of the Apostles. Acts is a continuation of what Christ would have taught them to do in the Gospels. This should shed light on how we ought to run our own lives (our ministries).

As I pointed out in the previous post, preaching of the Gospel took the front seat in their lives. If we're to interpret Christ's words the same way they did, then preaching of the Gospel will be our primary expression of love for God and people. We can trust the Apostles, and their application of God's word. They were there, they saw the body language, saw Christ's every mood and totally understood the original language!

I have to confess, it seems I might have gotten away from that Gospel centered living. Sure, we love the Lord and we try to love people, but we might have veered away from actually putting the communication of the good news at the forefront of all we do.

The study of Acts was only the beginning of what Christ has begun to do in us to stir us more radically for His Gospel. More to come...

What happens when...

2010-04-18T20:59:00.002-05:00

What happens when you find yourself with 4 weeks off from your regular routine? For us, God Almighty began a rigorous stirring in our hearts. After our second son's Josiah's birth, we took a month off from work, ministry and social obligations.

Sure, there was allot of cleaning, cooking and generally caring for momma and baby, but there was also allot of time to think about things. That time period turned into an evaluation of life and ministry.

I figured I would go to the original drawings of discipleship and adjust my own sketch accordingly. I asked myself, "what were the ministries found in Acts?" What I found was overwhelmingly weighted in one direction.

Here's the ministries I found:
Preaching the Gospel
Prayer
Laying of Hands
Fasting
Singing Hymns
Prophecy
Tongues
Baptizing
Selling Possessions/sharing
Giving
Healing

Then mentioning of preaching the Gospel trumped them all with at least 36 mentions. Next runner up? Prayer, with only 12.

I also noticed something significant. In addition to preaching the Gospel primarily, it seems most of the other ministries revolved around this popular ministry!

Take for example, Peter and John. They didn't go to the temple day to heal people. They went to preach the Gospel and to pray. They see a lame beggar along the way, so they display the glory of the Lord by healing him!

To be continued...

Farm Tour and Movie!

2010-04-05T18:17:00.001-05:00

Join us this Friday, April 9th, 2010:

5PM - Farm tours w/ hay rides. See the fields, greenhouse and starter seeds. Hang out with the Holler peeps!

6PM - Pot luck dinner (bring a dish to share)

7PM - Movie, "Fresh" w/ discussion, "why Christians care"

Here's the trailer for the movie:

So much.

2010-03-19T23:49:00.002-05:00

There's so much we could talk about in regards to our life today. The Lord's been dealing with us tremendously and we're making so major life changes. We're in the midst evaluating our lives and ministry. I'm still praying about whether or not to keep up the blog. For now, I'm leaning towards enduring for the sake of the Lord's dealings with me. I do want to make sure this is not a hinderance to the Gospel or a violation of His precious demands.

March Update.

2010-03-10T06:56:00.002-05:00

Upcoming events:

March 13th, 4pm - Honduras mission trip meeting
March 16th, 7pm - African Chai party

Community:
The Lucas' and Scott moved out the Saturday before last. If any one's interested the cabin is now available for rent ($825). We're excited for the Lucas' and their 18 year old dream of CDM (Community Discipleship Mission). They are now residing in a large house in Hendersonville. Young people are invited to live with them in order to experience community, get discipled and live misssionally. Scott has felt led to join that movement, and we look forward to see his continually growth in the Lord.

Farm:

The farm rush has most definitely begun. We're preparing the garden rows and starting seeds. We're selling shares into the garden, beef and eggs.

Mission:

Just last Friday we ventured out into new territory for us. We visited families in Jesus town (low income section) Hendersonville. We hope to begin taking the Gospel to young people in that area.

L.O.T. continues strong with a continual flow of volunteers. The Gospel continues to be preached and hundreds of people fed.

This season is calling for allot of clean up onsite. We're trying to make the best use of what we've already been giving. As a result, we've been doing allot of clean up on campus.

Camps begin this month with Africa work camps. We've booked 5 camps for the summer!

Father has begun a unique work in our lives. He's directed our attention to Luke 14:33 and other passages that call us, as disciples, to forsake all to follow Him. I don't have a complete picture of what that looks like in our lives, but it's been interesting to see our lives begin to unfold before Him.

She lived a good life.

2010-03-01T20:05:00.003-05:00

An overall message after my granny's passing was, "she lived a good life". I'm not talking about those self indulgent "life is good" t-shirts either. She lived a good life because she worked hard in the Lord's service and blessed everyone she came in contact with. She lived a good life, because she didn't waste her life. Mr Schmidt can't relate:

My 101 Granny passed away!

2010-02-25T15:08:00.003-05:00

Tuesday morning, my pop called crying. My 101 year old granny had passed away into eternity. She was well loved, so it's hard to see her go. Despite the sadness, it's hard not to sense a peace about the situation. Without a doubt, she's in paradise worshiping at the feet of Jesus.

Thank the Lord we had the "notion" to go and see her on Sunday (see the picture above). Lately, I've been trying to wrap my mind around Luke 14 and the extremely high costs of discipleship. Luke 14:33 stands out as a key verse that states, "none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions". I was determined to visit Granny and read her Luke 14 (she loved having the Bible read to her).

I think deep down I was expecting some kind of miraculous exegesis. Instead, I got her usual response to Scripture reading, "Lord help us I pray". We loved and cherished that visit, but I was a bit disappointed Granny was long past her Bible commentary phase. However, as I look back, I couldn't ask for a better response. How else can we respond to the seemingly impossible demand of Christ? Lord help us I pray!

Granny's life was enough Bible commentary on it's own. Her life reflected what forsaking all (for Christ) might look like. She died a physically poor woman with absolutely nothing to her name, accept maybe some inexpensive clothing, a few family photos and some nursing home crafts. Just about every ime I saw her she'd ask me two things "Do you want something to eat?" and "Do I have anything you want?". It didn't matter if she just had $1 or 1 million, it was designated to whoever wanted it! She became poor, for the betterment of others around her.

Once, my friend Dan was teasing her. He asked if he could buy a piece of Burl Holler (the 75 acres she raised her children on, which I now reside). To my surprise she bluntly said, "no". After a moment of awkward silence, she came back saying, "but if you need a place to live, then come on!" We couldn't believe it. She had refused to sell the valuable estate, but was ready to give it away for FREE!

They'll be hundreds of people at her funeral. She's touched thousands with her hand made quilts, home made cooking, stern fussing, open hand, thankful spirit and gentle prayers. Already people are saying, "she lived a good life" and that she did. It wasn't easy, but her life was filled with purpose as she joyfully served under her Father's mighty hand!

No compromise at work!

2010-02-22T19:48:00.004-05:00

Brother Burton took a stand today at his secular workplace. He's a one on one worker for the state and knew there was a policy in place for workers to refrain from speaking "religion" to their clients.

He's been preaching the Gospel there ever since he's been saved, but he's felt a compromise because he signed an agreement that stated otherwise.

Last night his conscience nearly burst and he told his wife what he must do. Today, he told his boss that he couldn't shut up about Jesus! The response? "That's fine, just keep on getting in your paperwork."

The story gets better. When Burton confessed to his client that he hasn't been completely open and honest with him, the client said it was ok. Later though, when Burton refused to take him to buy cigarettes he was literally cursed. The ending? Believe it or not, the client apologized within 30 minutes and still wants to keep burton as his client.

Let Burton be an encouragement to all you folks in the secular work force. Don't compromise. Preach the Gospel, and tell the earthly "bosses" that you can't shut up about Jesus. What's the worse case scenario? You'll be fired and cursed, but your heavenly Father will be smiling down on you because you were unashamed. Let us know, and we'll throw you a party for ya.

Jerry Nelson shoots the Holler.

2010-02-21T17:46:00.003-05:00

Jerry Nelson is a free lance photographer who's shot the like of Shane Claiborne, Joel Salatin and Hilary Clinton. Now, he's set his lens on the Holler, just before he peddles his bike across America to raise $10,000 for Asheville's homeless.

Here's more of his pics from last Saturday's homeless feed.

Blog update

2010-02-14T17:32:00.003-05:00

Since I haven't posted in a while, I thought I would give a brief update.

The Lord's dealings with me:
Since Josiah's birth the Lord has begun a new work in our hearts. He has used the Salthouses and the Kirklands (the newest community residents), the reading of Hudson Taylor, Katie , the "brothers", my dream and our friends Will and Shawna Tucker to excite a new drive for preaching the Gospel.

Father has directed me to passages like Luke 14 (the high cost of discipleship) and the book of Acts (looking to see how they lived out Christ's commands). Father has only begun this work in our lives, so I'm looking forward the adventures that lay ahead.

Community:
The Lucas' are moving out of the cabin. Looking back, they have served as a wonderful source of encouragement. They leave to establish an 18 year dream of CDM (Community Discipleship Mission), where they'll reside in a large house with with several young people eager to grow in their faith.

We have a family scheduled to visit us Wednesday through Saturday who's interested in joining us in this ministry!

Mission:
We've booked another poverty camp, and have a couple of other prospects! That makes 3camps already lined up this summer.

Burton, one of the newest community residents has committed to working part time for the Holler!

We're busy on the farm putting down soil amendments and planning the farm season (garden, chickens and beef). All Hollerganic!!!

On Holler day we've continued to feed the homeless despite the terrible weather. More than 20 people have heard the Gospel one on one! Jesus continues to visit our houses. The week before last, we had Happy (a strong character with one leg), Alex (a Jamaican very enthusiastic about King David), Fred (a older gentleman that entertained us with his singing and guitar playing) and Damien (recovering from some serious abuse). That was an interesting day to say the least.

We're currently praying about our approach to an inner city outreach. God has revealed to me that the poor youth of Hendersonville are eager to hear the Gospel.

We continue to clean up the place, making good use of what we already have. We received a $1,000 grant from the Storehouse to help us get our zoning permit! This will enable us to get a building permit to add a bathroom for the community center.

Precious for sale!

2010-02-04T15:59:00.003-05:00

As part of a simplification process, we're selling the mini van. You know, the Precious, as we like to call her. We're switching to Diesel so that we can run on used vegetable oil and save over $100 in fuel!

Here's some more pics.

Here's the info:
2001 Ford Windstar SE $4,000 or best offer
157,000 miles
7 Passenger
Rear Air
Power Windows
Power Door Locks
2 rear sliding doors. Passenger side is power automatic
Tilt Wheel
Cruise Control
Cassette and CD player
Dual Front Air Bags
ABS (4-wheel)
Roof Rack
Privacy Glass
Alloy Wheels
Quad Seating
New tires as of August (only 5,000 miles)
Tie rods replaced in November
Transmission was completely rebuilt at 100,000 miles
Sometimes the ABS brake light comes on but the mechanic said it was the warning light but everything was ok.
The check engine also comes on but it was just the warning light and everything was ok.

God's hand.

2010-01-24T06:29:00.002-05:00

It's good to see, or rather, feel God's hand move in your life.

This time, I'm talking about provision. It's been a miraculous week for the Holler in regards to this matter.

We booked a poverty camp of 60 students, we have 5 sets of people talking to us about moving to the Holler, the garden share deposits are in, Burton got $2,205 worth of donations for L.O.T. and the Lord keeps sending us souls for His foundational service here at the Holler.

And if He wasn't providing us with souls, our daily bread and tools for ministry then we'd still have all the spiritual blessings that come with being His child.

Rejoice!

Uncertainty of wealth.

2010-01-17T10:55:00.004-05:00

Yesterday at L.O.T. (homeless breakfast) the uncertainty of wealth was more prevalent than ever. I talked with 2 guys, and both of them started down the path of homelessness by the sudden collapse of their wealth.

Gary was a successful foreman when he came down with lung disease and was unable to work and keep up with the business bills and the expenses of everyday life. Now he's faced with homelessness in a town where he can get medical care through veteran outreaches.

Lee was a successful Realtor when he began to write bad checks. His business partner had developed a drug addiction and was secretly squandering up to $70,000 of the businesses recourse's. The doors had to shut and this lead to a downward spiral of alcoholism, physiological disorders, divorce and homelessness.

"Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain..."

It's here today, and could be gone tomorrow.

I have opened my doors to travelers

2010-01-15T07:40:00.003-05:00

“the alien has not lodged outside, For I have opened my doors to the traveler,” Job 31:32

Yesterday when Brackin called to tell me about a couple of visitors coming to the Holler, my nerves were heightened. We were having some “train hoppers” out for dinner. He said they were rough around the edges and from what I knew about train hoppers I imagined they would be young, skinny, gothic, grunge, punk, anarchy type of kids. I really didn’t know what we were getting into.

I was uncomfortable. We were going to have a nice “breakfast” for dinner with the community. We were going to eat, laugh and talk about Holy things. I had some particular verses on community I wanted to share. Now, from what I knew, we were having a couple of lost souls for dinner.

I remembered Christ’s words, “I was a stranger and you invited me in”. That was of some comfort, but we’re new to that particular aspect of ministering to Jesus. So far we’ve fed Him, given Him something to drink, visited Him while He was sick, but we haven’t invited into our houses. A couple of weeks ago we had Mary Susie, but that was just for a couple of hours, she was small and fragile, she was alone, it was during broad daylight and she would be up at the hill house. This time, it’s 2 rugged men, who are sleeping over… in my house! Or, I should say, the stables down below.

Christ’s red letters were of some comfort, but it was still hard to see Jesus in these guys. It was hard to push away crazy fears. Rebekah and I prayed that their hearts would be open for the Gospel and that our fears would be calmed. I began to find comfort in the oddest thought, “maybe we shouldn’t be so comfortable”. I was faced with just trusting Christ’s words and embracing the discomfort. Maybe I’m not supposed to be so comfortable. Perhaps our dinner parties and home Bible studies should be “disturbed” more often.

Upon arrival, they weren’t young punk kids. They were aged, beat up hobo’s, REALLY rough around the edges. One had lost a leg to the train at 16. The other introduced himself like this, “I’m Don, they call me Charles Manson”. Let’s just say, we’re not off to a comfortable start, and this comes after they’ve put their stuff in the bottom of our house.

As they sat in our living room, their personalities and stories began to come out. They were pleasant and open to what we had to say about the Gospel. The aroma of Christ was strong. I’m not talking about peaches and cream either, I’m talking about the literal smell of poverty. It’s now lingering on our furniture and it’s coming up through the vents from below. The Gospel was preached through the reading of the word, and I asked Brackin to share his story. Brackin because his background closely resembles their current life style. They were open to listen and one of the guys seemed very thoughtful to the truth being told.

I’ll admit, I had a couple of dreadful thoughts while they were here, “what if they have guns… or drugs”. And during the night, I woke up several times with bad thoughts not worthy to mention. Jonah was also sick and we had thoughts of the spiritual warfare these guys have likely brought. Is our family under attack?
This morning as I search the Scriptures anew for comfort in regards to the welcoming of strangers I start with Christ’s red letters in Matt 25 and I chase references to Job and Hebrews. The Job verse is the header of this document and Hebrews reads as follows: “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.” Here we have a direct command to be hospitable to strangers. Notice the verses in regards to strangers teach us that we’re caring for Jesus and could be entertaining Angels. Notice they do not say we will be comfortable while doing it. Should we rest peacefully in the obedience of God? Absolutely. We will be comfortable. Not always.

We were going to have a nice comfortable dinner together as a community, and no doubt, talk about Holy things. Now, our comfort was disturbed, but we got to actual DO Holy things!

Allow me to close with a challenge from Leo Tolstoy in his story, A Talk Among Leisured People “So it seems that none of us may live rightly: we may only talk about it.” I’m done talking, and ready to do.

Massive Earthquake hits Haiti

2010-01-14T13:51:00.003-05:00

This just in from Compassion International:

Haitian Children and Families Devastated by Massive Earthquake

The catastrophic earthquake that hit Haiti yesterday has resulted in unfathomable chaos and devastation for hundreds of thousands of children and families.

Compassion sponsors and donors serve more than 65,000 children in Haiti. At least a third of them live in the areas that were hardest hit.

We are working rapidly to assess the situation and determine the full extent of damage:

Sadly, we anticipate there will be many deaths.
We anticipate thousands of children and families will have lost everything.
We anticipate many of our church-based child development centers will have been destroyed.

Without a doubt, the children we serve in Haiti are in shock and face immediate needs for food, water, medical care, shelter and counseling. We have teams prepared to respond, and we are deeply committed to helping each child.

We need your donation today. Please reach out in the name of Jesus to bring relief, comfort, love and restoration to precious children and families whose lives have been devastated by this crisis.

Click here to donate.

Taketh away?

2010-01-12T22:51:00.004-05:00

On Saturday I got the share the Gospel with someone who had never heard it! Out of the last 15 or so that have been open to hearing the Gospel, ALL of them claimed to have heard some version of it in their past. This time, I had fresh ground.

It was a guy my age (31) who came to L.O.T. after a night of "sleeping" outside in sub zero temperatures. He wanted to hear the Good news, so I poured out my heart. He admitted he didn't understand everything, but he didn't have any questions either.

This guy was ready to get out of town and go back home. Burton and another brother happily took him to Raleigh (half way to his final destination). They, of course, were able to love on him and teach the Gospel. I asked them how he received their witness and the response was "He's still caught up in the world, but he'll never forget the kindness of that day".

Perhaps it wasn't the Gospel words he'll remember, but the Gospel deeds he was shown that day. Not only was he given a hot breakfast, he got gloves, a Bible, a ride to Raleigh and a bus ticket to his final destination. He called, and arrived safely but said nothing in regards to spiritual matters.

It makes me wonder if the seed was cast to the way side? This is how Jesus describes some peoples reception to the Gospel: "but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately, and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts."

I pray not.

I'm coming to your house today.

2010-01-07T13:19:00.003-05:00

It was like Jesus said to us, "I'm coming to your house today". We didn't know it when we woke up last Saturday morning that we'd be bringing a cold homeless woman back with us!

It was the 1st time in Holler history, but it felt so natural. It felt like we'd been doing this for years. What would you do if a helpless and fragile woman was left out in the 14 degree weather? She needed a place to go and no one had any openings.

We took her home with us and it was like she became part of the family, part of the community.

After feeding her 3 lunches we found an afternoon spot in which she would feel more comfortable. We took her there and wished her well. Fortunately she was able to find a more permanent shelter.

It was a 1st for us, but hopefully not our last. As Christians, we ought to have Jesus over all the time!

Pure fun...or not.

2010-01-05T19:26:00.003-05:00

I had fond memories of the Rodeo. One time when we were kids my dad took me in my brother when were were out west. The memory I had of the show was pure, wholesome, and fun.

So when the rodeo came to town I thought it would be a good idea to take my dad and my son to the show for Papaw's B-day. I got tickets early to save some money, but when the day arrived Papaw fell ill and had to back out. I almost wanted to back out, but I was still "socially" obligated to my brother, my friend and their sons.

As we were sharing a meal with our friends before the show we got to talking about a recent house I had been in. The owner was so eager to show off the half a million dollar house, our hearts were hurt to think about the multitudes of children that would die of starvation as the tour commenced.

As we talked about others and their extravaganzas that still small voice pointed the finger back on me. We should sell our tickets and give the money to the poor! I quickly hushed that for the sake of a social obligation to my brother. I'm sure my friend would have been game for it. We would have had a better time just talking anyway.

As soon as I stepped into the arena I knew I had made a mistake. Worldliness dominated. My brother sat behind us, so that wasn't conducive to talking. The loud show wasn't either. What was I hanging on to? Secular music, raunchy jokes, even swearing. It was like a nice movie memory. It's something you haven't seen in years, but you remember it as good. When you go to watch it now, you can't believe the filth. It's the matter of growing closer and closer to our Holy Father. You just can't be entertained by sin.

It just isn't funny anymore. Social obligations or not, I hope to listen to that still small voice next time.

Beseeching works!

2010-01-04T14:11:00.005-05:00

Last time at the L.O.T. breakfast we had only 6 volunteers (2 of them we're there to be fed as well)! 6 workers isn't enough for such a plentiful harvest (100 plus people to minister to). That night at barn church we besseched the Lord for more workers.

Despite the snow, wind and 14 degree temperatures we had a dozen show up last holler day! The Lord heard our prayers and He doubled the workers! Are you serious!!!! Check out the road on the way to the feed:

As a result of all the help the Gospel was proclaimed to 6 people, by the mouths of 3different ministers! That couldn't have happened before. Now, more ministers of the word were freed up to proclaim the good news!

Here's a shot of the workers in action!

Crazy Love.

2010-01-01T06:54:00.002-05:00

Our beloved friends and their two children are sleeping on the ground, eating African food and "practicing" missions as they prepare themselves for the black continents, Hudson Taylor style!

Just yesterday a case of diarrhea delayed their appearance to a random act of kindness handing out hot apple cider to homeless people. "Welcome to Africa" I said as he was informing me of his delay. Among other things our friends will experience fear, diarrhea, loneliness, doubt, frustration and malaria. Their children will feel much of the same thing. Crazy love.

Another friend was inspired by the book "crazy love" so he cut back his hours at work to 20. He now volunteers Wed, Thur and Fri! As result he and his wife found their 1st child (through adoption) through a network connection at the Storehouse (one of they place they volunteer).

I've heard about this book, "crazy love", but I haven't read it. The title, and my friends reaction to it, says it all. Get off of your butt and do SOMETHING! Be crazy. Be absolutely crazy. Crazy for Jesus. Crazy for love.

2.5 times!

2009-12-26T14:28:00.003-05:00

I got to share the Gospel 2 and a half times today! So far I'm 4 for 4 in those interested in hearing the Gospel. It's real simple:

1. Be in a Spirit of prayer in regards to opportunities.
2. Introduce yourself and get their name. Maybe do a bit of small talk.
3. Ask, "do you want to hear the Gospel?"
4. If they say no, move on.
5. If they say yes, take them to a quieter location or arrange to meet at their break (if their working).

So far everyone I've asked have said yes!

Today, I got to pour out God's good news 2 full times and I was sharing with another guy who had to leave abruptly before his source of plasma donation info went away. Bummer.

Anyway, today was a spectacular day!

Life without Christians.

2009-12-23T08:03:00.005-05:00

Or should I say life without Christ's body in this world. What would that look like? Sure, we often give ourselves a hard time. We could most certainly do better. I'm certain hypocrisy and false teachings have led others astray (or deep down is it food for their hardening heart?). But for all the hypocrisy, you can find much compassion. For all the mis understood teachings you can find someone giving of themselves.

Yesterday, amidst the Christians who were angry "elves", had cigarettes and were storming off in anger there were countless Christians happily giving up their day to give and distribute gifts at the Storehouse's' annual Christmas gift distribution.

Upon arrival we, as volunteers, were told that we weren't needed. There were "500 other volunteers already" I was told. It didn't matter, since our sole job was to take pictures. For more pics, click here.

Then we walked into this room filled with Christmas presents! By the way those weren't from Santa, they were from loving Christians who wanted to better some strangers Christmas day. They will forever remain anonymous.

Many of the receiving families had just lost work and you could tell they were humbly accepting these gifts. Every family was extremely thankful and excited. You wouldn't believe the train of gifts as the young volunteers gift carriers followed the recipients to their car.

As I was leaving, I couldn't help but wonder, what would the world look like without Christians? Without hope of God in this world? What would it look like without Christ's body. Sure, these Christmas families would be ok without a skateboard or a new bike, but this massive expression of love reminded me of all the mouths fed, all the bodies warmed and all the souls given hope through the gospel.

Without Christians, I think this world would look more like Pottersville. Remember what the world looked like without George Baily in "It's a wonderful life"? Christians are the George Bailys of this world, just trying to do the right thing. In a completely selfish economy like Pottersville, the rest of the world would likely be much worse off than it already is.

Cheers to all the Christian trying to make this world a better place!

It snowed in Africa!

2009-12-20T16:23:00.004-05:00

Africa, NC that is. Check out the African mud huts:

More pictures here.

I estimate at least 6-8" of snow on the ground. We haven't had a snow like this since 1995! It began to pour down Friday morning and lasted throughout the day. The Storehouse's annual Christmas distribution had to be post poned till Tuesday.

The Saturday morning homeless feed was also canceled due to the downfall and reality of major road closings like I-26!

Thank God we haven't lost power, so we've been able to catch up on some inside work and rest.

Hollerganic garden share!

2009-12-17T14:42:00.004-05:00

As we're trying to build up the farm to help us become more sustainable we've created the hollerganic garden share! Check it out. Let us know if your interested:

Hollerganic Garden Share

What’s it all about?

• 20 weeks of veggies, fruits, and herbs (May 26th - Oct 6th, 2010).
• All natural (no chemical pesticides or fertilizers).
• Pick up once a week in town or on the farm.
• Supports the Rhodes’ family and the work of Holler Ministries.
• $600 family share (4-5 people) or $340 single share (1-3 people).Paid in 3 installments.

What’s included?

Seasonal veggies, fruits and herbs. A minimum of 4 varieties each week.

Vegetables: Beans, beets, bell peppers, broccoli, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, collards, corn, cucumbers, kale, lettuce, onions, potatoes, peas, pumpkins, spinach, squash, swish chard, tomatoes and zucchini.

Herbs: Basil, Cilantro, dill, garlic, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage and thyme.

Fruit: Cantaloupe, strawberries and watermelon.

the difference.

2009-12-13T10:30:00.004-05:00

Inspired by my dream I set our yesterday morning determined to ask someone if they wanted to hear the gospel.

As I was cooking the bacon at the L.O.T. feed I felt compelled to ask Terry. I chickened out though and only asked, "Have you heard the gospel?" That question was much easier than, "Do you want to hear the gospel?". Can you tell the difference?

Terry wasn't receptive and murmured something like, "don't need to preach to me". So I murmured, "I'll just keep preaching with my hands" and I went back to flipping bacon. Given such a poor response, I was determined to ask someone else.

Joe came along and I chickened out again. I asked, "Have you heard the gospel?" This time I got a more favorable reply and we were able to have a good conversation that ended in prayer. I had done my "duty". I was done for the day.

As we were packing up, I saw a man in which I could speak Spanish. The usual, "Buenos dias", to which he replied, "I'm a Navajo". Oops... but something inside of me leaped for joy. Maybe this guy hadn't heard the Gospel. Then...

"Do you want to hear the Gospel?"

"Yes."

At this point I was a bit surprised. It was that easy and now I would be able to share the good news! I laid out the truth within 3 or 5 minutes. I wish I could tell he was ready to repent and get baptised, but he seemed challened.

Regardless, it felt amazing to share the hope that is inside of me!!!! What a spectacular day.

Do I need health insurance?

2009-12-10T07:40:00.003-05:00

Or, for that matter, any kind of insurance.

Yes of course, here goes:

"Our Father, who is in heaven.
How Holy is your name.
Your Kingdom come, your will be done.
On Earth as it is in Heaven.

Give us this day, our daily bread.
Forgive us of our sins,
as we forgive those that sin against us.
lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.

For yours is the Kingdom, power and glory forever, Amen."

If that's my daily prayer, what else could I possibly need? Man made insurance? I think not. God's daily bread, forgiveness, protection from evil! I'll rest at peace in that!

Do you want to hear the Gospel?

2009-12-09T07:14:00.004-05:00

I had a disturbing, but hopefully life changing dream the other day. I have some ideas of what it means, but I'd like to get the impute of others:

My brother and I were headed into Hendersonville in a white Nissan Xterra I used to own. He was driving and I was sitting in the middle. There were hay bales stacked in a wall behind me, so I couldn't see what was in the very back.

We pulled into Jesus town (the poor part) Hendersonville and parked. 3 young boys (10-12) of various races came up to the car. My brother got out and opened the hatch to begin selling them drugs. At this point I realized what was going on, but I couldn't do much with the hay bales. I did manage to whisper through the hay bales to one of the kids:

"Do you want to hear the Gospel?"

To my surprise he excitedly said yes. I told him to get in the car. He then asked his friends, and they too wanted to hear the gospel. They all got in the car and my brother drove down the block and parked at his next stop.

I began to speak. I don't even think I got to, "God created the heavens and the Earth" when the front door opened.

It was a cop.

My dream was over, but you know I must have gotten arrested for "selling" drugs to kids.

Spectacularity.

2009-12-07T09:01:00.003-05:00

Is that even a word? The other day, I heard a brother ask another how his day was. He replied with simple truth, "nothing spectacular". Now, we could argue that the simple (or not to simple) act of breathing in and of itself was spectacular. For this point, I'm going beyond that Sunday School train of thought.

The reality was that he didn't have much of a story to tell. Nothing exciting. He could have spoken for every single body in the room, including myself. I'm reminded of the Francis Chan quote, "the way you live your days is the way you live your life". For those of us stuck in the ruts of the mundane that truth should hurt.

Spectacularity is hopefully brewing more in my own life. As we welcome a new baby into our family, it's been a time of "rest". Well, a rest from typical ministries like barn church, Holler days, camp stuff etc... It's served as a time of relaxation, prayer and study. As usual, I take such an opportunity to examine our life and ministry. I always want to make sure we stay on track with God's word.

I began to wonder what the ministries of the new testament were. I started with Acts. We see preaching of the gospel, exorcism, miracles, preaching of the gospel, baptism, strengthening others in the Holy Spirit, preaching of the Gospel, praying, healing, preaching of the gospel, encouraging the church, feed the poor, preaching of the gospel etc...

The point is that preaching the gospel seems to be the central mark of the early church's love for God and people. All other ministries seemed to revolve around that. As a result, the apostles live spectacular lives.

Hey, Saint Paul, how was your day? Spectacular! Why? Because I preached the gospel.

Do they know it's Christmas?

2009-12-03T22:06:00.008-05:00

Do your children know it's Christmas time?

Of course they do!

But do these children know its Christmas time?

As the song goes,

It's Christmastime
There's no need to be afraid
At Christmastime, we let in light and we banish shade
And in our world of plenty we can spread a smile of joy
Throw your arms around the world at Christmastime

But say a prayer

Pray for the other ones
At Christmastime it's hard, but when you're having fun
There's a world outside your window
And it's a world of dread and fear
Where the only water flowing is the bitter sting of tears
And the Christmas bells that ring there are the clanging
chimes of doom
Well tonight thank God it's them instead of you

And there won't be snow in Africa this Christmastime
The greatest gift they'll get this year is life
(Oooh) Where nothing ever grows
No rain nor rivers flow
Do they know it's Christmastime at all?

(Here's to you) raise a glass for everyone
(Here's to them) underneath that burning sun
Do they know it's Christmastime at all?

Feed the world
Feed the world

Feed the world

Let them know it's Christmastime again

Feed the world
Let them know it's Christmastime again

World Aids day.

2009-12-01T17:48:00.001-05:00

Did you know that today is World AIDS Day?

Here's an update from Tom Davis of Children's Hope Chest:

In the African nations where we work, there is a generation of AIDS orphans left behind. It fuels not only extreme poverty, but child abuse and sexual abuse of the worst kind.

In Russia, AIDS grows by the day, often helped along by sex trafficking of young girls from our orphanages.

Fortunately we can and are doing something in both cases.

On World AIDS Day, I just wanted to encourage you with two thoughts that I hope you'll pass along to your online friends through Facebook and Twitter. Or just repost this entire message...

1. HopeChest is protecting over 1,000 Russian orphans from sex trafficking and crime throughout our Ministry Center, Family Center, and Independent Living Center programs.

2. HopeChest is rescuing 10,000 orphans from extreme poverty by supporting feeding programs, health and education initiatives, and Christian discipleship throughout Ethiopia, Uganda, and Swaziland.

In those places, there is no sex trafficking or extreme poverty. We are making a difference.

One of the ways that happens is through 5 for 50 (http://www.5for50.com). This is a small way that just $5 can make a difference for someone who has been impacted by AIDS--particularly orphans in Africa.

Go to http://www.5for50.com to find out more about the 5 simple ways that YOU can make a difference in the global AIDS crisis.

And, be sure to pass that message of hope along to those who can join us.

Thanks so much for being on this journey with us.

Advent Conpiracy.

2009-11-29T16:52:00.005-05:00

It's that time of year again. Time to avoid the frenzy and give Jesus what He really wants. Your heart!? Yes, of course, but what does that look like in our culture? I think it looks something like advent conspiracy:

1.Give relationally this Christmas: Baked goods, cooked dinner, a car wash, a baby sitting coupon etc... From my experience these are much more meaningful and appreciated.

2. Take the money you saved (from opting out of gift buying) and give it to Jesus (through the least of these)

Did you know that Americans spend 450 billion on Christmas each year? It's estimated that it would take only 10 billion to solve the world's water crisis. What if you were thirsty and had no means of work, proper shelter or food and water? What if you hadn't heard of Jesus? Does God love them any less than He loves us?

Many might think this is crazy. Well, our tiny little American bubble needs to be popped!

Check out this article from the folks heading up the conspiracy:

One of my geekier hobbies is discovering the birthplace of an idea. I don’t know why it gives me such thrills to discover that the concept of the Slinky was a byproduct of research for an anti-vibration device used to stabilize sensitive equipment aboard ships in rough seas. But it does. I think it has to do with the thought that most ideas in their infancy are largely considered crazy. Think about all the “genius” ideas that wake you up in the middle of the night that actually sound downright insane once morning rolls around. I know I’ve had my share. But ideas, the real groundbreaking ones, are supposed to sound crazy, if not insane. Because if you’re going to break ground with a new thought, it can’t be some limping, half-hearted moment of ureka-ness. It has to be something that evokes passion and intrigue. It’s gotta be something so good that your conscience double dog dares you to go forward with it.

And so it was with Advent Conspiracy. I remember when my pastor told me that he and his buddies were looking to start a revolution of sorts. It was four and a half years ago and we were on a friend’s ski boat on a lake in Missouri. When he was finished telling me about the idea I nodded my head and said, “Huh. Well, that’s going to be interesting.” What I really meant was ARE YOU CRAZY? Now I know that term “revolution” has been batted around social justice groups a lot, but when he rolled out the idea I had to agree. This was going to be a revolution. To buck the system and actually avoid buying into the rabid frenzy of shopping at Christmas is one of those “sounds good on paper” ideas. But to live it out? Crazy.

Fast forward four and a half years. I just got off the phone with Stan Patyrak from Living Water International. I always know when Stan has big news for me because he get this real heavy tone, like the words themselves weigh 50 pounds and he can barely spit them out. He says to me, “Bro, I have some news. Because of Advent Conspiracy, about 340 wells have been drilled. Do you know what that means? That’s 200,000 people. It’s probably more than that, but, man, that’s 200,000 people!” My jaw dropped...those words did weigh 50 pounds. After a few tearful words, I hung up and thanked God. I thanked God for letting us play a role in serving those who Jesus would call “the least of these”. I thanked Him for my pastor and the other two pastors who started this movement for their wisdom and passion. I thanked God for allowing me to be alive and witness something this powerful. I thanked Him for showing me how good it can feel to give relationally. And finally, I thanked him for crazy. For crazy ideas that give people clean water and for crazy people like you who get behind these ideas. Thank God for crazy. Let the Christmas season begin.

Kisses from Katie.

2009-11-26T09:01:00.003-05:00

We came across a story last night that took away an hours sleep. I was absolutely floored to see this young girl being used so mightily by the Lord. I couldn't help but think that I've stumbled upon a modern Teresa. Makes me think. What am I doing?

It is my 16th Birthday and I am eating sushi at my favorite restaurant with my parents when I tell them that I would like to explore the possibility of taking a year in between high school and college to do mission work. This is unheard of in my family and they say they are not sure and will think about it. I am nervous, but somehow I know it is right. He changes their hearts.

I have just turned 18 and find an orphanage online. I beg my parents to let me visit over break, just three weeks. A month later I am on a plane. I am so excited. I am so scared of being, but I know He is going with me. I fall in love.

I graduate high school having made the commitment to teach Kindergarten for a year at a school in The Middle of Nowhere, Uganda. In August I get on the plane. I’m apprehensive and I cry most of the way because I miss my Mommy and my boyfriend. I am eager, but so uncertain. I trust Him. I teach 138 children how to speak English and to love Jesus.

It is October and I am just not sure I can do it anymore. I live in the smallest room I have ever seen in the back of a pastor’s house. I am more uncomfortable than I had bargained for. No one understands, not people here, not people at home. I am tired. But I am prideful and I am not going to quit. I don’t like this. But I know He has a plan. I learn, I grow, He is there.

It is December and God has spoken very clearly about opening a ministry that sponsors 40 of the orphaned children in the village where I am working. This involves moving into a different house, ALONE. It is big and I cannot imagine how God will fill it up. I am lonely and I am anxious. But I am still trusting. He fills the house, and we now have 400 children sponsored.

It is January and I am looking at a little girl, crushed under a brick wall with no one to care for her or her younger siblings. I offer to take the three home with me until we find them a better placement. I am not really sure what to do with them, but I know they are God’s children. They stay.

It is three days later and the littlest looks at me and calls me mommy. My heart might break in two. Something clicks. I am even more scared than I was the day I stepped on that plane, but I KNOW. Today I have 13.

I have to deliver a baby, give a boy stitches, pull a tooth, give and injection. I am petrified. But no one will do it if I do not. He is present, He holds my hand, they are all fine.

It is August and I must get on a plane back to America to go to college, as I have promised my father. I do not remember how to be a teenager or what it is to be normal Brentwood, Tennessee. I will have to leave my babies. I will have to make new friends. I am sad and I am terrified. He wraps His arms around me. He puts just the right people in just the right places, and they help me and they make me feel at home.

First semester is over and He speaks clearly to me that I cannot serve two masters. “Go HOME,” He says, “and stay.” I am uncertain, but I want to be obedient. He squeezes tighter. I am thankful.

I have to look at my loving parents who have given me everything and tell them that I will not go to college right now, because I feel God wants me to be in Uganda. I know how disappointed and how angry they will be. I am more scared than I was when I got on the plane and more scared than I was when I took my first children. But I know that this IS the Plan. They love me anyway.

It is February and my daughter’s biological father comes to take her away. My heart breaks in half, and I am not sure I will ever be able to get out of my bed again, let alone foster another child. I am more than devastated, but I want what is best for her, what He wants for her. She comes back and her biological father learns about Jesus.

It is March and a lame little girl is brought to my gate. She is undoubtedly mine, but I am still anxious. What if I can’t do it? I don’t know what to do with a special needs child, especially as my 13th child. I am criticized and ridiculed. I wonder. I trust and praise God for her sweet little life. She starts to walk.

I find myself in a village full of starving people that for some reason seem to want to kill me. God says to serve them anyway. I am not sure how it is going to work, or if it is safe. I can’t figure it out, but I know He can. 1,200 Karamajongs, the poorest of Uganda’s poor, are now served hot meals daily.

We keep taking in more children until there are 400 in our program. There is no way we will raise enough funds, but by now I have stopped worrying. He has always provided. Blessings rain from the sky, and all 400 children go to school.

I am 20 years old and have 13 children and 400 more who all depend on me for their care. Who are all learning to love Jesus and be responsible adults and looking up to me. The reality of it all can be a bit overwhelming at times. However, it is always pure joy. There is a common misconception that I am courageous. I will be the first to tell you that this is not actually true. Most of the time, I am not brave. I just believe in a God who will use me even though I am not. Most mornings, before I even get out of bed I am overwhelmed with His goodness, with His plan for my life; I stand in awe of the fact that He could entrust me with so much. Most days, I don’t have much of a plan. I don’t always know where this is going. I can’t see the end of the road, but here is the great part: Courage is not about knowing the path. It is about taking the first step. It is about Peter, getting out of the boat. I do not know my five year plan; even tomorrow will probably not go as I have planned. I am thrilled and I am terrified, in a good way. So some call it courage, some call it foolish, I call it Faith. I choose to get out of the boat. To take the next step. Sometimes I walk straight into His arms. More often, I get scared and look down and stumble. Sometimes I almost completely drown. And through it all, He never lets go of my hand.

For more on Katie, you can follow her blog: Kisses from Katie.

Josiah's birth pictures.

2009-11-23T14:48:00.002-05:00

Check out more pictures here.

Are you a believer?

2009-11-22T16:28:00.002-05:00

"Yes", the demon replied.

How many babies?

2009-11-19T21:15:00.003-05:00

I always wondered what it would be like to go from 1 baby to 2. Everyone I talked to had a different answer.

One thing that no one ever mentioned, is that I would actually have a total of 4 babies upon the birth of my second son. There's the obvious one, Josiah. He's not that hard though, as he's sleeping and nursing great and has a good temperament so far. Then there's the big brother Jonah. He's doing great as well. The picture in the last blog says it all: He's an excited, easy going big brother. It does seem like he's touching more stuff now. It's definitely harder to keep him supervised and filled with attention now days.

Then, the 2 surprise babies come out of the woodwork. Momma and Pappa. Momma, not because she's a wimp. Actually, she's my hero and has proven to be one of the bravest, toughest woman I know. She's handling this like a trooper. She is, however, beat up. As you might imagine she's extremely sore after delivering the classically large and durable Rhodes head. This has been the most difficult part of new babies. So far, Momma has been severely beaten after each one. With Jonah, it was an emergency C-section. With Josiah... let's just say the midwife hadn't seen so much damage in all of her 33 years of practice.

Perhaps the most surprising baby to come out of this new miracle of life would be me. It's in the scary and trying moments where you feel the true colors coming out. Sometimes those colors happen to be shaded in grey. I saw a fragile faith as my wife nearly wore out and nearly had to go to the hospital. Now, as I care for her I see my impatience and selfishness try and flood to the surface. I'm still so very young in my faith... like a baby.

New family!

2009-11-17T19:35:00.006-05:00

We're all doing well. Thank you for your prayers during this exciting time. Momma is extremely sore from the long pushing session and all the tearing. We're all very proud of her. So far, Josiah has been a good baby. He's nursing good, sleeping well, and hasn't cried that much! His big brother Jonah is handling the new role great.

2009-11-16T10:09:00.002-05:00

This is a friend writing for Justin and Rebekah. Great news! Baby Josiah James born at home at the Holler this morning at 8:12... weighing 8 lbs, 20 3/4 in long! Praise God for He is so good! He granted them the desires of their hearts. It was a long and hard labor, but Mama and baby are doing great. Please pray for healing for Mama. Thank you for all your prayers thus far. They will now covet your prayers as they have the responsibility of raising two sons! What an honor and blessing!

Baptisms and baby!

2009-11-15T20:45:00.003-05:00

Today has proven to be an exciting day here at the Holler.

Rebekah is "overdue" with Josiah and has experienced minor contractions for the last several days. Honestly, we've thought she was in labor 4 times, but to no avail.

Tired of waiting, we set out on a 2 mile walk, then we took a ride on the tractor and finally we sat down to laugh with the apostles of comedy. Something worked! At 3pm she began labor.

At 4:30pm the contractions were still minor enough that we could enjoy 7 baptisms here at the Holler! REJOICE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The new residents Burton, Ashely and Lindsey had never gotten baptised after their conversion. That's the same story for Ryan, one of our discipleship house residents. Burton's niece also got baptized and 2 others sporadically came forward to get dunked!

As for the labor, it's been progressing rather gradually since then, but has definitely gotten a bit more intense. She's doing well and we're all in good spirits.

Please pray that we'll be strong and courageous. If you want to put icing on that cake, pray for a quick and healthy delivery.

Life isn't good.

2009-11-14T21:04:00.004-05:00

A young woman, admittedly bipolar, opened up with me on Friday at the Storehouse. She had just been informed that her daughter has developmental issues. I wish you could have seen her face, reflecting the deep pit of despair.

Life isn't good.

Later, an older lady came in with her 24 yr old daughter. As the receptionist went through the standard questions she asked, "are you disabled?", to which she replied, "yes, I can't read or write". As she was admiring Jonah I asked if she could remember when her girl was that small. She said, "yes! Now they're all grown up, just look outside at her". I obeyed and saw puffs of cigarette smoke billowing out of the overly rusted town car.

Life isn't good.

Tonight I'm reading Jonah a story from the Gospel for Asia magazine and I see a beautiful young girl dressed in rags, crimped hair and dirt all over her body. No hope in her eyes.

Life isn't good.

On top of their physical misery, I saw no hope in their eyes for Jesus. Life isn't good. Above the picture of the girl I saw the famous Bob Pierce quote,

"Let my heart be broken by the things that break the heart of God"

One step closer.

2009-11-13T21:17:00.002-05:00

"I see the cross - There teach my heart to cling". That's a line from a hymn that's been dominating my prayer life lately.

I pray that I'll begin seeing the cross in everyone and everything I encounter. Let me imagine a tiny old rugged right on the forehead of others. Let me see see the beams of dogwood on every task I do. Let me see the grains of wisdom in every decision I must make.

I would like to see everyone and everything as an opportunity to take one step closer to Jesus, or one step away. Everything we do and encounter presents us with an opportunity to advance down the path of fellowship with Christ or further down the path of self destruction.

I pray that I see others and tomorrow's chores as stepping stones to fellowship with my Savior.

Believe or Obey?

2009-11-12T20:44:00.004-05:00

Brother Levi posted an amazingly thought provoking blog on the commands to believe AND obey our risen Lord. Here it is. He makes some very good points, and it's well worth your time to check out. It calls me to examine my own life:

I believe that sweets are bad for me, expensive and unnecessary for life, yet I eat one to two a day.

I believe in self discipline and aim to rise with the sun at 6:30, but I constantly oversleep.

I believe in debt free living, yet bills go overdue.

I believe in worry free living, yet I'm anxious all the time.

I believe in unity, yet I still argue.

I believe in love, yet I still hate.

I believe in Jesus Christ, yet I don't obey!

The belief that Abba desires is that of obedience. The demons believe! In fact, they believe so strongly, they shudder! Have you ever shuddered? I haven't. The demons believe, yet they're frying in hell. What's the difference? We must believe better than demons? How?

True Grits! Grits must be accompanied with butter or they're no good. The Bible clearly states that faith without works is dead (no good). Where's the line of true belief? If you're asking that, you're probably way off. It's like tip toeing up to the boundary lines and pushing the limit. True grit believers run for the fences and never look back. No compromises.

Amy Sphar's tried and true laying her life down in the uncomfortable and unknown.
Tammy Elrick, no doubt, has the goods submitting her life to the care of orphans.
Machiah's living from house to house on less than $600 a year preaching the gospel.
Brody Halloway is working tirelessly night and day to disciple 100 plus young people.

Just as southerners know true grits when they taste them, we ought to know true grit believers when we meet them. Actually, their should be no divisions. We should all be laying down our lives for Jesus or we're not really even Christian. Father likes His grits with butter.

Are you in labor.

2009-11-11T21:13:00.004-05:00

I thought it would be funny to call everyone right about now just to see how they're doing. Why? Because every time one of us calls someone they ask, "are you in labor?".

Just yesterday we got 5 calls to see if we were in labor. I do appreciate the love! It's a question we asked on Friday night when Rebekah had a series of semi powerful contractions. We don't think she was in labor, she was just set off by a very bumpy truck ride.

Tonight she's been having very minor contractions sporadically for several hours. We want to get excited, but we don't want to get our hopes up either.

I just went to the bathroom and thought I was having a baby! Does that count? I've never felt so much pressure, no lie. A new found respect for mothers, it must be 100 times more intense.

There's no use in calling. If we are in labor, the ringer is off. Most of you will likely find out through an email, text or phone call anyway. Don't worry, we won't forget ya.

Spirit of God, Descend upon my heart.

2009-11-10T21:37:00.003-05:00

There's been some talk about baptism in the Holy Spirit. If you're like me, that phrase may bring mixed feelings. It seems to mean different things for different people. Interpretations and implications of the phrase has caused lots of confusion and even division among our fellow brothers and sisters.

There's no doubt Christ baptizes with the Holy Spirit, as it's promised in all the 4 gospels. There's 2 more verses on it in Acts referring to Pentecost and finally Paul lays it out more broadly in a letter to the Corinthians in Chapter 12, verse 13. The debates occur over when the baptism happens today (conversion or post conversion), and if post conversion (should we seek it).

Regardless of how any of us feel about it, I think we could all agree: We could all use a little more. Jesus promised that if we ask for the Holy Spirit He'd give it to us. In my recent studies of the Holy Spirit Baptism I came across this amazing hymn. Let it be our prayer tonight:

Spirit of God, descend upon my heart;
wean it from earth; through all its pulses move;
stoop to my weakness, mighty as thou art,
and make me love thee as I ought to love.

I ask no dream, no prophet ecstasies,
no sudden rending of the veil of clay,
no angel visitant, no opening skies;
but take the dimness of my soul away.

Has thou not bid me love thee, God and King?
All, all thine own, soul, heart and strength and mind.
I see thy cross; there teach my heart to cling.
O let me seek thee, and O let me find.

Teach me to feel that thou art always nigh;
teach me the struggles of the soul to bear.
To check the rising doubt, the rebel sigh,
teach me the patience of unanswered prayer.

Teach me to love thee as thine angels love,
one holy passion filling all my frame;
the kindling of the heaven-descended Dove,
my heart an altar, and thy love the flame.

A quick update.

2009-11-09T20:41:00.004-05:00

Camp
October and November was a time of camp promotion. I called youth workers I knew and set up a couple of promo lunches. I had hoped to have several pre-registration forms by the end of October, but I have none. Discouraging, but I have hope in the handful of semi-serious prospects for next year. Just because they haven't signed up yet doesn't necessarily mean it won't happen.

Community
We had new residents move into the Hill house at the end of October! Burton and Ashely Salthouse will live in the discipleship house as house parents to Ryan and Scott (and any others who may come our way).

Brackin and Lindsey (and their son Forrest) Kirkland are sleeping in an RV outside of the Hillhouse and will share living space in the Hill house during the day. They too will disciple the young boys and be a nice contribution to the community.

Both couples show interest in long term commitment to Holler Ministries and together they bring an incredibly youthful energy. They show passion for the Lord and are eager to serve him with the entirety of their lives.

The Farm
We just wrapped up our 1st season of Salad Bar Beef! Many customers went in on the 4 Angus cows to make sure they have high quality beef this year (and next). Turns out
A1 wasn't pregnant (thank God), so we were able to butcher all of the cows.
This was a huge blessing, not only for our freezer, but for our finances. We've ran into some surprise vehicle and other high cost expenses. This couldn't come at a better time.

Josiah Show
Josiah is due today, but he's not here yet. We finally got the house ready 3 days ago, and now feel as ready as we'll ever be.

A post for Dorothy.

2009-11-08T19:25:00.003-05:00

This one's for you Dorothy. We're striving to find balance in our lives. We're simplifying so that we can be more effective for the Kingdom. Maybe the blogs won't quit, maybe they will. In some aspects I'm don't want to read and write anymore, I just want to do.

I'm not suspecting this in you, but I definitely don't want this blog to be another source of inspiration in which someone DOESN'T act upon.

To be honest, I'm pretty hot at this moment. I've been seeing a lot of talk and "worship", but no REAL worship - presenting our bodies as living sacrifices.

CHEERS TO TAMMY, your daughter! She makes me tear up with pure pride and joy. In the midst of her beautiful prime, she lays it all down for Christ's sake. She works tirelessly night and day, 7 days a week. She takes orders humbly, without question and smells of the aroma of Jesus! Her gentle serving spirit sends demons running. I wish more people could walk in Tammy's shoes (as we did for 3 months).

While American "Christians" "worship" several times a week, work tirelessly to make ends meet (2 cars, cell phones, TV service, the mall, eating out...) and barely accomplishing a good deed, others are actually laying down their lives for something more valuable, like the Kingdom.

Cheers to Tammy for not wasting her life. I hope I can visit her room in Heaven! It will take 100's of years to see all of the wonderful treasures.

What a treasure you and she are. Thank you both for your service to the Lord. It's people like her, Amy and Teresa that will let me rest easy tonight. Were are all the men? The world has enough boys. It's time to be men.

Sin, wrath, mercy and love

2009-10-21T21:43:00.001-05:00

by Paul Washer:

Amy goes bye bye.

2009-10-13T21:16:00.003-05:00

This morning we saw our dear friend, Amy off to India! What's she going to do? She'll be Jesus, to Jesus as she serves at Freedom house. It's a place for woman, who might otherwise be forced to have an abortion, can safely have their babies.

How long is she going? Well, she's got a one way ticket and a 10 year visa! UNKNOWN. She's venturing into the unknown. Isn't that was good stories are made out of? We're so proud of her.

You can keep up with her journal at, http://tribespahr.blogspot.com/

Facebook goes bye bye.

2009-10-09T21:26:00.002-05:00

Top 5 Reasons I'm getting rid of facebook:

1. Simplify my life to become less dependent on the internet.
2. Encourages more intentional contacts through email, phone or face to face.
3. Frees me up a bit more to focus on the 3D social network in front of me.
4. Avoid raunchy ads that simply don't stop showing up.
5. "A man of too many friends comes to ruin..." I had 217. Are they all really my friends? I'm looking for a "friend that sticks closer than a brother"
6. My friends (that stick closer than a brother) are doing it.

Everything has a season.

2009-09-29T20:50:00.004-05:00

The blog posts are slowing down. It's a climatic time of the year for us. Our biggest event (the open house) is coming up, Rebekah is due in 6 weeks, I'm promoting Holler camps and winter preparations are underway. On top of that we're praying for God to fill the Hill house and I'm trying to finish a fence before winter.

I'm in the processing seeking God for His voice. I want to hear Him! I most likely have too many distractions in my life. Can I really hear Him over the Internet, cell phone and Netflix account? Can I really hear Him if I'm ALWAYS busy?

I'm seeking the Lord on all of this, but in the mean time the blog posts will slow down. Right now, my priorities are fearing God and getting ready for this baby. Everything has a season.

Someone's listening!

2009-09-26T22:41:00.004-05:00

Yesterday, a fellow brother handed me a wad of cash! This was no ordinary folded bill, this was a giant wad. You know what they said as they handed me the green? “God told me to give this to you”. Wow, that’s encouraging! Someones recognizing and listening to God's gentle blow!

The gift went well beyond financial as well, as I was also able to lay out some of my burdens. It appears that I “went back” to the hill house because I poured out some of the disappointments and worry about the future for it. I was highly encouraged by his listening ears and truthful teachings in regards to the devil and his schemes to discourage. He too, poured out some struggles and we were able to carry each others burdens for the moment. There was something extremely peaceful about the entire situation. We needed that.

Later, I counted the wad... $600!!!! That’s a peculiar amount since the Holler will have that due withing the next couple of weeks! That still small voice saved the day! Propts to all you folks taking in the "breeze"!

Are you listening?

2009-09-25T22:30:00.003-05:00

“the Lord was not in the wind...the earthquake...(or) the fire...”, but the Lord was in the "gentle blowing" 1 Kings 19:11-12

Several weeks ago Rebekah was inquiring of the Lord about the hill house and she heard an audible reply, “wait”. The next day I enquired of the Lord to see just how long we should wait. Seven days seemed to be the answer. Chomping at the bits for plan B, I waited the entire week just as Abba had suggested. On day 8 we still had no takers, so I took it to the Lord in prayer. We had asked a dozen couples/individuals but we were only getting “nibbles”, and no real bites.

I asked Jesus what I should do and in his vaguely simple character he replied, “leave it”. I struggled some more and realized I needed to leave it figuratively and literally for a time. I gave it to God and called my Dad (the land lord) to offer it back. Please understand this is simplified in this blog. It’s hard to communicated all the tears, struggles and doubts that go on between these moments I’ve captured in text.

In this instance, I’ve done everything Abba has told me to do, yet no one’s coming. I’m fairly certain He wants a fellow believer here, so could it be that someone’s not listening and responding to Gods still quiet voice? Why must they look for signs in “fire, wind and earthquakes” and not sit still for a moment in His gentleness? In the end, Father will have His way and everything will work together for the good of those who love Him. I try not to worry.