Prayer Initiative - Day 13
One of the ways that LBC can serve the city is by partnering with the excellent student ministries that are active on nearby campuses. Like Paul in Colossians 4:3, these missionaries are trusting God to open doors for the gospel.
Colossians 4:2-3
"Continue steadfastly in prayer, being watchful in it with thanksgiving. At the same time, pray also for us, that God may open to us a door for the word…"
Today's Prayer Focus
- For Intervarsity Christian Fellowship at Rollins College, and their outreach on Friday, September 11. Zack Baldwin leads the ministry.
- For Reformed University Fellowship (RUF) at UCF as they begin to reach out to students on Aug 24. Pray for Lee Wright as he directs the work, and for his new intern, Savannah.
- For CRU at UCF as they engage in evangelism and discipleship. Jeremy Reddy leads the work. Pray for reliance on the Spirit’s power.
- hank God for the successful summer Bible study for college students at LBC, led by Noah Gomez. Thank God for the college students who will be going through our new members’ class Aug 21-22. Pray for Desiree Kitsmiller (UCF), Bailey Welch (Rollins), and Anthony Indorato (Rollins) as they start classes soon.
"Open Doors on Campus"
Mike Tilley
One of the ways that LBC can serve the city is by partnering with the excellent student ministries that are active on nearby campuses. Like Paul in Colossians 4:3, these missionaries are trusting God to open doors for the gospel. Our church has benefited from the fruit of gospel ministry on the UCF campus. John Hutchings, who is active in our church in many ways, came to faith through the work of RUF at UCF a few years ago.
Why pray for open doors on the campuses? UCF is one of the largest universities in the country, so the potential for the kingdom is strong. Rollins College has a history of being reluctant to allow evangelical ministries on campus. The Intervarsity group actually operates off campus for now, and they work to maintain positive public relations with the administration. So on both campuses, there is a need for prayer.
We believe that college students, over time, will benefit from worship and fellowship at a church such as Lake Baldwin Church. Pray for our partnership with these groups, partnerships that will gain even greater traction when God raises up an assistant pastor at LBC.
Mike Tilley is the senior pastor of Lake Baldwin Church, and has lived in Orlando since 1994. He and his wife, Molly, worked with a core group from the Baldwin Park community to plant Lake Baldwin Church in 2006. Mike loves teaching the Bible in a way that relates to real life. In his spare time, Mike enjoys good movies, long dinner with friends, snow skiing, hanging out with his kids and two granddaughters, and travel.
Prayer Initiative - Day 12
There’s hope when we can weep with those who weep, come alongside those who are suffering loss, and discover the gifts in each person.
2 Corinthians 4:7
"But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing greatness of the power belongs to God and not us."
Today's Prayer Focus
- For the treasure of the gospel of Christ to shine brightly on the parts of us that are weak and broken.
- For a church culture that embraces all people regardless of their limits and liabilities; a culture that sees the value of the weak as well as the strong.
- For friends you know in the church who are feeling overwhelmed by their own limits, or the realities of life—young moms; those experiencing loss of a loved one, a marriage, or a job; all of us when we wrestle with failure; and all who need the love and care of the church family.
- For humility in all of our church ministries, relying on the power of God and not on our having it all together.
"Jars of Clay"
Mike Tilley
It’s quite a miracle that God has chosen to use broken vessels, jars of clay, to advance his work in the world, and to display his power. Over the years, it’s been difficult to bump up against my limits, and I’ve struggled with the tension between the “ideal me” and the “real me.” Only the gospel breaks that prideful fever in me, and restores me to reality and sanity.
I love the many ways that people at Lake Baldwin Church embrace and accept one another in times of weakness. There’s hope when we can weep with those who weep, come alongside those who are suffering loss, and discover the gifts in each person.
The Old Testament story of Ruth is such a picture of this. Ruth had liabilities in her culture: she was a woman, a Moabite, and a widow. But those “weaknesses” became powerful in the hands of God. Bethlehem was changed, and kings came from her, including the King of all kings. Today, if you are feeling tired and weak, if you feel that you don’t measure up, if you feel inadequate, take courage from the truth of 2 Corinthians 4:7. He shows his power in jars of clay.
Mike Tilley is the senior pastor of Lake Baldwin Church, and has lived in Orlando since 1994. He and his wife, Molly, worked with a core group from the Baldwin Park community to plant Lake Baldwin Church in 2006. Mike loves teaching the Bible in a way that relates to real life. In his spare time, Mike enjoys good movies, long dinner with friends, snow skiing, hanging out with his kids and two granddaughters, and travel.
Prayer Initiative - Day 11
In this "new day" in global missions, a young church in Orlando such as LBC, with a global vision and a sovereign God, can have a part in reaching the nations.
Acts 17:26-27
"And he made from one man every nation of mankind to live on the face of the earth, having determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place, that they should seek God, in the hope that they might feel their way toward him and find him."
Today's prayer focus
- Thank God for the recent LBC mission trip to Cabo St. Lucas, Mexico, as well as members who have gone to Asia, Latin America, Africa, and Slovakia this summer.
- Pray for our efforts to serve a growing network of international churches in Europe, specifically the ICC Pastors Retreat Oct 19-23. The goal for this year is 40 pastors.
- For the LBC Global Missions Team as they arrange for future mission trips, and as they trust the Lord for the day when our church can work with partners to plant a church overseas.
- For LBC folks based in Orlando but bringing resources overseas, such as Don Dearing who is currently in London leading a team that is reaching out to Middle Easterners on vacation there. For Ross and Lindsay Stowers, serving long-term in Italy.
"A New Day in Global Missions"
Mike Tilley
The spread of the gospel in the 1st century was helped by the Roman road, trade routes, the influence of cities, and common Greek, the language of the New Testament. In the 1500s, the Reformation swept Europe on the heels of a technology breakthrough, the Gutenberg printing press. In our “new day" in global missions, innovative missions leaders have divine opportunities thanks to globalization, the Internet, and the use of English as a common language.
For example, the nations of the world are coming to Europe. International churches are rising to the occasion, reaching out to expats, immigrants, and nationals. A year ago last June, an Afghan immigrant was baptized in the faith by an American pastor serving a church in Munich. Holding services in English, the church has 60 nations represented, and 25% of the attendees are Germans.
We have an amazing God! As we read in Acts 17:16, He has “determined allotted periods and the boundaries of their dwelling place.” In this "new day" in global missions, a young church in Orlando such as LBC, with a global vision and a sovereign God, can have a part in reaching the nations.
Mike Tilley is the senior pastor of Lake Baldwin Church, and has lived in Orlando since 1994. He and his wife, Molly, worked with a core group from the Baldwin Park community to plant Lake Baldwin Church in 2006. Mike loves teaching the Bible in a way that relates to real life. In his spare time, Mike enjoys good movies, long dinner with friends, snow skiing, hanging out with his kids and two granddaughters, and travel.
Prayer Initiative - Day 10
Grace past frees us from sin and grace future gives us a reason to live for God so that grace transforms our lives in the present.
Titus 2:11-14
"For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people, training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age, waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works."
Today's Prayer Focus
- For the grace of God to bring salvation to friends and family.
- For the grace of God to transform our hearts in new ways.
- For the grace of God to strengthen our hearts for good works.
“The Lifelong School of Grace”
Mike Glodo
Every Christian has a teacher and her name is “Grace.” Titus 2:11-14 tells us that “the grace of God has appeared ... training [teaching] us…” The “school of Grace” has three grade levels, but it is a school we attend our whole life long.
Grace past: Jesus “gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works” (v. 14). By faith in Jesus Christ, all is forgiven. Grace past makes us God’s own. The freshman lesson in the school of grace is one that must remembered and believed our whole lives, for it’s easy to forget or doubt God’s grace past.
Grace future: The senior year in the school of grace is grace future, for God’s grace teaches us to wait “for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ” (v. 13). The world is not yet the way God will make it one day. Neither are we. Living in the Christian hope means believing that Christ will return and transform this broken world into one of peace, justice and joy. The vales of tears and death will become spring-watered gardens (Rev 21; Rom 8:18-25). Living in Christian hope turns life’s deepest disappointments into homework, teaching us that this world will one day be more than we can imagine and everything we could desire.
Grace now: The middle year in the school of grace depends upon the prerequisites of grace past and grace future. Grace has appeared, “training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passion, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in the present age” (v 12). Grace has redeemed us “from all lawlessness” and purified us to become people “who are zealous for good works” (v 14). Grace past frees us from sin and grace future gives us a reason to live for God so that grace transforms our lives in the present.
I spent many hours as a child hanging laundry on the clothesline for my mother. She had a good, stout, clothesline strung between metal poles, anchored by concrete. Therefore it could bear the weight of new-washed clothes, to dry them in the bright sunlight. God has given us two stout poles between which to live grace-transformed lives. Christ has come. Christ will come again. Therefore, by God’s grace, we will live for Him now.
Rev. Michael J. Glodo teaches Old and New Testament courses as well as courses in practical theology at Reformed Theological Seminary in Oviedo, FL. The diversity of the courses Professor Glodo teaches reflects his diverse research and ministry interests. He is passionate about Old and New Testament studies and ministry philosophy, particularly regarding worship and liturgy. In addition to serving six years as the Stated Clerk for the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, he also served in pastoral roles at churches in the St. Louis region. He and his wife, Vicki, have a daughter, Rachel, and son, Samuel.
Prayer Initiative - Day 9
As we move, by faith, toward the goal of hiring an Assistant Pastor, we believe that this step will add to our capacity to extend the reach of the gospel, to foster a growing spiritual movement among young adults, and to pursue many other providential opportunities.
Acts 16:1-3
"Paul came also to Derbe and Lystra. A disciple was there, named Timothy, the son of a Jewish woman who was a believer, but his father was a Greek. He was well spoken of by the brothers at Lystra and Iconium. Paul wanted Timothy to accompany him..."
Today's Prayer Focus
- For the right person to be called by God for our assistant pastor position.
- For our search team to be of one mind, prayerfully seeking God and considering candidates. The group meets tonight for a decision meeting.
- For practical details to be worked out, and for long-term gospel fruit from this new hire.
- For God’s financial provision as our church takes this next step together.
"Adding to the Team for the Sake of the Gospel"
Mike Tilley
The book of Acts tells the story of the work of the Holy Spirit to extend the reach of the gospel from Jerusalem, to Judea and Samaria, and to the remotest parts of the earth (Acts 1:8). The result was a growing network of flourishing churches in the Greek and Roman world. As the work expanded, the apostle Paul added to his team, building the capacity to seize God-given opportunities.
Timothy joined the team, and was part of the church-planting effort at places like Thessalonica, the subject of our preaching series this summer. He went on to serve as the local pastor in Ephesus, and the letters of 1 and 2 Timothy were written during his season of ministry there.
Over the past couple of years, our leadership has developed a shared vision for making a long-term hire, adding to our pastoral staff. As we move in this direction by faith, we believe that this step will add to our capacity to extend the reach of the gospel, to foster a growing spiritual movement among young adults, and to pursue many other providential opportunities. We invite our entire congregation to pray and to share in these dreams for the future of mission to which God has called Lake Baldwin Church.
Mike Tilley is the senior pastor of Lake Baldwin Church, and has lived in Orlando since 1994. He and his wife, Molly, worked with a core group from the Baldwin Park community to plant Lake Baldwin Church in 2006. Mike loves teaching the Bible in a way that relates to real life. In his spare time, Mike enjoys good movies, long dinner with friends, snow skiing, hanging out with his kids and two granddaughters, and travel.
Prayer Initiative - Day 8
Throughout Scripture, in both Old and New Testaments, we see how God has a concern for both parents and children. Jesus famously said, “Let the children come to me” (Matthew 19:14).
Acts 2:39
"For the promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself."
Today's Prayer Focus:
- For seeds of the gospel to come alive in the hearts of children in SPLASH.
- For children in SPLASH to feel loved, have fun, and ask questions.
- For volunteers in SPLASH to be energized; for a full team of volunteers.
- For families in our church to be encouraged.
- For families who attended Kids Camp; that they will be sparked to come to our church.
- For Michelle Crouse and her family as she leads our SPLASH ministry.
"The Promise for the Children"
Mike Tilley
Isn’t it amazing that our children are included in the covenant promises that God makes to his people? Throughout Scripture, in both Old and New Testaments, we see how God has a concern for both parents and children. Jesus famously said, “Let the children come to me” (Matthew 19:14).
Our SPLASH effort is an expression of this vision, of God’s heart for children. Today we can give thanks to God for the many people in Lake Baldwin Church who work alongside Michelle Crouse to sow seeds of the gospel in the hearts of children. The beautiful story of Jesus is shared with children in an environment of security, fun, relationships, and love.
Imagine what it will be like, years from now, when children look back on their experience in SPLASH! Memories are being made that will last a lifetime. Your prayers today are a part of watering the seeds of the gospel that will bear fruit in the coming years.
Mike Tilley is the senior pastor of Lake Baldwin Church, and has lived in Orlando since 1994. He and his wife, Molly, worked with a core group from the Baldwin Park community to plant Lake Baldwin Church in 2006. Mike loves teaching the Bible in a way that relates to real life. In his spare time, Mike enjoys good movies, long dinner with friends, snow skiing, hanging out with his kids and two granddaughters, and travel.
Prayer Initiative - Day 7
We need the heart and courage of Mordecai, who saw that Esther was where God placed her, “for such a time as this.”
Esther 4:14
"And who knows but that you have come to your royal position for such a time as this?"
Today's Prayer Focus
- For all of us to fulfill God’s purpose where he has placed us: at work, in our neighborhoods, and in our efforts to seek the peace and blessing of the city.
- For the growth of our presence in Baldwin Park, and for the spiritual receptivity of those who do not yet have a church. Pray specifically for the many who will be moving into the new apartments at Harbor Park.
- For grace and wisdom for all of us to engage a rapidly changing culture.
- For insight to see and seize kairos moments (divine opportunities where God is at work).
"For Such a Time as This"
Mike Tilley
These days, particularly in America, Christians are often alarmed by a culture that is becoming secularized and more at odds with biblical Christianity. But our situation today might pale in comparison to what Queen Esther faced when Haman, a Persian vizier under King Ahaseurus, declared an edict to annihilate the Jews. We need the heart and courage of Mordecai, who saw that Esther was where God placed her, “for such a time as this.”
When we see God’s providence in each person that He has drawn to Lake Baldwin Church over the years, we thank God that he has brought them “for such a time as this.” When we think of 10,000 people living in Baldwin Park, and the new apartments going up right now, we believe that we are here “for such a time as this.” When we see people from LBC touching lives and shining Christ's light throughout the city, we believe that we are here “for such a time as this.”
Each Christian is God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand (Ephesians 2:10). As we pray together today, let’s be reminded that each of us has a place in God’s larger story. Knowing that God has a plan, and knowing that Jesus will build his church, we face a changing world with confident hope. Through eyes of faith, let us see the divine opportunities ahead of us in the coming months.
Mike Tilley is the senior pastor of Lake Baldwin Church, and has lived in Orlando since 1994. He and his wife, Molly, worked with a core group from the Baldwin Park community to plant Lake Baldwin Church in 2006. Mike loves teaching the Bible in a way that relates to real life. In his spare time, Mike enjoys good movies, long dinner with friends, snow skiing, hanging out with his kids and two granddaughters, and travel.
Prayer Initiative - Day 6
One of the ways that we are most like Jesus is when we serve one another.
John 13:14
"Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet."
Today's Prayer Focus
- For our deacons, who lead us to care for and serve one another. Pray for Scott Crocker as he begins to serve as chairman of the deacons.
- For all those who serve us on Sunday mornings: cafe team, greeters, set-up teams for worship and SPLASH, teachers, worship and A/V team.
- For gospel-inspired service to be part of the culture of our church, and for volunteer teams to be at full strength as we anticipate the excitement of the fall ministry season.
"Wash One Another's Feet"
Mike Tilley
When Jesus washed his disciples’ feet in the upper room, it was a beautiful foreshadowing of his work on the cross to cleanse us from our sins. “For the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give us life as a ransom for many.” (Mark 10:45) One of the ways that we are most like Jesus is when we serve one another.
The early church picked this up. When Paul wrote to commend widows who served faithfully, he highlighted their “washing the feet of the Lord’s people” (1 Timothy 5:10). Deacons, too, picked up the towel of service to lead the church in caring for the weak and in showing mercy to the needy.
One of the miracles of our church is the serving culture. That miracle is visible each Sunday morning when when we see a colorful SPLASH area for our kids, when we grab a coffee or a bottle of cold water, when we walk into a worship area that is comfortable and beautiful, when a greeter hands us a bulletin, or when we see song lyrics appearing on the screens.
When we wash one another’s feet, we display the love of Christ, demonstrated at that first foot-washing, and revealed even more perfectly at the cross.
Mike Tilley is the senior pastor of Lake Baldwin Church, and has lived in Orlando since 1994. He and his wife, Molly, worked with a core group from the Baldwin Park community to plant Lake Baldwin Church in 2006. Mike loves teaching the Bible in a way that relates to real life. In his spare time, Mike enjoys good movies, long dinner with friends, snow skiing, hanging out with his kids and two granddaughters, and travel.
Prayer Initiative - Day 5
We matter to God, so Jesus left the glories of heaven to come and pursue the lost sheep.
Luke 15:4
"Suppose one of you has a hundred sheep and loses one of them. Doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine in the open country and go after the lost sheep until he finds it?"
Today's Prayer Focus
- For God to give us the heart of Jesus for the lost, and for this love to compel us as we pursue the lost sheep.
- For many future occasions when we will celebrate the finding of lost sheep. Pray for people to come to know the Savior through the grace of the gospel.
- For upcoming bridge events to connect us meaningfully to the lost sheep, including the Ken Sande event (Oct 9-10) on the common ground topic of relationships.
- For new move-ins in Baldwin Park, for spiritual receptivity. Pray in advance for the many who will move into the new apartments being built at Harbor Park.
"The Lost Sheep"
Mike Tilley
Some years ago our family was enjoying a day at Disney World, when we looked around and did not see our youngest daughter. She was too young to find her way back to us, so we were concerned! She mattered so much to us that we dropped everything we were doing to find her. When we found our lost daughter, we were so relieved and so happy!
All of us were like our lost daughter at one point, spiritually. We were lost and without hope, and we didn’t know how to find our way to God. But we matter to God, so Jesus left the glories of heaven to come and pursue the lost sheep. In Luke 15, the Pharisees complained that Jesus was making friends with “sinners.” But Jesus replied that there was more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, than over ninety-nine righteous persons.
Perhaps this is a good pattern for us, as we pray and relate to people who are not yet followers of Jesus. Who knows what God might do as we pray for and become friends with people who matter greatly to him?
Mike Tilley is the senior pastor of Lake Baldwin Church, and has lived in Orlando since 1994. He and his wife, Molly, worked with a core group from the Baldwin Park community to plant Lake Baldwin Church in 2006. Mike loves teaching the Bible in a way that relates to real life. In his spare time, Mike enjoys good movies, long dinner with friends, snow skiing, hanging out with his kids and two granddaughters, and travel.
Prayer Initiative - Day 4
Jesus died for our unholiness, and now he wants to make us beautiful for when he comes to claim his bride.
1 Thessalonians 3:13
"May he strengthen your hearts so that you will be blameless and holy in the presence of our God and Father when our Lord Jesus comes with all his holy ones."
Today's Prayer Focus
- For the faithful preaching and teaching of God’s Word; in worship, in classes, in small groups, and in our private devotions.
- For the gracious work of the Holy Spirit in our sanctification, forming our hearts and lives more and more into the likeness of the Lord Jesus.
- For our elders, deacons, staff, small group leaders, SPLASH workers, youth leaders, and all who assist us in our journey toward spiritual growth and maturity in Christ.
"The Beauty of Holiness"
Mike Tilley
The word “holiness” has taken a beating over the years, and has become widely misunderstood and devalued. Too often it has become wrapped up in religious externals, hypocrisy, and self righteousness. Let’s recover the beauty of holiness.
Remember that the fall of mankind into sin was catastrophic. When sin came into the world, it brought with it human cruelty, selfishness, pride and ruin. One way of thinking about holiness is that God is renewing his image in us (Colossians 3:10). He wants to make us new in Christ. Sanctification simply means to be made holy. The Word of God plays a big role in that: “Sanctify them by the truth. Thy word is truth.” (John 17:17) That’s why we pray for sanctifying influences of God’s Word throughout our church.
When we pray for the church to be holy, we are praying that the bride of Christ will be ready for her husband when he returns (Ephesians 5:25-27). Jesus died for our unholiness, and now he wants to make us beautiful for when he comes to claim his bride. As we sing in the hymn, The Church’s One Foundation: “From heaven he came and sought her to be his holy bride; with his own blood he bought her, and for her life he died.”
Mike Tilley is the senior pastor of Lake Baldwin Church, and has lived in Orlando since 1994. He and his wife, Molly, worked with a core group from the Baldwin Park community to plant Lake Baldwin Church in 2006. Mike loves teaching the Bible in a way that relates to real life. In his spare time, Mike enjoys good movies, long dinner with friends, snow skiing, hanging out with his kids and two granddaughters, and travel.
Prayer Initiative - Day 3
The overwhelming love of God is a source of life for us, and it overflows through us to others.
1 Thessalonians 3:12
"May the Lord make your love increase and overflow for each other and for everyone else, just as ours does for you."
Today's Prayer Focus
- For our own hearts to grasp the love of God, shown to us in the gospel of Christ.
- For overflowing love in our church; enough to cover a multitude of sins, enough to care for the broken, enough to mark us as true disciples of the one who loved us perfectly.
- For love that would flow out to “everyone else”—new friends, the lost, the city, the poor, our enemies, and our neighbors.
"Love Overflowing"
Mike Tilley
The Nile River flows north from Lake Victoria in Uganda. For centuries, the river has brought life-giving water and fertile deposits to Egypt, spawning civilizations. The Greek historian Herodotus wrote that “Egypt was the gift of the Nile.” Like the mighty Nile, the overwhelming love of God is a source of life for us, and it overflows through us to others.
It’s interesting that Paul prays for overflowing love before he exhorts the Thessalonians to love one another in the very next chapter (1 Thessalonians 4:9). He must know that we need grace from the Lord Jesus, even to love one another. Even Lake Victoria, the source of the Nile, has feeder rivers flowing into it. We, too, need continuous replenishment so that love can increase and overflow.
Just as the waters of the Nile spawn growth in the arid plains of Egypt, a community of Christians filled with the love of Christ will be a life-giving community. A loving community will bear the gospel fruits: growth in holiness, tenderness for the hurting, compassion for the lost, concern for the peace of the city, and ultimately the glory of our Father in heaven.
Mike Tilley is the senior pastor of Lake Baldwin Church, and has lived in Orlando since 1994. He and his wife, Molly, worked with a core group from the Baldwin Park community to plant Lake Baldwin Church in 2006. Mike loves teaching the Bible in a way that relates to real life. In his spare time, Mike enjoys good movies, long dinner with friends, snow skiing, hanging out with his kids and two granddaughters, and travel.
Prayer Initiative - Day 2
When we worship, heaven comes down to earth. The future kingdom comes into this present evil age, and we taste of the powers of the age to come. The more we realize what our Savior has done for us, the more we want to sing the songs of salvation.
Psalm 100:1-2
"Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!"
Today's Prayer Focus
- For worship services throughout the fall: joyful singing, filled with God’s Spirit.
- Joel and Katie Pollard; band and vocalists; A/V team; vocal ensemble.
- Hosting environment for guests.
- Engaging worship for each person, shaping both heart and mind.
- Awe in God’s presence as we worship with each other, and the angels.
"A Joyful Noise"
Mike Tilley
Recently a young high school student attended a week-long Christian event with his parents. He was a sharp guy, raised in a Christian home. But there was one thing missing. When it came time to sing songs in church worship, he did not sing the songs. At the week-long event, he made some Christian friends and his heart began to come alive. By the end of the week, his parents were filled with gratitude as they saw something new in their son: he began to sing in worship.
When we worship, heaven comes down to earth. The future kingdom comes into this present evil age, and we taste of the powers of the age to come. The more we realize what our Savior has done for us, the more we want to sing the songs of salvation. But like that young boy, it’s a heart journey for each of us. In a world that’s crazy busy; a world that is saturated with digital media; a world that offers more creature comforts than any time in history; we need the gospel rest of the Sabbath, and the re-setting of our hearts through rich, gospel-centered worship.
Let’s dream of a maturing worship culture at Lake Baldwin Church. Let’s pray that tongues would be loosed and that hearts would be free. Let’s commune with our Savior from the call to worship to the benediction. Let’s thank God that he has brought Joel and Katie our way, along with talented musicians who volunteer their skills. Then let’s all join the worship team from where we sit, making a joyful noise to the Lord!
Mike Tilley is the senior pastor of Lake Baldwin Church, and has lived in Orlando since 1994. He and his wife, Molly, worked with a core group from the Baldwin Park community to plant Lake Baldwin Church in 2006. Mike loves teaching the Bible in a way that relates to real life. In his spare time, Mike enjoys good movies, long dinner with friends, snow skiing, hanging out with his kids and two granddaughters, and travel.
Prayer Initiative - Day 1
This time spent in prayer does not only advance the kingdom and build his house; it also changes us. Our hearts become shaped and stretched, our minds become flooded with his vision (instead of our own), and our hands are strengthened for the days ahead.
Psalm 127:1
"Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain."
Today's Prayer Focus
- For prayer to be central to the work of LBC, the “furnace” that empowers all we do.
- For God to use this month of prayer to advance his kingdom in us and through us.
- For God to shape our hearts this month to love him and to seek his vision.
"The Prayer Furnace"
Mike Tilley
Five young college students were spending a Sunday in London in the 1800s, so they went to hear famed C. H. Spurgeon preach. While waiting for the doors to open, the students were greeted by a man who asked, “Gentlemen, let me show you around. Would you like to see the heating plant of this church?” They were not particularly interested, for it was a hot day in July. But they didn’t want to offend the stranger, so they consented. The young men were taken down a stairway, a door was quietly opened, and their guide whispered, “This is our heating plant.” Surprised, the students saw 700 people bowed in prayer, seeking a blessing on the service that was soon to begin in the auditorium above. Softly closing the door, the gentleman then introduced himself. It was none other than Charles Spurgeon. (Source: Our Daily Bread)
Welcome to the modern-day “prayer furnace” of Lake Baldwin Church! As we pray each day, we are expressing our dependence on God to “build the house.” We are saying, “We need your grace. We need your power. All of our work will be in vain apart from the gracious presence of the Holy Spirit.”
But why devote time to prayer? Couldn’t we just ask one person to read a list of requests to God and then get on with our lives? Scripture teaches united, sustained, prevailing prayer. This time spent in prayer does not only advance the kingdom and build his house; it also changes us. Our hearts become shaped and stretched, our minds become flooded with his vision (instead of our own), and our hands are strengthened for the days ahead.
The “house” of Psalm 127:1 reminds us not only of a home or a family. In the Old Testament, it also was the term used for God’s temple, the place of worship. With the dawn of the gospel in the New Testament, God now has a people for his temple. Christ Jesus is the cornerstone, and we are the stones of that temple, of that house. Let us pray that he will build it.
Mike Tilley is the senior pastor of Lake Baldwin Church, and has lived in Orlando since 1994. He and his wife, Molly, worked with a core group from the Baldwin Park community to plant Lake Baldwin Church in 2006. Mike loves teaching the Bible in a way that relates to real life. In his spare time, Mike enjoys good movies, long dinner with friends, snow skiing, hanging out with his kids and two granddaughters, and travel.
August Daily Prayer #29: Nativity
Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which shall be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:10-11)
The angels always seemed to have a special enthusiasm for the birth of the Savior. What did they know, that mankind would soon hear? They called it good news. It was a great joy. It was for all the people. And was all about a Savior, Christ the Lord.
Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy which shall be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. (Luke 2:10-11)
The angels always seemed to have a special enthusiasm for the birth of the Savior. What did they know, that mankind would soon hear? They called it good news. It was a great joy. It was for all the people. And was all about a Savior, Christ the Lord.
There's a cathedral in Barcelona called the Segrada Familia (Holy Family). It's been under construction for over 100 years, having been designed by the late Gaudi. Each side of the building features part of the story of Jesus. There's a whole wing devoted to the Nativity, and it stands today as a symbol of this story that has changed history.
Our fall season will culminate in Advent, a time when we will join with the angels to announce the birth of the Savior. Today, let's pray for the Advent season.
- 80% of Orlando is unchurched. Pray that God will use the Advent season, and the churches of Orlando, to announce the beauty of the Savior.
- Pray for our church preparations for this season. Pray for message preparation, for musical preparation, for our SPLASH kids, and for all who will participate.
- Pray for our Christmas Eve service, and other Advent services. These times have been wonderful for inviting people who rarely attend church. Pray for our whole congregation, and for our outreach in the community.
- Most of all, pray that our worship and celebration would reflect the jubilation of the angels and shepherds who were there for the birth of the Savior.
August Daily Prayer #28: Spiritual Growth
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. (2 Peter 3:18)
The book of 2 Peter begins and ends with an inspiring call to spiritual growth in Christ. Though we already know Jesus Christ, spiritual growth involves getting to know him better. This includes growth in our understanding of Christ, as well as our experience of his grace. What a simple and beautiful road map for the growth of every follower of Christ! It's good for all of us to ask the question, "What is the next step for my growth in Christ?"
But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and forever! Amen. (2 Peter 3:18)
The book of 2 Peter begins and ends with an inspiring call to spiritual growth in Christ. Though we already know Jesus Christ, spiritual growth involves getting to know him better. This includes growth in our understanding of Christ, as well as our experience of his grace. What a simple and beautiful road map for the growth of every follower of Christ! It's good for all of us to ask the question, "What is the next step for my growth in Christ?"
This fall, Lake Baldwin Church will offer numerous opportunities for growth "in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" Let's bathe these opportunities in prayer, and let's pray that the people of LBC will press on to spiritual maturity.
- Pray for the new 12-week class beginning Oct 5, taught by Richard Hostetter and others. It will be an overview of the Bible, where "heart knowledge" and "head knowledge" will be experienced.
- Pray for renewed and new small groups being launched next month. Pray that these groups will be environments for growth in grace and knowledge of Christ.
- Pray for our elders who shepherd the flock, as they nudge us all in the direction of growth in Christ.
- Pray for the power of the Holy Spirit in the use of the "ordinary means of grace:" worship, the preaching of the Word, communion, and community. Pray that the Spirit will work mightily to bring about growth in grace and knowledge for all of us this fall.
- Pray for our children and youth, who will also experience opportunity for growth in grace and knowledge in SPLASH and youth group.
- Healthy growth involves head, heart, and hands. Pray that our church will increase in head knowledge, in heart passion for Christ and others, and in action as we obey and serve Jesus.
- Most of all, pray that love for God and others would increasingly be our experience as the gospel of Jesus Christ continues to transform us, individually and as a church.
August Daily Prayer #27: Digital Media
I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings. (1 Corinthians 9:22-23)
Overheard:
Molly: "I LOVE our new church web site! It's better than our church!"
Mike: "Now Honey, I wouldn't go THAT far."
The famous passage from 1 Corinthians (above) gives us a window into the heart of the apostle Paul. Love will use every legitimate means to bring the gospel to people for their salvation. When Paul says, "I have become all things to all people" he's not referring to compromise. Rather, it's a great reminder of how Jesus became man, in the incarnation, for the sake of our salvation. Christians creatively use neutral tools to bring the gospel into the space being occupied by real people.
I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some. I do it all for the sake of the gospel, that I may share with them in its blessings. (1 Corinthians 9:22-23)
Overheard:
Molly: "I LOVE our new church web site! It's better than our church!"
Mike: "Now Honey, I wouldn't go THAT far."
The famous passage from 1 Corinthians (above) gives us a window into the heart of the apostle Paul. Love will use every legitimate means to bring the gospel to people for their salvation. When Paul says, "I have become all things to all people" he's not referring to compromise. Rather, it's a great reminder of how Jesus became man, in the incarnation, for the sake of our salvation. Christians creatively use neutral tools to bring the gospel into the space being occupied by real people.
In the first century, the vast network of Roman roads facilitated the spread of the gospel. So did the language of "common Greek" which was used in the New Testament. In 1454 the Bible was printed on the Gutenberg press, just in time for the Reformation. Tom Skinner, the famous African American evangelist, came to faith by listening to a radio sermon. The film Jesus has reached people around the world, many of whom had never seen a movie. Third Millenium, an Orlando-based ministry begun by Richard Pratt, uses the worldwide web to offer free on-line seminary courses for pastors in the developing world.
In God's providence, we have new opportunities to reach out through digital media. While this tool will never replace relationships as the primary means of outreach, it can be used as a bridge to real people. God has brought Dan Whaite and others along to help us engage the digital horizon for the gospel. Today, let's pray for these efforts.
- Thank God for our new web site, launched Aug 23. It's a great internal communication tool, as well as the face of LBC to those searching for a church through the web. Pray that it will become a powerful tool to enhance communication within our LBC family, and to attract people who are searching for a church. You can check out the new site and all it offers at: www.lakebaldwinchurch.com. As you "walk" through the site, remember to pray for the people and ministries of LBC on the site.
- Pray for Dan Whaite and Matt Brubaker, who have started Digital Acts, in an effort to help churches attract new visitors through digital media. Pray for them as they assist Lake Baldwin Church (and other churches) to more effectively tell our story and the story of the gospel. You can check out their vision at www.digitalacts.org.
- Pray for emerging initiatives to reach out as digital media replaces direct mail as a way of creating awareness and interest.
- Pray for John Boggs, who will be producing a welcome video for our web site.
- Thank God for Don Dearing, who was in London this summer guiding a mission project using media. Over 5000 packets with Bibles and the Jesus film were given out. Pray for Don, as well as Doug and Denise Anderson, working with creative media around the world.
- Pray for Matt Watts, who is assisting people around the world through the use of digital media.
- Pray for Bart and Judy Johnson as they work to offer faith-based classical Christian education across China through Veritas Press.
- In all things, pray that the love of Christ would compel us as we build common ground relationships, and as we communicate through common ground media. Pray that the Word of God will spread, even as it did through the Roman road, the Gutenberg press, and other means throughout history.
August Daily Prayer #26: World at our Doorstep
Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. (Acts 2:5)
On the day of Pentecost, there were people from every nation in one city. In a reversal of the Tower of Babel, these people heard the gospel in their own tongue. The Holy Spirit was poured out, and Peter preached the gospel. Those who believed were baptized, and 3000 souls were added that day. This historic day was no accident. God had said in the Old Testament, "I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh."
Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. (Acts 2:5)
On the day of Pentecost, there were people from every nation in one city. In a reversal of the Tower of Babel, these people heard the gospel in their own tongue. The Holy Spirit was poured out, and Peter preached the gospel. Those who believed were baptized, and 3000 souls were added that day. This historic day was no accident. God had said in the Old Testament, "I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh."
God has a heart for the nations, wherever they are. Thanks to the new global culture of travel and technology, the nations of the world are gathered in the cities of the world. That is true of Orlando. Today, let's pray for the world at our doorstep.
- Thank God for the nations already represented at Lake Baldwin Church: Venezuela, Cuba, Sweden, Russia,India, Ukraine, and others.
- Pray for Karolina Faryga, member of a family from Ukraine that recently joined LBC. A growth has been discovered on her thyroid, and doctors fear it could be cancer. Pray that the tests will return negative. Pray for comfort for the family in the meantime.
- Thank God for our Global Missions Team, which has the vision for sending to the nations, but also for reaching the nations in Orlando.
- Think of the people from other nations in your neighborhood. For example, in our neighborhood we've met a family from Pakistan. Pray for God to be at work, and pray that our church will become a place of hospitality for those from other nations
- One organization each year looks for churches to provide host families for young people visiting from Japan. Pray that God will use this ministry, and even our church, to make a difference in this way.
- Pray for international students at nearby campuses, such as Full Sail, UCF, Rollins, and Valencia. Pray that God will raise up a ministry to these students, and that many will discover Christ will studying in the USA.
- Pray for the global heartbeat of Lake Baldwin Church. Ask God to continue to give us his heart for the nations.
- May the gospel so stir our hearts that we would sing with the hymn: "Let every kindred every tribe on this terrestrial ball, to him all majesty ascribe and crown him Lord of all."
August Daily Prayer #25: LBC Staff
...praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel... (Ephesians 6:18-19)
A number of the verses in the New Testament about prayer include a call to "alertness." Sometimes our spiritual senses can grow dull, and there is a kind of spiritual alertness needed in prayer. One reason for that is the spiritual conflict that rages in the unseen realm, what Donald Gray Barnhouse called "the invisible war." That's the context of these verses in Ephesians 6. The only way to wage such a conflict is on our knees, with spiritual alertness.
...praying at all times in the Spirit, with all prayer and supplication. To that end, keep alert with all perseverance, making supplication for all the saints, and also for me, that words may be given to me in opening my mouth boldly to proclaim the mystery of the gospel... (Ephesians 6:18-19)
A number of the verses in the New Testament about prayer include a call to "alertness." Sometimes our spiritual senses can grow dull, and there is a kind of spiritual alertness needed in prayer. One reason for that is the spiritual conflict that rages in the unseen realm, what Donald Gray Barnhouse called "the invisible war." That's the context of these verses in Ephesians 6. The only way to wage such a conflict is on our knees, with spiritual alertness.
It's interesting that Paul also requests prayer for himself. If the apostle Paul was in need of prayer, how much is that true of the rest of us! This month we've prayed for our deacons and elders by name. Today, would you take a few moments to pray for our LBC staff team?
- Fritz Schalmo: Pray for Fritz as he leads our youth ministry. He works with a wide range of ages, interest, and schedules. Along with that, he offers free counseling to folks in our church, and God is using him to see lives changed. Remember to pray for Fritz and Barbie together, as they anticipate the birth of their first child, very soon.
- Michelle Crouse: God has gifted Michelle to bring the right kind of leadership to our children's ministry. Pray for her as she works with an extensive volunteer rotation, and as she relates to children and families. Pray, too, for her family: Joshua, Daniel, and Tiffany. Pray specifically that God would raise up a high level team around Michelle to coordinate Sunday mornings on a rotating basis.
- Tim Inman: In God's providence he has brought Tim and Angela to plan and lead our worship team and worship services on an interim basis. Pray for them, as Angela works a full-time job, and as Tim resumes his seminary studies. Pray for them, too, as they help lead our congregation to the throne of grace each week,
- Terri Poulos: Our new church administrator has stepped into this role with a great mix of admin skill and people skills. She and her husband, Jamie, just adopted a newborn child, and she is in New Orleans with the new baby. Pray for their family. Also, pray for Lisa Rigsby as she fills in for Terri during maternity leave.
- Mike and Molly Tilley: We always appreciate your prayers as we have the joy of relating to the LBC congregation. Pray for boldness in my preaching of Exodus. Pray for our spiritual and emotional strength in navigating a range of responsibilities.in
- For the whole team, pray that we would experience and embody the grace of the gospel of Christ, serving him in dependence on the Holy Spirit. Pray that we would experience the fullness of faith, hope, and love as we follow Jesus
August Daily Prayer #24: Stand and See
Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord. (Exodus 14:13)
This scene from the Book of Exodus finds the people of Israel between a rock and a hard place. Behind them: the fearsome army of Pharaoh. In front of them: the impassable sea. These stirring words of Moses call them to stand and see the salvation of the Lord.
Fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord. (Exodus 14:13)
This scene from the Book of Exodus finds the people of Israel between a rock and a hard place. Behind them: the fearsome army of Pharaoh. In front of them: the impassable sea. These stirring words of Moses call them to stand and see the salvation of the Lord.
Today, on Sunday, we rest in an even greater victory. Jesus, the greater Moses, won the salvation for us that we could never win for ourselves. Now we, too, are free from fear, for perfect love casts out fear. We, too, stand and see the salvation of the Lord. We rest in Christ's finished work, and we gather for worship to celebrate his mighty victory.
In the days ahead, we continue to express our dependence on God as we pray. Today, the day of the Lord, we rest and worship!
August Daily Prayer #23: Community Groups
Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. (Ephesians 4:15-16)
Have you noticed how the parts of your physical body are interdependent? So it is, with the body of Christ, the church. When we're connected in healthy ways to others in the church, we grow up into Christ. Notice that the body "builds itself up in love." Each person has something to give, and is vital to the community. And, each person has something they need from relationships in the community. In a growing church, the relationships are dynamic, not static. Time and space are given for new people to be added, adding new richness to our community.
Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love. (Ephesians 4:15-16)
Have you noticed how the parts of your physical body are interdependent? So it is, with the body of Christ, the church. When we're connected in healthy ways to others in the church, we grow up into Christ. Notice that the body "builds itself up in love." Each person has something to give, and is vital to the community. And, each person has something they need from relationships in the community. In a growing church, the relationships are dynamic, not static. Time and space are given for new people to be added, adding new richness to our community.
At Lake Baldwin Church, this process of relationship-building and growth are lived out in worship, in hospitality, in serving together, and in community groups (small groups). We've learned that our groups are one of the best places to help people grow as followers of Christ, as his disciples. Today, let's take some moments to pray for our growing network of community groups at LBC.
- Thank God for the people he has raised up to lead small groups. Pray for our group leaders as they meet on September 13 to prepare for the upcoming ministry season. Pray that God will raise up new leaders for new community groups.
- Pray for the many new people at LBC, and for those we have yet to meet. Pray that they will be able to connect to groups naturally and easily, as they are ready. Thank God for the welcoming environment that has been created in our groups.
- Pray for gospel community in all of our small groups. Pray that relationships will flourish, and that people will experience a safe place to bring their "real selves" into community.
- Pray for gospel growth in all of our small groups. Ask God to give a richness to the study of the Bible, and the use of gospel-centered content.
- Pray for gospel mission in our small groups, as people provide a place of care and use of spiritual gifts. Pray that people will be equipped to serve and minister as God leads them.
- Pray for the whole body of Christ at Lake Baldwin Church, that we will "grow up in every way into into him who is the head, who is Christ."