Mike Tilley 8/1/16 Mike Tilley 8/1/16

2016 August Prayer Initiative - Day 1

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. (MATTHEW 6:9-10)

“The First Three Petitions”

As our church family begins this prayer adventure together, it's good to reflect on the "pattern" prayer that Jesus gives us in Matthew 6. Jesus' guide for prayer has been the basis of Joe White's sermon series throughout July. The prayer begins with community: “our Father.” And it begins with gospel: “our Father.”

The first three petitions are, (1) hallowed be your name, (2) your kingdom come, and (3) your will be done. Jesus wants our hearts to be captivated by these wonderful things: his name, his kingdom, and his will. As this happens, our prayers will be fueled by devotion to Him.

This is no less than a "Copernican revolution" for our hearts. Prior to the scientist Copernicus, people believed that the sun revolved around the earth. But Copernicus proved that the earth revolves around the sun. Prior to Jesus, we thought that our lives were about our glory. After Jesus, we learned that our lives are about his glory.

The "default" setting of our hearts is to focus on ourselves—to live for my name, my kingdom, my glory. So as Joe challenged us on July 24: "Has the 'my' become 'thy'?"

How to pray...

Pray that the name of God would be "hallowed" and glorified through the prayers of our church family this month. Boldly pray that your heart will yearn for his glory.
Pray that the kingdom will come through our prayers this month. Boldly pray that we would all love the King more ardently as a result of this prayer adventure. Pray that the light of the gospel would push back the darkness in the world, especially this week as we pray for "good news for the lost."
Pray that the will of God would shape our church, our families, and our places of work as we pray this month. Boldly pray that all of us would experience a new beginning of gospel obedience as a result of our time of united prayer.

For the Family

This month, we will be joining together as a church body to pray. It is our hope and prayer that this can be something that the whole family will participate in together. This section will provide ideas, activities, and explanations to assist parents in bringing their children alongside them during this special month of prayer, and to ultimately develop long term rhythms of prayer for the family.

In the book Habits of Grace, David Mathis says, “Prayer, simply put, is talking to God.” Mathis goes on to say that there is a difference between talking with God and others: “We don’t chat as peers. He is Creator, and we are creatures.”

As we begin, brainstorm as a family about the things we talk about with others (friends, family, teachers, co-workers). Ideas might be:

sharing what is going on in your life
talking about a problem that you are going through
apologizing to someone for a mistake you made
encouraging someone and telling them what you like about them
sharing about something you are thankful for

When we talk with God, our prayers are similar to talking with a friend, yet unique because we are conversing with the Lord of all creation!

As you pray, think about talking with God like you would talk to a friend. Praise him for who he is, pray for his will in your life during good and hard times, ask for forgiveness, and ask him for his help.

God gives us The Lord's Prayer as an example of how to pray: read it together in Matthew 6: 9-13.

Contributors

"The First Three Petitions" - Mike Tilley

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.

"For the Family" - Michelle Crouse

Michelle Crouse has served as the director of LBC's children's ministry—SPLASH Kids—since the end of 2011. She and her husband Joshua were married in 2002 and have 2 children. Michelle grew up outside of Boston and graduated from James Madison University in Virginia with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She loves being with kids and loves the opportunity to be a part of teaching children how much they are loved by God, and helping them grow in their understanding of what that means.

Mike Tilley 7/15/16 Mike Tilley 7/15/16

Darkness in Nice, France

This weekend we lament yet another tragedy at the hands of darkness and evil. We stand with the French people and the churches in France. Pray for worship services on Sunday where the hope of the gospel will be preached. Pray for all of those who lost loved ones on the dark night of July 14 in Nice, France.

The beautiful city of Nice, France, suffered tragedy last night, when 84 people were struck and killed by a lorry. Citizens of Nice had just finished Bastille Day celebrations with fireworks on the beach. France and the world today are horrified by another terrorist attack.

When I heard the news, I thought of our ministry partners at two international churches in the Nice area. James Arnold serves as pastor of both churches, one in St. Paul just 25 minutes up the road from Nice, and the other in Nice itself. James preached at Lake Baldwin Church in June 2015 as part of our effort to highlight our connection with church partners in Europe. He reports that he and his team are safe. They had just completed a week of Kids Club, so were too tired to go to the Bastille Day fireworks.

This weekend we lament yet another tragedy at the hands of darkness and evil. We stand with the French people and the churches in France. Remember to pray for James and his family and team, as well as the two congregations in the Nice area. They are no doubt grappling this weekend for how best to respond. Pray for worship services on Sunday where the hope of the gospel will be preached. Pray for all of those who lost loved ones on the dark night of July 14 in Nice, France.

At LBC we have been forging bonds of partnership with international churches in Europe that are affiliated with International Christian Community. The vision is for each church to be a radiating center of light, bringing the gospel to internationals, immigrants, and in-country nationals. Please be praying for the churches of ICC, both this weekend and next month as they will be included in the August Prayer Initiative. Pray that the hope of Christ and his grace will radiate from the churches in Europe.

"He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." (Colossians 1:13-14)

You can read an update from James Arnold on the ICC Blog.

Alison Epps 7/8/16 Alison Epps 7/8/16

Lament and Confession in the Wake of Violence

In the beatitudes, Jesus teaches his followers how the gospel will transform the way they live and interact with others. In light of recent events in our country, these truths ring fresh in our hearts as we own our sinfulness, repent, and seek to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.

"Lament and Confession in the Wake of Violence"

Jesus said, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.’
   Instead, we have been proud and overbearing.
   We have asserted our own importance and been jealous of others.
   We have cast off the weak, the poor, and the marginalized
      and slandered those we envy and dislike.
Lord, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy.

Jesus said, “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”
   Instead, we have been angry in our hearts and in our words.
   We have returned evil for evil.
   We have done violence ourselves and condoned the violence of others.
Lord, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy.

Jesus said, “Blessed are those who weep, for they shall be consoled.”
   Instead, we have failed to show compassion and care for others who suffer
      and in doing so have hardened our hearts.
   We have not borne our own sorrow and suffering with the patience which comes from faith.
Lord, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy.

Jesus said, “Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.”
Instead, we have looked on our neighbor’s faults and weaknesses with a hard and intolerant eye.
We have failed to show understanding and sympathy, but judged harshly and too soon.
Lord, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy.

Jesus said, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.”
Instead, we have been suspicious, distrustful and insincere in the thoughts of our hearts.
We have spoiled the joy and beauty of our sense and our love through lust and self-indulgence.
Lord, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy.

Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.”
   Instead, we have broken the loving peace of friends and families with divisiveness.
   We have been intolerant of those unlike ourselves and disturbed the peace of our land
      with violence and civil strife.
   We have harbored prejudice in our hearts, whether knowingly or unknowingly,
      and have perpetuated the fear and anger in our country.
Lord, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy.

Jesus said, “Blessed are those who suffer persecution for the sake of justice, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
   Instead, we have neglected in our prayers and in our charity those who are persecuted
      for their faith, their beliefs, or their race.
   We have encouraged or left unrebuked those who, in word or deed,
      deny the equality of the children of God.
Lord, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy.

Based on "A Prayer of Penitence based on the Beatitudes of Jesus" from the Church of England.
Adapted on July 8th, 2016 by Joel Pollard, Director of Worship at Lake Baldwin Church

Mike Tilley 6/2/16 Mike Tilley 6/2/16

3 Things You Might Not Know About 2 Thessalonians

Based on reading 2 Thessalonians, we can identify 3 issues in the church at Thessalonica which may sound familiar to modern readers.

Thessalonica, a city in Macedonia (modern Thessaloniki)Image from The HarperCollins Bible Dictionary. — Thessalonica, a city in Macedonia (modern Thessaloniki)
*Image from The HarperCollins Bible Dictionary.*

During the month of June Lake Baldwin Church will feature a one-month sermon series on 2 Thessalonians. The title for the series is Resilience: The Vanishing Virtue. But how much do we know about this brief New Testament letter?

The apostle Paul and his team likely penned this "epistle" (letter) around 50 A.D. Like most of Paul's letters, there were issues in the church that prompted his writing. This is often referred to as the "occasion" of the letter.

How do we know the "occasion" of an epistle, or the reason for writing? Reading such a letter, for us, is like listening to one side of a phone conversation. We don't know for sure what the other person is saying, but we can learn a lot from what we're hearing. It's the same way when we read Paul's letters.

Based on reading 2 Thessalonians, we can identify 3 issues in the church at Thessalonica which may sound familiar to modern readers.

1. The Christians were facing trials and persecution.

Ancient stone arches in Thessalonica.Image from Logos Bible Software. — *Ancient stone arches in Thessalonica.*
*Image from Logos Bible Software.*

This becomes clear in the first chapter. Paul realizes that these trials could make them want to give up or "dial back" their faithfulness to Christ. So he reassures them in the midst of trials, giving them the encouragement to endure, or to become resilient.

What trials are we facing that might require resilience? We might not be facing persecution, but where are we tempted to give up?

2. There was confusion about the return of Jesus Christ.

On this point, Paul was concerned that they might be deceived about the day of the Lord. Paul was "guarding the flock" from false teaching. This is a big issue today, because truth gets softened and crumbled by false teaching and the waves of cultural change lapping up against the church. There is a need for all of us to be "resilient" when it comes to the truth of Scripture.

3. Some had grown weary in doing good.

This can easily happen, especially if the going is tough, or if there is confusion about the truth. Apparently, there were people at Thessalonica who had grown idle in their faith.

Have you ever known somebody who had an early excitement about their faith, only to get sidetracked along the way by competing affections?

Perhaps we have all felt what it is like to grow weary in the Christian life. The Christian life is a marathon, not a sprint. Paul wanted to help the weary be resilient, and we all need that encouragement from time to time.

Where might you need to experience new strength from God? In what area of life do you need resilience?

Let's make our study of 2 Thessalonians a refreshment station in the marathon of the Christian life.

Join us for our June sermon series on 2 Thessalonians, "Resilience: The Vanishing Virtue." Lake Baldwin Church meets every Sunday, 10:45 AM, at Glenridge Middle School. For more information email hello@lakebaldwinchurch.com.

Mike Tilley 3/17/16 Mike Tilley 3/17/16

Postcard from Wiesbaden

"What do you like about this church?"

I asked the question of Marco, a new believer from northern Italy. He was the first person who greeted me at Christ Church Wiesbaden, near Frankfurt, Germany.

"What do you like about this church?"

I asked the question of Marco, a new believer from northern Italy. He was the first person who greeted me at Christ Church Wiesbaden, near Frankfurt, Germany.

"First, I can understand the language," Marco replied. As an Italian working in Germany, and married to an Indonesian, the language he speaks when away from Italy is English. That's the power of the international church.

Phil and Nora Gelston with their children, Paul, Tommy, Johannes and Anna. — Phil and Nora Gelston with their children, Paul, Tommy, Johannes and Anna.

Christ Church Wiesbaden was planted by Phil and Nora Gelston in 2011. Phil is a young, energetic pastor from Central Florida with a love for the gospel fueled by deep theological roots in reformation theology. Nora was born and raised near Bonn, Germany, and came to faith while living in Spokane, Washington. Her heart longs for her beloved Germany to hear the good news. Their family has grown to six during the five years since they began the church.

"Why Wiesbaden?" I asked Phil, as we sipped coffee after church in his home in the Taunus hills outside of the city.

"It's the headquarters for the U.S. Military in Europe." So the church began with a vision to minister to military personnel. Sure enough, I met several people serving with our armed forces: Megan, from Virginia, who serves with Army Operations and "found a church home;" Jason, a Major who speaks fluent Russian and is an aide to a General; and Sam, a Microsoft engineer who works as a civilian and assists the army with technology.

But the church has expanded to include people from six countries, so the vision is now international. For example, Annika is from Berlin and is married to a Frenchman. Hee-Jae is from Korea.

One ex-pat family from Atlanta found the church they were seeking at CCW. "Attendance has doubled in the last six months," the wife said as we met during the greeting time.

In fact, Christ Church Wiesbaden has outgrown their current facility, so they will soon be moving to a larger worship space. And though Phil and Nora have raised financial support, the work is now 70% self-funding.

Phil is not ashamed to say that the strenuous entrepreneurial work of church planting has stretched him. But he likes how his leadership mettle has been tested and developed. God is refining his faith, and no day goes by without needing to depend on God's grace.

As I write this post, I'm on a train to Zurich, Switzerland, where leading pastors will be praying for pastors like Phil, and for the spread of flourishing, gospel-centered international churches in all of the 100 principal cities of Europe. This is the vision of International Christian Community, a growing network that is a partner of Lake Baldwin Church.

We all can rejoice in the progress of the gospel through churches like Christ Church Wiesbaden.

"I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth." (1 Corinthians 3:6)

Alison Epps 2/25/16 Alison Epps 2/25/16

Giving Legs to the Vision: Part 2

What are our next steps in the coming year?

By "next steps" we mean the initiatives, events, and priorities that will give tangible expression to our vision in the real world.

What are our next steps in the coming year?

By "next steps" we mean the initiatives, events, and priorities that will give tangible expression to our vision in the real world. While resources (see Part 1) can be described as “critical mass,” these next steps can be described as our “critical path.”

While we identify fresh initiatives and strategies each year, we also retain “core strategies” that remain on the front burner. These are worship, SPLASH Kids, youth, and small groups. Our staff and volunteer leaders provide passionate focus to these vital areas in the life of our church. Our hope is that our congregation will find joy and fruitfulness as they use their gifts and talents in these areas.

Here are some fresh initiatives for the coming year:

engage every small group with the vision:

With an adult population of roughly 200, we have around 120 people involved in small groups. Thanks to the care and work of our small group leaders, these groups have already become a place to experience community, spiritual growth, care, and service.

A listening tour of small groups last November revealed a high degree of passion for the vision of the church, but limited engagement in the vision. We need a way to make the vision more hands-on for people who feel limited by access, time, or just the busyness of life. We need engagement through better communication and a simplifying of time commitments.

Based on ways we have already seen God work in our groups, our hope is to help people identify their spiritual gifts and passions. Some have gifts of hospitality, mercy, teaching, leadership, administration, global missions, or evangelism. For example, one small group became engaged in the vision of global missions when two group members went to Nicaragua for a medical mission. Several groups got involved by praying and giving supplies, as well as just cheering for those who went. This trip became known and supported church-wide, giving life to our vision for global missions.

Other groups have experienced growth through outreach, especially by initiating with new people at church. Still others have found great teaching content, contributing to the heart transformation and discipleship of their members.

Just as a trellis and vine work together to achieve organic growth, we envision similar "grass roots" engagement as more and more individuals are equipped and given opportunity to use their gifts.

Improve assimilation Process:

Our church-wide assessment last November revealed "leaks" in our assimilation funnel. While a good number of visitors are making LBC their church home, others are not being effectively enfolded into our community. Since there are other good churches in Orlando, it’s to be expected that not all visitors will put down roots at LBC. At the same time, we want to help all who visit our church to feel included and connected relationally. While good worship services and a quality environment for children are keys to effective assimilation, it will take a broader plan to grow the church in our mobile culture.

This year we’ll clarify and strengthen our approach to assimilation while continuing the effective efforts that are already in place. One thing in our favor has always been the “hosting environment” on Sunday mornings, so keep reaching out to those guests!

TEACH AND DEVELOP INDIVIDUALS:

A “cohort” is a group of people learning together, for a defined period of time, with a mutually agreed commitment to participate. For years, Lake Baldwin Church has had a commitment to educating the Christian heart and mind, coupled with service in the real world, but today’s mobile culture makes consistent spiritual education a challenge. Cohorts present a versatile alternative to “Sunday school” which works for some, but not for others.

Learning cohorts will expand our venues for quality teaching. The participants can customize the meeting schedule, perhaps opting for breakfasts, coffee after work, or even Sunday before church. Cohorts also meet for a set period of time, established at the outset—as short as 5 weeks or as long as a year. This flexibility allows participants to remain in their weekly small group and makes the commitment more feasible for people with busy schedules.

For example, one current cohort is meeting twice a month for eight months to gain an overview of systematic theology. Other examples of cohorts include: Membership Class (Friday night & Saturday morning); Discipleship Intensive Group, or DIG (Wednesday nights for eight months); Financial Peace University (a nine-week, focused class); and the Future Project (twice monthly for a year). Most learning cohorts include interactive learning and home study.

A renewed focus on cohorts will allow LBC to customize learning, mentoring, and discipleship for individuals in every stage of the spiritual journey.

Equip people for personal outreach:

We’ve learned that many people at LBC have relationships with non-churched people. That said, some have expressed a need to be equipped to engage people more deeply as God opens doors to spiritual conversations. One member of our church has identified a need to equip people in three areas:

How to build relationships with people who are non-churched.
How to respond when a conversation turns to spiritual things.
How to invite people to church.

While not all of us have the spiritual gift of evangelism, we’ve learned that we all are part of a team that can help spiritual seekers come to faith.

Expand outreach in Baldwin Park:

Although our vision extends beyond Baldwin Park, we do see our nearby community as an important part of our mission. At present, 30% of our congregation lives in Baldwin Park, while 70% come from around the city. We’ve learned a lot over the years about natural ways of relating to the 10,000 people moving in to this part of the city. We’ve seen fruit through relationships, parties, community events, and media communication. In March, Baldwin Park Living, our community magazine will feature an article about Lake Baldwin Church on the occasion of our 10th anniversary!

Our most fruitful community events have been Kids Camp, the Baldwin Park Easter Egg Hunt, and the Winter Spark Christmas Parade. We are so grateful for the many people who have served at these events, meeting the public and relating in warm, tactful ways. Untapped opportunities on the horizon are the new apartments under construction in Baldwin Park, better connections with new move-ins, and taking the long-term view with trusting, common-ground relationships. It might surprise us to realize that people are more receptive than we think if we “conduct ourselves with wisdom toward outsiders.” (Colossians 4:5)

STRENGTHEN Women’s Connection and Development:

Last April, LBC's first women’s retreat exceeded our expectations in both attendance and lasting fruit. We anticipate a future retreat (probably in the Fall—stay tuned!) to capitalize on this success. We also value the three women’s bible studies that are offered, as well as informal mentoring throughout the church. We want to continue to create an environment where women can grow, flourish, and use their gifts. We value the inclusion of women in ministry planning, leadership of events, and in the leadership development process of the church.

ENGAGE BROADLY in serving the city:

We already have many people at the grass roots of our church making a difference in the city. These people and organizations are listed on the new landing page on our web site, serving the city. Going forward, our hope is that this heart for the city will become embedded in the culture of our church.

The most natural way for this to happen would be through small groups. Led by individuals with mercy gifts, our groups can be informed of needs and decide together how they would like to engage. For example, one small group had several people serve at Orlando Children’s Church because of the vision of one person in the group. Other groups have simply worked together to offer care for an individual, or to devote a work day to home landscaping.

As these stories are told church-wide, others will be inspired to “offer a cup of cold water” to those in need. The deacons will continue to create opportunities and to update the landing page on the web site, so that groups can easily plug in and meet real needs.

BUILD GLOBAL MISSIONS Momentum:

Our first Global Missions Festival drew 75 people and provided a weekend of vision and exposure to what God is doing through LBC members and our international partners. This part of our vision will further come to life when we identify someone in each small group with a passion for global missions. While not all will have the chance to go on a mission trip, everyone can pray and cheer for those who do, personalizing our connection to God’s heart for the nations.

ENGAGE College STUDENTS and twentY-SOMETHINGS:

We have already experienced the heart and influence of both singles and marrieds in this age group. Several individuals and small groups have expressed a desire to give some focus to this opportunity in our church, and this vision will be given an additional boost when Joe White comes on board. This is a divine opportunity for our future, given the new apartments in our area and nearby college campuses.

speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of … Christ. From him the whole body … grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

—Ephesians 4:15-16, NIV, emphasis added

We believe that God will continue working in and through Lake Baldwin Church as we each grow personally, and as we work together to build each other up in love. Our hope is that everyone in the church will capture our shared vision for the coming year and take part in the kingdom work we have been called to do as the body of Christ.

Small groups are important hubs for communication, education, service, and community, so if you aren't plugged into a group, we encourage you to visit the small group page and learn more!

Need help getting connected? Email hello@lakebaldwinchurch.com

Alison Epps 2/19/16 Alison Epps 2/19/16

Giving Legs to the Vision: Part 1

What is our vision? What are our values? What will it take to pursue the vision?

A good ministry plan charts the course for the church, creating a compelling and feasible vision for the future. It is rooted in current reality, but not stuck in it. It is the fruit of a prayerful and collaborative process. (To learn more about this process, read this.) A good ministry plan remains flexible, in order to take advantage of fortuitous, Spirit-given opportunities or unforeseen setbacks. The plan gives legs to the vision and life to shared core values.

What is our vision?

Transformed by the grace of Christ, and compelled by his love, our vision is to be a flourishing community marked by love for God and for our neighbor. Depending on prayer and the work of the Holy Spirit, we desire to radiate the good news of God’s grace in such a way that people are redeemed by the gospel, grow in the context of healthy relationships, serve the poor and needy around us, and partner with the global church to bring the gospel to the nations.

What are our values?

Values define the culture of a church, and provide guard rails as we chart the course for the future. While vision serves to describe a desirable future, values express who we want to be as we move toward the future. Over ten years, we have seen these five core values come to life in our community:

Rich, God-centered worship; dependence on God in prayer; persistence and resourcefulness in the face of obstacles.

A place to know and be known, where I can bring my real self into relationship with others.

Though we are more sinful than we ever imagined, we are more loved than we ever dared dream. The Christian life is lived out of freedom and love for God, not compulsion. The riches of grace are in the “drinking water” of all we do.

Helping each person take their next step toward spiritual maturity; making disciples; developing leaders.

We don’t exist only for ourselves, but for a needy world. We engage culture, we pursue the lost sheep, we are for the city, we create space for people to belong before they believe, and we have a hosting environment for guests.

What will it take to pursue the vision?

Just as a commercial airliner needs fuel to get to its destination, a church needs resources to move into the future. Sometimes we refer to these resources as “capacity” or “critical mass.” What resources do we need to fuel the pursuit of our vision?

Prayer:

Our most vital resource is the power of God. Apart from the work of the Holy Spirit, our efforts are in vain. Our dreams are beyond human power to achieve: hearts that are brought to saving faith; believers inspired to love Jesus and serve him; worship services and events where we experience the quiet presence of God. So we mobilize prayer through our weekly prayer alert, our church-wide monthly prayer gathering, in small groups, and in the August Prayer Initiative.

Healthy volunteer culture:

All churches, whether they have a building or not, depend on a base of inspired, dependable volunteers. Since 80% of our church serves monthly, we believe that we have a sustainable volunteer system. That said, our deacons will review our volunteer culture and search for ways to care for our volunteers, make our system even more effective, and engage others to serve as reinforcements.

Broad-based giving:

Our progress the last two years has been substantial, and we have finished both years in the black. We are working toward a continued broadening of participation in giving, because giving is an indication of spiritual health and vital to our future.

Leadership development:

We are at the stage where we need to expand the numbers of elders, deacons, and small group leaders. Behind the scenes, our hope is to create venues for both men and women to receive development in theology, leadership, and mission. This growing base of leaders is vital to our shepherding, our care, and our discipleship of our congregation.

Technology and communication:

We have made great strides over the years, but the world of technology continues to improve. Our office team is migrating our church database to a new platform called Planning Center Online. This platform will integrate all of our systems such as SPLASH check-in, online church directory, management of groups and teams, and giving. Timely, engaging communication is also vital in our increasingly mobile culture. It is like oxygen to the body of Christ. The past year has seen across-the-board improvement in our use of the web site, weekly update, Instagram, Facebook, and other forms of internal and external communication. Our hope and request is that all members stay abreast of our progress even while on the go, especially by reading the weekly update each Friday. The sermons follow a careful plan to build into the lives of our congregation over time, and the podcast will help you stay current if you’re on the road.

On-boarding of Joe White:

Our new assistant pastor will enhance our capacity to grow the church, with a focus on (but not limited to) young adults and the millennial generation. A capital fund has been established to make sure we don’t fall behind financially when Joe comes on board. We look forward to helping Joe, Tiffany, and their three kids get established in our community and ready to serve on the team. Joe’s start date will be June 19.

Hire new youth director:

As Fritz and Barbie Schalmo transition to their next chapter of ministry, we will be trusting God for the right person to lead our youth ministry in the future. The search process is beginning now, and we hope to have a new person in place by the summer.

Office makeover:

LBC actually does own valued property in Baldwin Park—our office/condo at the corner of Lake Baldwin Lane and Chatfield Place. This “ministry hub” gets near-constant use by small groups, leadership meetings, youth group, events, and vital admin work. After nine years of first rental then ownership, we are ready to enhance the appeal and usefulness of this facility with fresh paint, sturdy furniture, lodging for visitors, and technology/printer upgrades. If you’d like to take on a piece of this project, send a note to: hello@lakebaldwinchurch.com.

There's more! Stay tuned for part 2: Next Steps

Mike Tilley 1/15/16 Mike Tilley 1/15/16

2015-2016 Strategic Plan Update

Part one: Church-wide Assessment

As part of our annual strategic planning process, the leadership of Lake Baldwin Church—including elders, deacons, staff, small groups, and others—conducted a series of meetings and discussions to assess the life of the church in 2015 and set the course for the coming year. All of the participants engaged in a robust way, and we received a treasure trove of helpful input. Due to the large number of people participating in the process, we have not been able to include every comment. However, we were able to trace a number of common themes.

STRENGTHS

WELCOMING COMMUNITY

We get high marks for being a welcoming community with good relationships.

Many people have expressed that they experience deep relationships and healthy vulnerability in small groups.

Although we have a growing number of singles in our church, at least one person wanted to see more progress in this area.

GOSPEL-RICH WORSHIP

One LBC veteran, who has experienced the complete array of worship styles in the church’s 10-year history, said that she has seen an evolution in our worship. The word “rich worship” is used, along with “substantive” liturgy. One person (who comes from a more emotive Assemblies of God background) says, “I love the way Joel and Katie lead worship!”

It’s true that our worship style is different from a purely traditional service (on one end of the spectrum) and fully contemporary worship (on the other end of the spectrum). As a result, some have described a growth in their appreciation of our worship service. In one of our groups, people raved about the Christmas Eve service and the Good Friday service. One newcomer even said, “This is the first time I've enjoyed worship in years.”

The worship service is seen as a good place to invite non-churched guests. We want LBC to be a safe community where people can “belong before they believe,” so we try to make our worship services welcoming and accessible to everyone, regardless of where they are in their spiritual journey.

SPLASH KIDS

Attendance at Kids Camp 2015 reached another high water mark of 125 kids, 80% of whom came from outside our church. The program was conceived and written by our own Michelle Crouse, and our Kids Camp rates highly within our city.

Our team works hard to invite camp participants to church as a follow up, but that does not tend to work as easily as some might expect. We are always thrilled when families who found us through Kids Camp come back to worship with us throughout the year.

As for the weekly SPLASH Kids program, the kids love it!

Another new family mentioned SPLASH Kids as one of the reasons they are making LBC their church home. One great suggestion was to post parenting resources on our web site, and also to help moms.

SMALL GROUPS

For the first time, we took our assessment process to the small groups, and it was worth it. Almost everyone raved about their small group.

The hospitality gifts in our church make for enjoyable groups with good food and natural relationships. Many speak of the freedom to be honest and vulnerable in their groups. We have a caring church, and people experience that firsthand in small groups. We have 10 groups with around 120 participants. This is a high percentage of LBC attendees and attests to the great work of our small group leaders.

As we move forward, a key idea is to help people use their spiritual gifts in their groups.

GLOBAL MISSIONS

The Cabo, Mexico mission trip was life-changing, and could lead to a long-term church-planting partnership in Baja. The mission to Nicaragua was huge for those who went, and left a good ripple effect on our church as we were able to participate and pray. Our partnership with ICC, a network of churches in Europe, continues to mature.

“Everything we attempted in [the] area [of Global Missions] was a big success.”

Beyond this, we have many in our congregation contributing globally through their connection with Cru. The Global Missions Festival, January 9-10, was a success and helped many in our church expand their awareness and heart for the world.

VOLUNTEER CULTURE

Most churches rely on volunteers in some capacity. At LBC a robust volunteer system is essential because we meet in a school rather than having our own church building. In some churches, “20% of the people do 80% of the work,” but at LBC, that axiom has been dramatically reversed. We have about 80% or more of our congregation serving at least once a month.

In our assessment, we did hear concerns about the toll it can take to serve regularly for years at a time, or how the need for people to serve limits other things we can do on Sunday mornings. On the other hand, some view this as a meaningful way of building up the body. One young adult couple is a good example of the serving experience ate LBC:

Some have talked about how they have taken a break from serving while in a difficult stage in their life, only to return to serve in a new way. We want people to have the freedom to say “no” to volunteering while they’re in the midst of difficult or busy seasons of life without any shame or guilt, and our hope is that when people are ready to get involved, their commitment will be genuine and cheerful. “A positive no can lead to a powerful yes.”

CHALLENGES

MOBILE CULTURE

Many have observed that a high degree of recreation and travel consistently affects attendance on any given Sunday. Others wish that we could encourage people to arrive at church on time. These issues are not unique to Lake Baldwin Church, so it’s wise to not assume that our church is uniquely at fault.

While it is true that some people succumb to a consumer Christian culture and there is sometimes “subterranean” migration of Christians between churches in Orlando for a variety of reasons, we need to remember that most of the people who miss from time to time are highly committed to Christ and to LBC.

ASSIMILATION

We’ve had a number of wonderful new people who have “stuck” at LBC, and we can rejoice in this. At the same time, we face a continued challenge in (a) opening wide the front door, (b) helping people connect and stick, and (c) further closing the “back door.”

We have received many good suggestions about ways to improve our assimilation process, and we look forward to making this one of our priorities in the new year. The new signage has been well-received.

GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES

OUTREACH

The children of SPLASH Kids participated in the Baldwin Park Christmas Parade, one of our efforts to be present right here in our neighborhood.

80% of Orlando is non-churched, and most of our congregation is aware of our vision for bringing the gospel to those who are not yet believers. We have had a number of well-publicized outreach events throughout the year.

A number of individuals have expressed a desire to equip our people for evangelism. One newcomer to LBC reminded us of a great resource, Just Walk Across the Room, which the Wednesday morning Men’s group studied last year. Others defined specific ways that we can equip people in building common-ground relationships with non-believers, engaging in spiritual topics when they bubble up, and inviting people to church.

We do have a high percentage of people who are committed to building relationships with non-believers. The first step to evangelism is often to lovingly open our homes and lives to neighbors and friends who do not yet believe.

SPIRITUAL GROWTH

Our classes have been a hit in the past, and many expressed a desire for us to continue offering opportunities for biblical and spiritual education. Some people like the Sunday morning before church time slot, while others find that a challenge, depending on their stage of life.

We’re experimenting with learning cohorts, with good results. People rave about our shepherding plan, but we need to spread out and restructure its implementation.

Young adults appreciate the availability of our older adults for specialized mentoring opportunities and connection in some of our small groups, especially our women’s studies.

Our demographics are expanding. We have become a great place for mature single women and married women. The women’s retreat highlighted this and helped build community for women of all ages, marital status, and stages of life.

We also have a nascent college group, thanks to previous youth group involvement and our summer college Bible study.

Counseling is an asset at LBC, and we’re grateful for the work Fritz has done to help many people in our congregation and community.

BUILDING

Several people saw potential strategic advantages in getting a building: a sense of place and permanence, reduced need for set-up, and the capacity to offer more to the community. At the same time, there are many healthy, growing churches in our city and around the country who choose to use rented space for many years, and do quite well.

Since we are committed to wise stewardship and have an aversion to debt, our plan is to wait until God blesses us with the critical mass (people and money) to afford a building. In the meantime, our heart is to focus on healthy growth dynamics now, while trusting God for the future.

SERVING THE CITY

LBC members, John and Jane Hursh, leading a Toolbox 4 Life class.

We have a lot of grass roots efforts, as well as partnership with some effective organizations that are serving the city. While many love this about our church, some are in a stage of life where they feel too overwhelmed to participate as much as they might otherwise. The Habitat Project was a big milestone this year.

We’ve recently added a page to the website that features many of the organizations that are led or supported by LBC members. We hope to take advantage of these partnerships more in the future, and mobilize more LBC people to get involved in serving the city.

FINANCES

Thanks to God’s blessing and broad-based participation in giving, we finished the year with a positive account balance for the second year in a row. This has allowed us to fully fund the ministries of the church, along with offering support to church planting, global missions, and local needs. We have also been able to replenish reserve funds, achieving the goal of having three months of expenses in reserve. Looking ahead, we want to trust God continue to grow our giving base in anticipation of the time when Joe White joins our team as assistant pastor. To prepare for the 20% this will add to our budget, a fund has been established to receive “over and above” gifts. By God’s grace, this fund has over $80,000 in pledges with over $16,000 already given. Increased expenses in 2016 will also include the re-introduction of rental expenses for Glenridge, having completed the period of rental credit due to our in-kind gift of the sound/video system.

Mike Tilley 1/1/16 Mike Tilley 1/1/16

8 Reasons to Attend the LBC Global Missions Festival

When we align our hearts with God’s heart, and follow up with steps of faith, we become part of God’s plan in a fresh way. “Go and make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:19)

The first Global Missions Festival at Lake Baldwin Church is just around the corner (Jan 9-10). With all the Christmas excitement, this event may have creeped up on you. Or you might have heard about it over the past month through promos in worship, the weekly update, or Facebook, but you’re not sure if you want to put it in your calendar. Here are eight good reasons to be there:

1. Grow in Vision and Awareness: A number of people sitting around you in church each week are engaged globally. We’ve invited them to host tables at the Saturday night dinner. You’ll love hearing their stories!

2. Foster a Mexico partnership in the making: Do you remember the life-changing mission trip to Cabo, Mexico last summer? Our team got to know Peter Boling, a church-planting pastor in Baja, Mexico who hosted them. Peter will speak Saturday evening at the dinner, and he’ll also preach on Sunday.

3. Experience the life-changing power of short-term mission trips: Many at LBC have been transformed through mission trips to Japan, Mexico, Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, and Europe, just to name a few places. We want to engage the whole church in either going, supporting, praying, or just cheering on these border-crossing initiatives. In fact, you might want to consider going on a mission trip this summer! (If you’re open to praying about it, follow the festival registration link and sign up for the Sunday information luncheon with Peter Boling after church on January 10.)

4. Support the team organizing this event: The Festival was conceived by our Global Missions Team, with leadership from Ravi Jain and TJ Sellers. Two members of the team, Sarah Madsen and John Hutchings, have been involved in spearheading the Festival. This is a great chance for all of us to rally around young leaders in our church.

5. Encourage Growth as a Global Citizen: It’s a crazy world out there. We know that the gospel is the only hope. To affect the world, we need to learn about it and become global citizens. This mindset will make an impact on your travels, your view of world events, and even your parenting (it’s fun when kids get a taste of other nations, and want to learn a language).

6. Participate in Our History: Global engagement has been a big part of the LBC vision from before we even existed as a church. We just knew that God has blessed us with global connections, and that this would lead to great things. Over the years, God has used the people of LBC to make a difference in other nations.

7. Build memories and relationships: If you grew up in a church, you’ll remember the fun of fellowship dinners and the exposure to world missions. This Festival has a theme—Sobre la Mesa: "At the Table." We’ll have great food! But that food and fellowship will be linked to Christ’s global cause.

8. Explore God’s heart for the nations: When we align our hearts with God’s heart, and follow up with steps of faith, we become part of God’s plan in a fresh way.

“Go and make disciples of all nations.” (Matthew 28:19)

One of the core beliefs of Lake Baldwin Church is that the gospel of Jesus Christ is...

Conclusion:

You may have wondered about the timing of the Festival, so soon after the New Year. There are two reasons for choosing this weekend:

One, we want to get way ahead in setting up mission trips for this summer. (If you're interested in going to Cabo in 2016, you're invited to an information luncheon with Peter Boling after church on January 10th! Follow the festival registration link to RSVP.)

Two, there’s a connection to the global church with Epiphany, January 6, when Christians celebrate the light of the gospel being brought to the nations.

So will you be there? Let us know you're coming by registering now!

Mike Tilley 12/16/15 Mike Tilley 12/16/15

The Little Town

This bright portrait of Christ is not only painted on the dark canvas of the Assyrian invasion. It is also painted forevermore on the dark canvas of human history, including our present distress. Let the peace of Christ be your comfort in your troubled times.

Bethlehem means “house of bread.” Ephrathah means “fruitful.” As Bruce Waltke says, “Bethlehem represents a new start for Christians.” What is your new start?

Sermon date: December 13, 2016
Text: Micah 5:1-5

1 Now muster your troops, O daughter of troops;
siege is laid against us;
with a rod they strike the judge of Israel
on the cheek.
2    But you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah,
who are too little to be among the clans of Judah,
from you shall come forth for me
one who is to be ruler in Israel,
whose coming forth is from of old,
from ancient days.
3    Therefore he shall give them up until the time
when she who is in labor has given birth;
then the rest of his brothers shall return
to the people of Israel.
4    And he shall stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord,
in the majesty of the name of the Lord his God.
And they shall dwell secure, for now he shall be great
to the ends of the earth.
5    And he shall be their peace.

The Little Town

Imagine living in a country going through desperate times. Imagine living in a country that is threatened by external enemies who want to destroy you. Imagine living in a country with failed political and spiritual leadership inside the country. We need look no further than Micah 5 to see that kind of situation. We also need look no further than current events in our world.

Last Sunday, when we began our journey to Bethlehem, we said that the fall of mankind had cast a long shadow of darkness. I said that we would never understand the reality of our world apart from understanding the fall. That message came on the heels of the terrorist attacks in San Bernardino, which came on the heels of terrorist attacks on Paris and Beirut. Friday we learned that Geneva, Switzerland might be at risk. Sporting events and restaurant visits are approached with that thought, that fear, crossing your mind.

These events have occurred alongside violence in our cities, including the senseless murder of a 28-year-old pregnant pastor's wife named Amanda Blackburn, inside her home in Indianapolis. Meanwhile, the political debate continues to heat up in our country, as even Christians jump into the fray on different sides, on a whole range of issues.

But the application of Micah 5 is not only to desperate times on a global scale. This passage also applies to your troubled times. Micah was a prophet and a preacher. If only we could have listened to his podcast or read his blog posts. Actually, they are here, clothed in the language of Micah’s world.

This prophecy was given in the 8th century B.C. during the siege of Jerusalem by Sennacherib. The story of that siege is recorded in 2 Chronicles 32. Their leaders had failed them (Micah 3:1-4). Jerusalem was under siege from Assyrian invaders (Micah 5:1). This bright portrait of the little town of Bethlehem, and the ruler who would be born there, is painted on the dark canvas of the Assyrian invasion.

How are we to live in dark, troubled times?

Look to Bethlehem, not the prideful cities.

Bethlehem was the city of David, and that’s why Joseph and Mary had to return there, to their ancestral home, during the census that was decreed by Augustus in Luke 2. When the magi from the east came in search of the newborn king, they came first to Jerusalem, the seat of power. But the Bible scholars directed them to the little town of Bethlehem, based on Micah 5:2.

Micah said of Bethlehem, “. . . though you are small among the clans of Judah.” You see, the dwelling place of God is with the humble, not the proud. Jesus said, unless you become like a child, you can’t enter the kingdom of heaven.

In the first century, Rome was the prideful city of political and military power; Athens was the prideful city of philosophy and wisdom; and Jerusalem was the prideful city of self-righteous religion. But when the Christian movement was small and beleaguered, the apostle Paul said that Christ was “the power of God and the wisdom of God.” (1 Corinthians 1:24)

Matthew Henry put it this way: “A relation to Christ will magnify those that are little in the world.” Mother Theresa was small in stature, but she pushed back the darkness in Calcutta. When Europe was besieged by the Turks, the bubonic plague, and a corrupt medieval church, Martin Luther and his 95 theses on the Wittenberg door brought the blazing light of the gospel to millions.

Today, we are seduced by the political power of Washington, the economic power of New York, or the media power of Hollywood. But let’s not forget the little town of Bethlehem.

Some of us might feel small, and we wonder if we have a significant part in God’s plan. We might feel small because of age, social status, past failures, personality, appearance, or having less than a full portion from God.

In his book No Little People, Francis Schaeffer wrote that “in God’s sight there are no little people and no little places. Only one thing is important: to be consecrated persons in God’s place for us, at each moment.”

“God is able to draw from smallness the greatest things.” (Bruce Waltke)

Hope in Christ, not in political saviors.

One of the lessons of the book of Micah is leadership failure. Indeed, it’s one of the lessons of the Old Testament. Micah 5:1 says, “They will strike Israel’s ruler on the cheek with a rod.” This was a way of humiliating the ruler of an enemy nation.

One of the sad moments in American history was the assassination of President John Kennedy in 1963. The sadness came home to me again in 1982 when I was in Tokyo, talking to a Japanese friend at Rikkyo University. He said that’s when the Japanese people lost their faith in America.

This political season, with more debates coming up, we are once again becoming emotionally invested in our candidates, and spewing venom at those we dislike. The prophet Micah pointed to someone greater.

He would be born in Bethlehem. His origins would be “from of old, from ancient times.” (Micah 5:2) He was the fulfilment of all the ancient promises, from Genesis on. Beyond that, Jesus said of himself, “Before Abraham was born, I am.” (John 8:58) He was the pre-existent Son of God, the second person of the Trinity.

“Israel will be abandoned until the time.” (Micah 5:3) From the time of the exile, there would be no kings until the coming of Christ. With pastoral care, Micah is giving them hope so that the faithful can remain vigilant in their troubled times. The same is true of us as we await the 2nd Advent.

“Where is this ‘coming’ he promised?

"Ever since our ancestors died, everything goes on as it has since the beginning of creation.” (2 Peter 3:4)

“But do not forget this one thing, dear friends: With the Lord a day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years are like a day. The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance.” (2 Peter 3:8-9)

He would be "born of a woman," the seed of Eve and the child of the Virgin Mary. Galatians 4:4 takes on rich significance.

Trust in God’s plan, no matter the chaos.

Ten years ago, Lake Baldwin Church did not exist, except in the mind of God. Last night, our SPLASH Kids rode a float in the annual Baldwin Park Christmas parade, as we invited people to Advent services. We have a vibrant worship service and a great kids program to invite them to. Resilience over time has been worth it.

You see, God does have a plan, and we have a role to play in it. That’s why it’s important that we not be seduced by powerful cities and political saviors. Micah 4:11-12 reminds us that God has a plan even in the worst of times. What is his plan?

He would gather his “brothers” into a new family of the faithful (Micah 5:3). This would happen in the age of the Spirit, between the first and second coming of Christ. When Jesus was told that his mother and brothers were looking for him, he replied, “Who are my mother and my brothers? Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.” (Mark 3:31-34) This new community was forecast in Acts 1:8, and gathered into one church made up of Jews and Gentiles. This church made it through the persecution of the Roman Empire. It was the confessing church that stood up to Hitler. It is the Egyptian Coptic Church standing up to Isis beheadings. It is the Ethiopian church fighting hatred with love. Do you see, that where God has placed you, that you are part of this story?

He would “stand and shepherd his flock in the strength of the Lord.” (Micah 5:4) In John 10, Jesus said that he was the good shepherd, who would know and feed and lead his flock. This care the chief Shepherd now extends to the church through his under-shepherds, according to 1 Peter 5. “This prophecy finds its fulfillment in the church.” (Bruce Waltke) There are green pastures and peace for his church, even in chaotic times. Think of John 16:33—“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Is the Lord your shepherd? Do you see that this peace, these green pastures, are for you? (Psalm 23)

Finally, his greatness would extend to the ends of the earth (Micah 5:4). He is a global God, and this is not just theme of our upcoming Global Missions Festival, it is the teaching of Scripture. Do you see that our church is part of this global story?

Conclusion

Bethlehem means “house of bread.” Ephrathah means “fruitful.” As Bruce Waltke says, “Bethlehem represents a new start for Christians.” What is your new start?

Are you not yet a convinced follower of Christ? Consider this newborn king prophesied by Micah, who would become the perfect ruler. Where failed kings were struck on the cheek with a rod by their enemies, the innocent Jesus was struck on the head again and again. Even more, he suffered and died for our sins on the cross so that we could have peace with God.

Why not receive this newborn king this Christmas, and have a new start?

Alison Epps 11/30/15 Alison Epps 11/30/15

Guest Post: Team Nicaragua Medical Mission, October 2015, part 2

At 5:55 pm Saturday afternoon October 24th Team Nicaragua departed from Atlanta to share The Gospel and serve the medical needs of the beautiful Nicaraguan people in the Bluefields area on the eastern coast. Two LBC members, Brita Zuehlke and Angela Robinson were part of the team. The following are excerpts from Brita's daily Facebook posts during the trip. We are thankful for the work that was done to advance God's Kingdom and for Brita's willingness to share her story with us.

From October 24th-30th, 2015 Team Nicaragua traveled to Managua share The Gospel and serve the medical needs of the beautiful Nicaraguan people in the Bluefields area on the eastern coast. Two LBC members, Brita Zuehlke and Angela Robinson were part of the team. The following are excerpts from Brita's daily Facebook posts during the trip. (Read part 1 HERE!) We are thankful for the work that was done to advance God's Kingdom and for Brita's willingness to share her story with us.

October 29th - Hospital Tour and Travel back to Managua:
We had the opportunity to tour the hospital in Bluefields. For several of us it was like a step back in time and for others (our younger providers) it was quite eye opening. One woman delivered a baby right there in the hallway and we were able to witness the baby's first cry. The equipment is old and supplies are low and patients bring their own linen and medicine before they can have surgery. Privacy, comfort and rest are not priorities here. The one similarity that stood out was the medical students who acted just like our medical students filing in behind their attending like little ducklings and writing patient notes.

At 10 am we were back on the pangas heading back toward El Rama and the long bus ride back to Managua. On the river we observed many shoreline dwellings, rusty but functioning fishing boats and small canoes. This was yet another day without rain and we were again amazed at the beauty of His creation.

During the bus ride and at the evening devotion we shared stories and reflections from the previous few days. Leith told us about a young family consisting of mom and 4 children who showed up as we were closing the clinic. Leith was tired, we were running out of supplies and all of the kids needed glasses and had respiratory problems. The children aged 8-15 and were very polite and answered all questions clearly. The youngest was a girl and was asked:

“Danielle, do you need glasses, too?”

“Yes ma'am, so I can read my Bible.”

“Well, do you have your own Bible?”

“No ma'am.”

We had just given away our last Spanish Bible, but Leith had a hunch that she had something in her bag and sure enough, there was the New Testament in Spanish that had been packed for another mission trip 5 years ago. The girl was beaming and her eyes lit up as her name was written on the front page. She was very proud to have her very own Bible. The mom winked a “thank you” with her beautiful brown eyes.

Craig and Jackie told a story about a mother and a daughter who came to clinic around lunchtime. The mother had a severe leg injury that required vascular surgery at the hospital or she would be at risk of losing her foot. We tried to convince her that she had to go there immediately but she said she could not go because she had no one to take care of her daughter. As a team we prayed for her, involved the church members to help take care of the young girl, then we called for a taxi to take her to the hospital. During the tour of the hospital we saw her in a bed awaiting surgery and her face lit up when she saw us and she thanked us for everything. Father David, Craig, and Jackie had a touching moment where they prayed over her bed in preparation for her surgery and reassured her that her daughter was doing well.

Dr. Tellez, Indira, and Vladimir all thanked us on behalf of all the patients and were commenting the fact that we all are willing to give up our own vacation, pay for part or all of the trip out of our own pockets, and then work long days to take care of los Nicaraguense—“their people.” They were all amazed that there can still be such kind and selfless people who give so much and get “nothing” in return.

October 30th - The Las Torres Neighborhood:
We spent a lot of time sitting on the school bus from Bluefields to Managua. But it was not until Friday, as we drove into Las Torres, that it was evident of something special. As our bus arrived at CALT, Christian Academy of Las Torres, we were greeted by the huge smiles and overwhelming excitement of children screaming with joy and laughter. This was quite a surprise!

When we started setting up clinic in the school, it was a culture shock to see dirt floors, poor utilities, and an infrastructure that didn't match the warmth and joy that all the children and teachers showed us. Before we saw our first patients, we toured the local neighborhood and housing arrangements of the people in the area. Often, small houses no larger than an American kitchen were home to whole families of parents and multiple kids.

One of the families invited us into their home and introduced us to Brittani, a 4-year old girl afflicted with cancer. Father David was asked to come in and lay hands on her and offer prayer. We would later see her in the clinic. Bordering between houses was a drainage ditch that emptied into Lake Managua and was full of trash and sewage. There were kids in the water collecting plastic bottles to recycle. It was truly an eye-opening experience to see the conditions people can live in.

In clinic, we saw a wide array of diseases ranging from chicken pox to congestive heart failure. Although the patients were all in need of medical care and prayer ministry, their spirits could not have been brighter. When Brittani arrived, she ran to us with open arms and began to “play doctor” with our stethoscopes and headlamps. She was playful and hopeful, as any 4-year-old kid should be. The group reflected on this patient encounter and were tremendously touched by how she was like any other kid, she just wanted to play! She demonstrated pure innocence.

Humbling. The one word that could describe the entire day for all of us. It was a reminder of morning devotion by Father David where we discussed humility and how God calls us to be humble so he can raise us up.

Final Reflections:
We have now all returned home to our respective families and friends and are processing and reliving all the stories and experiences from this past week. We are posting on Facebook and longing to share. But, how do you respond to a co-worker who asks how it was but only has 10 seconds to listen? We can talk for hours if you let us. What do you highlight? Which picture can sum it all up? We have all been changed by this trip, through the leadership from Ali, from the new friendships that were developed and by all the love that was showered upon us by the people of Nicaragua, young and old. God worked through and in each of us this week and we were all blessed by it.

Brita Zuehlke and her husband, Reed, live in Orlando and are members of Lake Baldwin Church. Brita is originally from Sweden but has lived in the US since 1983. She works as a physical therapist at Florida Hospital, Winter Park. Brita started traveling to Nicaragua in 2004 with the Medical Mission Team from Lutheran Church of the Redeemer in Atlanta. She is also on the board of a Christian School in Managua for impoverished children where she has been able to develop deep lasting relationships with both teachers and students. She has a special place in her heart for the children of Nicaragua.

Alison Epps 11/27/15 Alison Epps 11/27/15

Guest Post: Team Nicaragua Medical Mission, October 2015 - part 1

October 26th - Clinic Day One:
Dr. Tellez's church provided us the biggest clinic space we've ever had which was both a blessing and a challenge. The first day of clinic is always a learning experience as new team members adjust to working with our translators, experienced team members and our local helpers. We were overwhelmed by how many wonderful church members came out to make our day run more smoothly.

Our providers set up in the main worship building. Our “dentistas”, Vania and Debbie, set up in what we called “the cage” with Mylinh as their assistant. We had some airy, covered spots to spread out glasses, happy feet, evangelism and pharmacy stations.

Gene led the group in singing on and off throughout the day including a rousing chorus of 'Days of Elijah'. Alvaro Jr. (a.k.a AJ) immediately took a liking to optometry and it was wonderful to have him and our bus driver Julio helping out there. This year we got our pharmacist, Pam, back. With her team of helpers, she got every one of our Nica friends taken care of. Mark “MacGyver” was also back this year and he built a zip line for the kids out back by the playground.

We were also blessed to have some U.S. missionaries who live in Bluefields able to help us out. And a major blessing, NO RAIN! Overall it was a wonderful first day and we've learned a lot to help us make our clinics flow better and keep ourselves and our patients happy and healthy!

October 27th - Clinic Day Two:
On our second day we left on panga boats to Rama Cay, which is a beautiful island about 20 minutes from Bluefields. God provided us with blessings to serve 350 people. Last January, several of our team members served this same area and were assisted by a man named Rau'l who helped make it so successful that we all wanted to return. Rau'l had asked if it was possible to get a Bible in large print if we ever returned. Not only were we able to fulfill his request but we gave him a leather bound monogrammed Bible and we had it blessed by Father David as it was presented to him.

During our day a mother brought her 4 year old daughter with cerebral palsy to be treated by our team. It immediately became clear that this loving mother spends all hours of her days caring for this child and carrying her wherever she goes, including the times she has to cook, clean and do laundry. The girl was unable to sit on her own and she cannot be placed on the floor or ground since she also can't crawl or control her head. Brita and Mark put their heads together and created a “buggy” from a suitcase that had been donated to Bruce and Barb by their church in Idaho. When our physical therapist and “MacGyver” visited the family they were able to make many suggestions as to how the family could utilize the buggy to improve the whole family's life going forward. We hope that the girl will now have a different view of the world and will hopefully have a chance to improve on her sitting ability, the mom will have her hands free to do her household chores more easily, and this will help save the mom's back for the future as the girl grows up.

Many team members have switched to roles totally unrelated to their occupation or even out of their comfort zone. The first example is Virginia who is a nurse by training but easily and eagerly jumped in to help in many other areas wherever she was needed. Bethany, who is our team photographer, put her camera down and brought out paint and paper for the kids to create some art projects that were finished off with fun stickers for all. Angela was our champion greeter and in charge of getting heights and weights of all 350 that came through the clinic, putting everyone at ease and smiling her way through the day. Father David and Pastor Danny washed the feet of many and Dave Neilson ended up helping in the “store”, distributing clothing to those in need, including handing out dresses to both girls and women!

Our last story of the day is about a small boy with Hydrocephalus (fluid on the brain) and multiple deformities of both legs. His aunt brought him in a small wheelchair; his mother was unable to come because she is terminally ill with cancer. Carol (Swish) noted that the boy was dressed in very heavy garments and appeared to be overheated. She immediately went to our “store” of donated items and found him a whole new outfit with a hat that had been donated from Redeemer in Atlanta. Father David prayed over the boy and was able to fit the boy with a pair of sunglasses that once belonged to his own son. This little boy had the most radiant smile and blessed all of us with his joy.

October 28th - Clinic Day Three:
This day started out the same as every day in Nicaragua with a rooster crowing at 4:30 am, about an hour before any of our cell phone alarms were set to play our favorite wake-up melodies. Breakfast at 6:30 and bags and people loaded on the trucks by 7:30. The short open air back of the truck ride through town filled our nostrils with plenty of diesel fumes and other mixed fragrances, some better than diesel, others not so much. Our clinic was held in another church and we were again blessed with plenty of help from the congregation. Two young ladies manned the front area, others helped in our “happy feet” area which included both foot washing and new flip-flops, some served as translators and a couple of ladies controlled the flow through the clinic.

A middle aged woman with chikungunya and very unsteady gait came limping up to Ellen's table. She ached everywhere, all her joints were swollen, her feet, her ankles, her hands, her shoulders and her neck. She was one of at least twenty patients this day that had been diagnosed with chikungunya which is a virus similar to Lyme disease but it is transmitted by mosquitos. To date there is no medicine to prevent or treat this disease and it can take months or even years to recover fully from it. Ellen examined her, gave her some vitamins and pain pills and sent her to our therapy section to get something supportive for her wrists and ankles. Upon further examination we noticed that she needed some more supportive shoes than what she had. As we searched high and low for her size Ellen asked why her patient was still sitting there and when we told her she said: “Well, that's my size, she can have mine and I'll get some flip-flops.” So Ellen took her shoes off and gave them to her patient.

Our dental “office” was a smooth running machine by today and two nurses, Linda and Mylinh, who previously knew nothing about dentistry had quickly morphed into efficient and fast acting multitasking dental assistants who were able to sterilize instruments, set up the next tray, hold a flashlight and hand instruments to the dentists all while calming multiple crying children and explaining the medicine given to the previous patient. Our dentists, Vania and Debbie said they have never been as productive as today. Vania had a patient named Axel who arrived very afraid and crying so she sat down to just talk to him. After a minute he said he just wanted to hug her and so they hugged, and he held her tight and would not let go so Vania in her wisdom continued the session by placing the topical anesthesia, and after that she injected him and proceeded to pull the tooth, all while he kept his arms around her waist. Axel left happy stating that he didn't feel any pain and gave her yet another hug and a kiss to top it off. Vania shared that this was the first time she has done anything like that and yes, children often teach us new ways of doing things.

Here are a few reflections from our interpreters who stay at our side all day long, beginning with Devin who is with us for the 5th time and lives in Bluefields:

“I am a translator and I took my daughters to work today and my youngest, Abieli, asked if her grandfather was going to be there; she was referring to Bruce because she loves seeing his white hair and calls him grandpa. When I took her home she told her mom about every single person she met, she spoke about the dentist who gave her a toothbrush, she said a beautiful lady gave her sunglasses and another one gave her a toy (Bubbles) from the movie Home. Joshabeth, my older daughter shared with me that she was so encouraged by what she saw that she now wants to become a doctor."

Our second story comes from Cristiam who came with us on last minute notice but immediately fit right in and hopefully will be joining us in the future.

“A young lady entered the clinic with severe abdominal pain and came to Ali's station. It became apparent that this was much more than what we could treat and that she needed an ultrasound to properly diagnose her condition. She had tried to go to the local public hospital but their ultrasound machine is currently broken and she had no money to go to a private clinic. The ultrasound was going to cost 500 cordobas which is about $20. Our gracious leader, Ali, with her big heart quietly gave the woman the money and then they both hugged and cried. The woman was heading straight to the clinic and was going to share the results with us as soon as they were available.”

This last story comes from Alvaro, our trusted Nicaraguan partner who helps Ali get all the permits, arranges for our bus, and is always here for us.

“So this police officer came to the clinic to get a second opinion for his ear problems and leg pain since he heard the doctors from the US were here. He was seen by the providers and given a referral as well as pain medicine but he was still not satisfied and seemed unhappy. As he came through Father David's prayer station we simply asked what in his life we could pray for. The man slowly started sharing little by little about his pain, his family troubles, and also asking for protection for his family. As the prayer ended his body was relaxed and tears were rolling down his face and he thanked us and said he was really glad he came!!"

Alison Epps 10/30/15 Alison Epps 10/30/15

Guest Post: 2015 ICC Retreat Wrap-up

October 19-23, Mike and Molly Tilley and Joel and Katie Pollard attended the International Christian Community (ICC) Pastors' Retreat in Teisendorf, Germany. Our pastor, Mike Tilley, serves on the board of ICC, and the Pollards were invited to lead worship for this year's retreat.

This post, written by Katie, originally appeared on Joel and Katie's personal blog on October 23.

The majority of conference attendees at Mirabell Gardens during a day trip to Salzburg, Austria.

The ICC Pastors’ Retreat drew to a close [on October 22], and I’m struggling to wrap words around the experience we’ve had. If you’ve been following along on Facebook or Instagram, you can see that we’ve heartily enjoyed our travels in Munich, Teisendorf, and Salzburg. I’m sorry our posts have not included more substantive information about the retreat, but it seems that it takes more than a handful of characters in an expedient social media post to capture the powerful ways that God is working here.

There were pastors in attendance from Aix en Provence, Leon, Marseille, Toulouse, St. Paul, and Nice, France; Munich, Germany; Istanbul, Turkey; Iasi, Romania; Tblisi, Georgia; Toronto, Canada; and of course, Orlando, Florida. The keynote speaker was Tim Challies, a former pastor, writer, and blogger from Toronto. He preached from 2 Timothy, James, 1 Thessalonians, and Titus, and he covered a wide range of topics applicable to pastors, including the supremacy of Scripture, the dangers of envy, and the catastrophic effects of pornography and distorted sexuality in our culture. Although Joel and I didn’t participate in every session, we greatly appreciated Tim’s insight and his commitment to teaching the gospel candidly and clearly.

There were also a variety of breakout sessions which included presentations about the vision and future of ICC, doctrinal teaching, practical advice for assimilating into foreign culture, a panel discussion about the refugee crisis, and a special session on counseling techniques by Elizabeth Matthias.

Perhaps our favorite part of the retreat was the time set aside for “field updates” at the beginning of each session. All the pastors had the opportunity to give a 10-15 minute presentation about their particular churches and ministries. It was informative to learn about their common struggles and very uplifting to hear testimony of all the unique ways God is working to transform individuals, impact major European cities, and equip people as they travel to the far corners of the Earth with the good news of the gospel.

During one or two sessions each day, Joel and I led the pastors in a brief worship service. Joel designed these services to include several songs in addition to corporate prayer, confession, and readings from various catechisms and historic confessions. The meeting space was beautiful, with high ceilings and pine rafters, and the acoustics were perfect for voices and guitar. Joel’s worship sets were rich in gospel content and—as is often the case, thanks to the work of the Spirit—the themes aligned beautifully with the teaching each day. We were greatly encouraged by the feedback we received, and I do believe that God used us to edify these pastors as they rested and filled themselves with the Word.

We held a Communion service [Thursday] night, and it was a particularly poignant and moving time of worship. Because our group was small in number, we could face each other at a long table and share the elements in a uniquely intimate and communal way. The unhurried reverence was powerful, and I personally experienced very sweet personal worship. This is often a challenge as a musician and leader—and, I suspect, as a pastor—when the demands of facilitating a church service so easily distract us from the holy experience that is the Lord’s Supper.

We came here hoping to encourage the ICC pastors, but I think we have benefitted from this experience at least as much as they have. It has been so exciting to meet these leaders and hear stories of what God is doing all over Europe through the vibrant churches He has planted here.

I had a vague understanding prior to this trip that for many years Europe has been in a state of spiritual decline—that despite a wealth of rich religious heritage, the old traditions and monuments have become mere icons, and spiritual darkness is prevalent. But now, when I picture a map of Europe, I can see pinpricks of light piercing that darkness, scattered across the continent. I’ve had conversations with at least a dozen real people who are here on the front lines, spreading the good news of Jesus Christ. The gospel is alive and active, and lives are being changed through the work of these men and their families. Thanks be to God!

I’m also very excited that in the coming months I’ll be able to participate in the ICC movement by helping redesign and invigorate their web presence. I’m thrilled to be able to use my writing skills and [a humble amount of] content marketing experience to help tell the story of what God is doing through this organization.

Update on October 30: It was a joy to lead at Bavarian International Christian Fellowship —one of the two ICC churches in Munich—on October 18th. On October 25th, our last day overseas, we also had the privilege of leading alongside the worship team at Munich International Community Church. Attending these two church services was a powerful experience, and we are thrilled that we were able to partner with the people of BICF and MICC by assisting with their worship services during our visit.

Thank you all for your prayers and encouragement. We’re pleased to report that we raised 100% of our financial support shortly before we departed the U.S! We are humbled and grateful for this opportunity, and I’m very excited to see how God will continue to use the seeds he has planted in our hearts.

“Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.”
– Ephesians 3:20–21

Katie Pollard is the administrator and communications director for Lake Baldwin Church in Orlando, FL. She is also a writer, musician, avid reader, craft guru, wife, and mother. Katie loves intelligent novels, a good cup of tea, and those complicated board games that only your nerdy friends like.

Mike Tilley 8/31/15 Mike Tilley 8/31/15

Prayer Initiative - Day 31

It is a wonderful habit, to give thanks as we pray. With thanksgiving, we trust God for answers that we do not yet see, while expressing gratitude for his presence and for the blessings that he has already given.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you."

Psalm 34:8

"Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him."

Today's Prayer Focus

Today let’s take time to rejoice in God’s love and his power to answer our prayers.
Let’s give thanks to God that we can trust him for the future answers to our prayers.
Take some moments to give thanks in the midst of your circumstances, knowing that we can trust that our lives are part of his larger story.
Let’s thank God in advance for all that he will do in the months to come.

"Taste and See That the Lord is Good"
Mike Tilley

This is our last day of the prayer initiative. Thank you for being one of 83 people who signed up to pray daily for the work of the church in the coming months. Today we simply want to offer thanksgiving to God, as an expression of our faith in him.

A number of times in Scripture, prayer seems to be associated with both spiritual alertness and giving thanks. It seems that God wants all of our prayers to be accompanied by an attitude of thanksgiving. It is a wonderful habit, to give thanks as we pray. With thanksgiving, we trust God for answers that we do not yet see, while expressing gratitude for his presence and for the blessings that he has already given.

For all of us, my guess is that our daily prayers this month have often been a kind of discipline, a laboring in prayer. Don’t be discouraged when your prayers have grown faint, or when you’ve forgotten to pray. Let’s thank God that he is a loving Father, who does not upbraid us for our failings in prayer, but who welcomes our prayers with the delight of a Father. For some, perhaps your love for prayer has been nurtured, as an acquired taste. Let’s continue our fellowship with him. “Oh taste and see that the Lord is good!” (Psalm 34:8)

Mike Tilley 8/30/15 Mike Tilley 8/30/15

Prayer Initiative - Day 30

I’m so thankful that God has blessed us with an inspired, hard-working staff team. While the work is often challenging, we know that we are dependent on the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and there is great joy and rest in that.

2 Timothy 2:1

"You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus."

1 Thessalonians 5:25

"Brothers and sisters, pray for us."

Today's Prayer Focus

For the staff who serve the congregation of Lake Baldwin Church.
For Joel and Katie Pollard, and their children, Sam and Evie. For Joel as he plans and leads worship; for Katie as our administrator and communications director.
For Fritz and Barbie Schalmo, and their son, Jack. For Fritz as he leads LBC youth and offers free counseling. Pray too for Lindsay Buono and Scott as they assist with youth.
For Michelle Crouse, along with Joshua and their children, Daniel and Tiffany. For Michelle as she leads the volunteers, teachers, and children in SPLASH Kids.
For Mike and Molly Tilley and their 4 adult children.

"Prayer for Strengthening Grace for LBC Staff"
Mike Tilley

While grace often refers to our full acceptance with God on the basis of the work of Christ, it is also associated with strength. All of us are in need of daily grace from God, strengthening us to obey him and to serve him. Paul urged Timothy to be strong in the grace of Christ.

Having prayed for our deacons, elders, small group leaders, and our many volunteers, today we want to unite to pray for our LBC staff. While they work hard throughout the week, they especially need God’s grace on Sundays, when they come prepared to serve our congregation and our guests.

I’m so thankful that God has blessed us with an inspired, hard-working team. While the work is often challenging, we know that we are dependent on the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and there is great joy and rest in that. Our heart is for people to enter into worship; for kids to have fun with friends as they learn about Jesus; for youth to take the next step in their faith journey; and for the grace of Christ to be shown in all that we do. We need your prayers for that!

Mike Tilley 8/29/15 Mike Tilley 8/29/15

Prayer Initiative - Day 29

Without letting go of the truth of the gospel, Paul worked to find common ground with people for the sake of the gospel. This reminds us of the Lord Jesus Christ, who put on flesh to “move into the neighborhood.” He came “to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.”

1 Corinthians 9:19, 22

"For though I am free from all, I have made myself a servant to all, that I may win more of them. 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."

Today's Prayer Focus

For the run-up to the Relational Wisdom 360 seminar with Ken Sande: vision among our whole congregation; logistics of running the event; promotion in the community.
For the vision and planning lunch tomorrow; for all the pieces to fall into place.
For Ken’s ministry to our congregation on the topic of relationships, with application to family, business, church, and other relationships.
For our outreach to the community, through personal invitations, networking with businesses, and media outreach.

"Free From All, a Servant to All"
Mike Tilley

Recently I was having lunch with a business leader in our city. Though he does not profess faith in Christ, he has a favorable view of Lake Baldwin Church. I’ll never forget one of the things he said to me: “Mike, I like that Lake Baldwin Church does intermediate events.” He was referring to his family’s positive experience with Kids Camp, an event where over 50% of the kids came from families outside our church.

I think that the apostle Paul, writing in 1 Corinthians 9, would love the idea of common ground events and relationships. Without letting go of the truth of the gospel, Paul worked to find common ground with people for the sake of the gospel. There was even an element of personal sacrifice: “I have made myself a servant to all.” This reminds us of the Lord Jesus Christ, who put on flesh to “move into the neighborhood.” He came “to serve, and to give his life a ransom for many.”

The upcoming Relational Wisdom seminar (RW360) with Ken Sande is one of those “intermediate events” when the people of LBC build a bridge to the people around us on the basis of the common ground topic of relationships. Let’s unite as a church to bathe this event in prayer—for logistics, promotion, personal invitations, and the day of the event itself. It will take place on Friday evening and Saturday morning, October 9-10.

Mike Tilley 8/28/15 Mike Tilley 8/28/15

Prayer Initiative - Day 28

As we continue to pray for the needs of our church and for fruitful ministry, may we remember that our prayers, ministry goals and plans are to be rooted in His Word. Personally, and as a congregation, let us continually ask for a deeper love for His truth—that our roots would go down deep and drink from the benefits of the Living Water.

Psalm 1:1-3

"Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers, but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law he meditates day and night. He is like a tree planted by stream of water that yields its fruit in its season..."

Today's Prayer Focus

For God’s Spirit to give us an appetite for the Scriptures.
For greater depth in our understanding of God’s Word; for growing levels of interest in classes that will be offered in the coming months and years.
For eyes to see and savor Christ in the pages of Scripture, responding to him with love and devotion; for our hearts to be shaped by his love. “Christ in all of Scripture, grace in all of life.”
For obedience to the Scriptures, prompted by love.

"Rooted in the Word"
TJ Sellers

During my journey as a follower of Christ, there have been several seasons in which I found myself asking the question, “Do I REALLY believe the book that I am basing my values, beliefs and worldview upon, contains the true words of the only God?” The “counsel” of the world had convinced me that the stories contained within Scripture were too outlandish and made me want proof. I felt like there should be more tangible evidence of the Word. My faith was being shaped by the “counsel of the wicked” and not “the law of the Lord.”

As I battled these feelings of doubt, reading the Word was low on my list. However, as I made meager efforts to read Scripture, I can confidently affirm that it was the very Word of God that delivered me from skepticism. My delight became rooted in the very book I was doubting, through the work of the Holy Spirit.

TJ Sellers and his wife, Anna, have attended Lake Baldwin Church since 2010 and recently welcomed their first child, Adalyn Emory. Originally from California, TJ moved to Orlando in 1991 at the age of five. A graduate of Boone High School and the University of Florida, TJ now works for a construction management company. In his free time, TJ enjoys anything outdoors including water sports, backpacking, beach volleyball, soccer and traveling. Combining his passion for building, travel, and the church, TJ enjoys participating in overseas missions in developing countries.

Mike Tilley 8/27/15 Mike Tilley 8/27/15

Prayer Initiative - Day 27

God loves his church, referred to in 1 Peter 5:2 as “the flock of God.” Elders who shepherd God’s flock have been made overseers by the Holy Spirit. And the church was obtained by the blood of Christ. What does it mean that elders are called to shepherd the flock of God?

Acts 20:17, 28

"Now from Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called the elders of the church to come to him... Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood."

Today's Prayer Focus

For our elders, who have been elected by the church: Danny Anderson, Ed Holtz, Bart Johnson, Mike Mikkelson, and Richard Hostetter.
For Jim Cunningham, who will be presented to the congregation for election as elder.
For the spiritual and family lives of our elders; for hearts and lives shaped by the gospel.
For God’s grace as they pray for and shepherd those under their care.
For God’s wisdom in decisions, as we meet to pray and chart the course for the future.

"Elders to Care for the Church"
Mike Tilley

First, shepherds are called to know their flock. At LBC, elders giver oversight to around 15-20 individuals or families. They know their names, and they pray for them.

Second, shepherds are called to feed the flock. While this feeding happens through sermons, small groups, and classes, elders are accountable for the quality of teaching.

Third, shepherds lead the flock. They give thought to the future of the church, and they are called to lead by example.

Fourth, shepherds guard the flock, seeking to protect the church from false teaching, divisiveness, and destructive behaviors that harm the church and dishonor God.

While the calling is a high one, elders are acutely aware of their inadequacy and need for God’s grace. Today, let’s pray for our elders and their families.

Mike Tilley 8/26/15 Mike Tilley 8/26/15

Prayer Initiative - Day 26

Accepting one another doesn’t insist upon same-mind agreement on a particular issue. It does, however, imply that amidst our differences, we are to interact with others according to the same mind of Christ Jesus and his ways of love.

Romans 15:7

“Wherefore accept one another, just as Christ also accepted us to the glory of God.”

Today's prayer focus

For our acceptance of one another to result in continued unity in our church body.
That Christ’s acceptance of us in the gospel would shape our heart for others.
For every type of person to feel included at Lake Baldwin Church.
For guests to feel that acceptance on their first visit... and every other visit!

"Accept One Another"
Kim Anderson

When we consider the many different people, personalities and situations we encounter on a daily basis, what does it really mean when Paul commands us to "accept one another"? Does acceptance necessarily mean agreeing with one another?

What does it look like for business partners to accept one another when vision for their company differs? A husband and wife are not of the same mind regarding school choices, and two friends are in stark disagreement, yet each are called to accept one another. What does accepting one another practically look like for us at LBC in the midst of all our preferences?

A hint is given in verse 5 when Paul says, “May the God who gives us perseverance and encouragement grant you to be of the same mind with one another according to Christ Jesus.” Accepting one another doesn’t insist upon same-mind agreement on a particular issue. It does, however, imply that amidst our differences, we are to interact with others according to the same mind of Christ Jesus and his ways of love. In all its beauty, accepting one another is the practice of engaging others in ways that honor their dignity as image bearers of God, while remembering God’s acceptance of us. As we at LBC seek Jesus’ ways of thinking and loving. Verse 6 says, “with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Would you pray that as a church, we would continue to grow in the practice of accepting one another, resulting in our one voice glorifying our great God?

Anchored by God’s Word, Kim Anderson is passionate about awarding worth and cultivating growth in women by helping them understand their identity in Christ. Married for 25 years to her husband Danny, they have four children. A writer and speaker at heart, Kim is grateful for the gift of words!

Mike Tilley 8/25/15 Mike Tilley 8/25/15

Prayer Initiative - Day 25

Our hope for each small group is that they would offer gospel community, gospel growth, and yes, gospel hospitality. It’s such a great experience to know and be known, and to get to know people in their homes, sharing meals prepared by various members of the group.

1 Peter 4:8-10

"Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms."

Today's Prayer Focus

For the various small groups meeting in homes around the area. That they would flourish with gospel community and gospel growth.
For God to raise up additional small group leaders as more people get involved.
For our Small Group Leaders’ huddle on September 13, for vision, communication, and connecting to the big picture.
For our homes to continue to be places of gospel hospitality in a fragmented culture, welcoming our church family and new guests who don’t yet have a church home.

"Offer Hospitality to One Another"
Mike Tilley

It appears from 1 Peter that church is a place where love is both tested and practiced. In the testing part, love covers a multitude of sins. The church is also a place to offer hospitality, to serve one another, and even receive strengthening grace from one another. These things would most likely be experienced outside of Sunday worship, in smaller, home-based communities.

These smaller communities are the heart behind our LBC small groups. The groups are diverse and meet various needs: women’s groups and a men’s group; coed groups with singles and marrieds; groups for young adults; and others. Our hope for each group is that they would offer gospel community, gospel growth, and yes, gospel hospitality. It’s such a great experience to know and be known, and to get to know people in their homes, sharing meals prepared by various members of the group.

For this fall, pray that our small groups would be places of great joy and refreshment. These groups will also be the “first responders” in times of crisis, so pray for those times too. May God use our culture of hospitality to create a thirst for Christ in today’s world.

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. (MATTHEW 6:9-10)

“The First Three Petitions”

How to pray...

For the Family

Contributors

"He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." (Colossians 1:13-14)

"Lament and Confession in the Wake of Violence"

1. The Christians were facing trials and persecution.

2. There was confusion about the return of Jesus Christ.

3. Some had grown weary in doing good.

"What do you like about this church?"

"I planted, Apollos watered, but God was causing the growth." (1 Corinthians 3:6)

What are our next steps in the coming year?

Here are some fresh initiatives for the coming year:

engage every small group with the vision:

Improve assimilation Process:

TEACH AND DEVELOP INDIVIDUALS:

Equip people for personal outreach:

Expand outreach in Baldwin Park:

STRENGTHEN Women’s Connection and Development:

ENGAGE BROADLY in serving the city:

BUILD GLOBAL MISSIONS Momentum:

ENGAGE College STUDENTS and twentY-SOMETHINGS:

speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of … Christ. From him the whole body … grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.

—Ephesians 4:15-16, NIV, emphasis added

What is our vision?

What are our values?

What will it take to pursue the vision?

Prayer:

Healthy volunteer culture:

Broad-based giving:

Leadership development:

Technology and communication:

On-boarding of Joe White:

Hire new youth director:

Office makeover:

Part one: Church-wide Assessment

STRENGTHS

CHALLENGES

MOBILE CULTURE

ASSIMILATION

GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES

OUTREACH

Sermon date: December 13, 2016Text: Micah 5:1-5

The Little Town

Trust in God’s plan, no matter the chaos.

Conclusion

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Psalm 34:8

Today's Prayer Focus

"Taste and See That the Lord is Good"Mike Tilley

2 Timothy 2:1

1 Thessalonians 5:25

Today's Prayer Focus

"Prayer for Strengthening Grace for LBC Staff"Mike Tilley

1 Corinthians 9:19, 22

Today's Prayer Focus

"Free From All, a Servant to All"Mike Tilley

Psalm 1:1-3

Today's Prayer Focus

"Rooted in the Word"TJ Sellers

Acts 20:17, 28

Today's Prayer Focus

"Elders to Care for the Church"Mike Tilley

Romans 15:7

Today's prayer focus

"Accept One Another"Kim Anderson

1 Peter 4:8-10

Today's Prayer Focus

"Offer Hospitality to One Another"Mike Tilley

Subscribe the LBC Weekly Newsletter

Sermon date: December 13, 2016
Text: Micah 5:1-5

"Taste and See That the Lord is Good"
Mike Tilley

"Prayer for Strengthening Grace for LBC Staff"
Mike Tilley

"Free From All, a Servant to All"
Mike Tilley

"Rooted in the Word"
TJ Sellers

"Elders to Care for the Church"
Mike Tilley

"Accept One Another"
Kim Anderson

"Offer Hospitality to One Another"
Mike Tilley