The elder met Tuesday and we started our evening on our knees praying for the church. We recognize our need for God to be the centre of all we do and plan to do. We bring before Him the needs in the church, petitioning Him to help guide us as we shepherd those that He has put in our care. It is always humbling to be in a room with men giving themselves to our almighty Father’s will. Some elders had the opportunity to pray with people who came to receive prayer. Please come and receive prayer for whatever your needs might be from 6:30-7:00pm on our meeting nights. If that night does not work, you can request prayer on the website or come to us on a Sunday morning.

After prayer were joined by the elder candidates and had an opportunity to let them share a bit about who they are and also ask any questions to the current elders about the role, what it has looked like, and how we have been impacted through this role God has called us to. We prayed over those men, asking God to continue leading them to further clarity on the path He has for them. The Wheels of Hope car ministry team joined us and shared how they hope to bless people in need of a reliable vehicle. The elders prayed over them. If you are mechanically inclined or have a vehicle or parts you would consider donating, they would be grateful. You can reach out to the church office.

We celebrate what God has been doing in the church. Easter was such a beautiful time to remember Christ’s death and resurrection. We were able to do this through participating in the Lent season and a sermon series in Leviticus, focusing on the holiness of God and pointing to the atoning sacrifice that would be complete in Christ. We hope it was a blessing to spend that time focused on who Christ is and what he has done for us.

This month we celebrate so much that has happened and look forward to what God will continue to do. We celebrated 17 baptism, 30 new ministry partners, 22 people graduating from level 1 Equipped to Counsel, and 56 people completing Freedom Session. God is so good. “…if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”  Please join us in praying for the those who are continuing learning and joining the Care and Counselling Team. We have new classes at the school of ministry, and 65 people have signed up. The Mens Summit is happening May 2 and we will be joined by Dr Dave Currie who will be leading 2 sessions on Champion Your Marriage and Command your Legacy.  Men, there’s still time to register.

Safe Families and Gospel Commonwealth are two of Central’s newest ministry partnerships. And we are excited to share more about them in some upcoming services in May and see what God will do in both ministries and the those who lean in and get involved.

As elders we continued our conversation about how to deal with the growth that is still happening in our church and how it is affecting so many different areas. We are continuing to look at best options to address all the needs of Central to support our vision of reaching the eastern Fraser valley with the gospel. We covet your prayers as we continue to discern, discuss, and plan.

Central did an engagement review with Loewen Kruse CPA and the overall review found our financials to be “in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organization”. We are thankful to the Stewardship Team and staff for there faithfulness to steward what God has given us.

As we continue into spring, find some time to go for a walk, grab a coffee, or just spend time with a friend or family member and share about what God is doing in your life. We pray for you to be filled with the love of Christ and to let that love spill out to those around us.

Travis Slootweg
- On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

Finance Update

The elders recently reviewed Central’s financial position for the first quarter (January–March), and there is much reason for gratitude and encouragement. God continues to provide through the faithful generosity of His people, and it is evident that many are investing meaningfully in the Kingdom work taking place through Central.

While overall giving is comparable to the same period last year, it is important to note that 2025 figures included contributions from Promontory. When that is taken into account, giving across our four current campuses has increased by an encouraging 16% year-over-year—a clear sign of growing engagement and shared commitment to the mission. At present, our year-to-date budget-to-expense shortfall is $141,265. This aligns with our typical seasonal pattern and does not represent an unexpected concern at this stage of the year.

Expenses remain well managed and within approved budget parameters. A notable investment this quarter was in missions, particularly through the youth team’s trip to Mexico in March—an opportunity that reflects our ongoing commitment to both local and global outreach. Looking ahead, several previously approved capital projects will be completed in April. These include upgrading the speaker system in Agassiz, undertaking necessary roof repairs in Chilliwack, and covering the cost of our annual external audit.

We are also pleased to report that our external accountants, Loewen Kruse, have completed their review. Their assessment affirms that Central’s financial practices are well-structured, with clear controls in place and strong overall stewardship.

Above all, we give thanks to God for His continued provision. We also invite each of you to prayerfully consider your part in this shared mission—to see the Gospel continue to advance throughout the Eastern Fraser Valley.

ELDER'S PRAYER

We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

Tuesday, June 16 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

Request Prayer

Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

We met again as elders this past Tuesday, beginning our evening in prayer. We spent time interceding for those with physical, spiritual, and relational needs, and it is a true blessing to come before the Lord in this way.

Lots of ministry continues to happen at Central. The winter term of the School of Ministry has concluded, and registration is now open for the spring term beginning the first week of April. Two courses will be offered: Preach the Word – Teaching Scripture in Today’s World and On the Road to Emmaus – Walking with Jesus through the New Testament. Sign up to either of these for a deeper dive into the Word.

Please keep the youth and leaders in your prayers as they left Friday morning for Reynosa, Mexico, where they will serve for a week of ministry at Children’s Haven.

On Easter weekend we are inviting the congregation to participate in Central’s 24 Hours of Prayer beginning April 4 at 8:00 a.m. You can sign up on the church’s website.

We look forward to celebrating new ministry partners and baptisms this Easter. As a church, we are committed to equipping people spiritually, and because God has been so faithful, we have also seen meaningful growth in the number of people joining us. While continuing to rely fully on God’s guidance, we as elders are prayerfully discussing future plans to accommodate this growth, particularly at our Chilliwack Campus.

We also discussed the importance of communion as a reminder of Christ’s sacrifice and what He has done for us through His work on the cross. As it says in Luke 22:17–19, “And He took a cup, and when He had given thanks He said, ‘Take this, and divide it among yourselves. For I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.’ And He took bread, and when He had given thanks, He broke it and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is My body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of Me.’”

Our prayer is that you experience a deeper sense of God’s grace and mercy through his Son Jesus Christ each time you partake of communion!

“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ!" - 1 Corinthians 15:57

Yours in Christ,

Ken Vink
- On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

Finance Update

As we step into 2026, we do so with a deep sense of gratitude and expectancy for what God is continuing to do in and through Central. Our mission—to be authentic followers of Jesus who lead others to follow Him—remains the driving force behind every ministry, initiative, and resource entrusted to us.

The elders recently reviewed our financial update through the end of February and were encouraged to see that our ministries are not only active and fruitful, but also operating within or below their approved budgets. This reflects both a heart for wise stewardship and a shared commitment to seeing the Gospel advance across our communities.

In terms of general giving, donations are currently in line with—or slightly below—last year’s pace. However, when we factor in Promontory’s 2025 contributions, overall giving has increased significantly, totalling $358,919. We are thankful for this evidence of faithful generosity.

We are currently experiencing a gap between giving and expenses, sitting at $132,113, which is consistent with historical trends for this time of year. The elders noted that part of the budget last year was designed to put $100,000 into a reserve fund. The elders were encouraged to hear that we were able to meet that commitment in anticipation of leaner giving months that traditionally occur during the Summer. 

Beyond the numbers, we are especially encouraged by the impact of your generosity. Giving to the Benevolent Fund remains strong, enabling us to meet real needs in practical, relational, and Gospel-centered ways. The Lake Errock Food Bank continues to serve as a meaningful expression of Christ’s love—providing food and clothing while opening doors for Gospel conversations and care. If you would like to participate in this ministry in a practical way, donations of food and clothing can be placed in the bins located in the foyer at each campus.

We want to sincerely thank you for your faithful partnership. Your generosity is fueling the mission of Jesus across the Eastern Fraser Valley. Lives are being touched, needs are being met, and the Gospel is being proclaimed.

Let’s continue to trust the Lord together, giving thanks for His provision and looking ahead with faith for all that He will do.

ELDER'S PRAYER

We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

Tuesday, April 21 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

Request Prayer

Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

We recently hosted “Inclusion in Practice” for our Central Kids team—a night to celebrate what God is doing in our ministry and to grow in how we welcome and disciple children with disabilities and high support needs.

Click the link below to listen to the message, and then dive into practical ways to build into Sundays.

Listen

Download PDF

We started by thanking God for the growth we’re seeing: more kids, more families, and a huge team of faithful volunteers. We reminded ourselves that kids ministry is not childcare; it’s disciple‑making. Our vision is that every child would be rooted in Christ, built up in faith, and learning to live for Him in an environment that is safe, secure, welcoming, and where they truly belong.

⁶ Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, ⁷ rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.

Colossians 2:6-7

Our guest, Alicine Grochowski from Southridge Fellowship, helped us think biblically and practically about disability. She reminded us that children with disabilities are:

• Made in the image of God
• Intentionally created
• Necessary members of the body of Christ
• Co‑laborers in the kingdom when they know Jesus

Our goal is not to “fix” kids to fit church, but to remove barriers so they can fully belong and participate.

Alicine also reframed behavior as communication. Running, shouting, withdrawing, or refusing often signal unmet needs (like hunger, fatigue, sensory overload), missing skills (like how to ask for help or transition), or problems kids don’t yet know how to solve. Instead of only asking, “How do I stop this?” we can ask, “What are they telling me, and what do they need?”

She highlighted the difference between self‑control and self‑regulation. Kids can’t reliably control their behavior if their bodies and brains aren’t calm and feeling safe. When a child is in “fight/flight/freeze,” reasoning and lectures don’t work. Our first job is to help them regulate; only then can they learn and respond well.

Practical Ways to Live This Out

Here are some simple practices we can build into Sundays:

1. Assume behavior is communication.
   When a child is struggling, pause and ask: “Are they hungry, tired, overwhelmed, confused, or needing connection right now?”
   
   
2. Help kids regulate before you correct. 
   Use a calm tone, name what you see (“You really want to move right now”), and then offer a way to move or calm: wall pushups, carrying something, a short walk with a leader, a drink of water, or a quieter spot for a minute.
   
   
3. Use clear, positive instructions.
   Say what you want instead of only what you don’t want:
   “Feet on the floor,” not “Don’t jump.”
   “Walk in the hallway,” not “Stop running.”
   “Quiet mouths, eyes up here,” instead of “Stop talking.”
   
   
4. Make the environment your ally. 
   Whenever possible, give kids:
   Easy access to water and simple snacks (within your ministry’s guidelines)
   Visuals of “what’s happening now and what’s next”
   Built‑in movement (quick jumps, stretches, or “heavy work” between segments)
   
   
5. Pick your battles and guard the relationship.
   If a child is doing what you asked but with some attitude, consider “dropping the rope” in the moment rather than escalating. You can coach tone later; keeping them regulated and connected now matters more.
   
   
6. Keep your posture: “I’m for you.” 
   Aim to consistently communicate, in words and body language: “You’re safe here. You’re wanted here. I’m on your side, even when it’s hard.”

As we keep practicing these things together, our prayer is that Central Kids increasingly becomes a place where every child—including those with high support needs—can encounter the love of Jesus, grow in faith, and know they truly belong.

Got questions? We'd love to answer them!
Please contact Crystal Stulp | Kids Pastor - crystal@centralcommunity.ca

The Elders met again this past Tuesday for our monthly meeting, and as is our normal practice, we started with prayer. Our prayer time is generally broken down into two types of prayers. The first we call “frontline prayer” and it includes prayers like the following:

• That we would have the courage to confess our sins and humble ourselves
• That we would have compassion for the lost and zeal for the flourishing of the church
• That we would have a yearning to know God, to see his face, and to glimpse his glory

These frontline prayers reorient our hearts towards humility. We praise God for who He is, we remind ourselves of who we are, we ask Him to make plans clear and to help us submit to His leading. We repent of sins. We ask to see His kingdom grow.

The second kind of prayer is for all of the needs of those in our church. We desire to rejoice with those rejoicing and mourn with those who mourn. Often during our meetings we pause to pray about specific topics and ask for the Holy Spirit to intercede. If you would ever like to be prayed for by the elders, please come to one of our meetings between 6:30-7pm and we would absolutely love to pray with you.

At this meeting, we met with Gabriela Carter, our Care and Counselling Director. She walked us through a new policy which will help us to better understand, prevent, and respond to domestic violence and abuse. Gabriela is very gifted in her role and is equipping many people with the tools needed to provide good counsel for others. We pray that the ministry will help many people heal from spiritual, emotional, and relational pain.

February 18th was Ash Wednesday, the beginning of Lent. Lent is the period in the Christian calendar in which we meditate on our sin and prepare our hearts to both mourn Christ’s death on Good Friday and celebrate his resurrection on Easter Sunday. The sermon series during this time will be in Leviticus. We encourage you to get a Lent Guide and participate in the fasts and readings to prepare your heart for Easter.

Our AGM is scheduled for March 8, at 7pm in the sanctuary. 2025 was truly another year of blessing after blessing. Our God is on the move at Central and we are going to celebrate what he is doing. Come and hear stories of ministry highlights and testimonies of changed lives.

One of the blessings we are continually reminded of is growth. God is sending more and more people to all of Central’s campuses. In fact, there are certain days where we almost cant all fit. Therefore, this blessing is coming with some logistical challenges. It is clear that God is growing the church, but please also join us elders in prayer as to how to handle that growth. We truly want to be faithful and wise as we follow God’s path in this area.

Pastor Matt gave us an update on all of the ministries happening, and there are so many, I wont list them all. However, I would like to highlight the food bank at Lake Errock. There are many less-fortunate people in that community, and so Central started a food bank to help. It runs twice a month, one Wednesday and one Sunday. This ministry has continually grown and last week there were 52 people (mostly unchurched) who came to be blessed with food and clothing. The supply of food was completely emptied. This ministry has created amazing opportunities for practically sharing the love of Christ to that community. Some who originally came for food are now attending church regularly. They are truly receiving both bread and the bread of life. Pray for this ministry, that God’s love will shine ever brighter on that entire community.

God continues to amaze us elders with everything that is happening at all campuses. It is such a privilege to lead. Thank you to all who read this and please continue to pray, pray, pray for the Lord’s church and all of his people in it.

DJ Hiebert
- On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

Finance Update

The Elders received a report that detailed income and expenses for the first month of 2026, noting that January is historically our lowest month in terms on donations. Providing a comparative giving report to the previous year will prove slightly challenging this year as Promontory is no longer equated in both the giving and expenses. An adjusted income report noted that overall giving is up 5% over last year for the first month. Expenses are all well within budget parameters with most well below budgeted allotments. One exception is found in our Missions and Outreach budget line that shows the donation that Central made to Promontory Church to assist with expenses as they get started. At the January meeting the elders approved investing in capital projects that were put on hold last year. Funding these projects, from a portion of the 2025 surplus, show an income verses expenses shortfall of $74,215. This amount is in keeping with the previous year, and to be expected as we start a new fiscal year.

Giving to the benevolent fund continues to be strong, with donations collected providing relief to families and individuals in need, supporting the Food Bank in Lake Errock, ministry at Seabird Island, and supporting people who are struggling with the challenges of life. Thank you for your generosity. The elder are grateful for Central’s continued commitment to see our vision become a reality as God uses his church to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley. The elders encourage you to consider your part in the collective mission that God has given to Central.

ELDER'S PRAYER

We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

Tuesday, March 17 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

Request Prayer

Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

Life has a way of filling every available space. Calendars crowd quickly, energy runs thin, and even the best intentions can quietly drift to the margins. For many parents and grandparents, faith is deeply valued—but remembering God in the middle of real life can feel harder than we expect.

This post is about why remembering God matters so deeply, how Scripture calls us to pass faith on intentionally, and why the gospel gives us hope even when we fall short.

Click the link below to listen to the 'Remembering God' message, and then dive into practical ways to live out this calling in everyday family life.

Listen

Remembering God in Our Own Story

In the early 2000s, my husband and I went through a season where money was incredibly tight. Bryce was working as a logger, and during this particular winter, there was simply no work. We had two young children, and we made the difficult decision that there would be no Christmas presents and not even a Christmas dinner that year.

A week before Christmas, a neighbour knocked on our door and handed us a Christmas card. Inside was $500. A few days later, Bryce’s boss showed up with a gift card so we could buy a full Christmas dinner.

We will never forget God’s provision in that season. And because we don’t want to forget, we tell that story—often. We tell it to our kids and to our friends as a way of remembering God’s faithfulness and goodness.

God’s Call to Remember

Scripture is filled with this same invitation. When God rescued the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, He didn’t just deliver them—He told them to remember. In Exodus 13:3, Moses said to the people:

“Remember this day. It’s the day you came out of Egypt. That’s the land where you were slaves. The Lord used his mighty hand to bring you out of Egypt.”

Throughout Scripture, God continually calls His people to remember who He is and what He has done—and to pass those stories on. As parents, we need to be clear about this truth: the salvation of our children is not within our power. That belongs to our sovereign God, and that is very good news. But Scripture also tells us that we *do* have a responsibility—to teach our children about God, to talk about His faithfulness, and to help the next generation know Him.

Remembering on Purpose

In Deuteronomy 4:9, Moses urges the people:

“Be very careful. Don’t forget the things your eyes have seen… Teach them to your children and to their children after them.”

Later, in the book of Joshua, we see this call lived out in a powerful way. After God miraculously stopped the Jordan River so the Israelites could cross on dry ground, Joshua instructed twelve men—one from each tribe—to take stones from the riverbed and set them up as a memorial. Joshua explained why: “In the future, when your children ask, ‘What do these stones mean?’ tell them… The Lord your God did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the Lord is powerful and so that you might always fear the Lord your God.” (Joshua 4:21–24)

God wanted physical reminders—visible, tangible markers—that would spark questions and open conversations about His faithfulness.

What Happens When We Forget

The book of Judges gives us a sobering picture of what happens when remembering stops.

“After that whole generation had been gathered to their ancestors, another generation grew up who knew neither the Lord nor what he had done for Israel.” (Judges 2:10)

This wasn’t an overnight failure. It was a slow drift. Stories stopped being told. Worship shifted. Eventually, God was replaced with idols. Forgetting always leads to replacing. And while our idols today may not look like Baal or Ashtoreth, the reality is the same.

Modern Idols in Family Life

Idols are not just statues—they are anything that captures our hearts, time, money, and attention in ways only God was meant to.

For many families, idols don’t look bad. They look good.

• They look like packed schedules and constant activity.
• They look like sports or commitments that quietly crowd out church and spiritual rhythms.
• They look like screens that disciple our children for more hours than we do.
• They look like achievement, success, comfort, safety, and happiness at all costs.

Most of us don’t choose idols intentionally. We drift into them. And our children are watching—not with judgment, but with attention—learning what truly matters by what we prioritize.

Prioritizing God Begins With Us

So how do we keep from forgetting? Scripture doesn’t give us a complicated strategy—it gives us an intentional one.

In Deuteronomy 6, God says: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength… Impress these commands on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.”

God wasn’t speaking to pastors or religious professionals. He was speaking to parents. Before faith is something we teach, it’s something we live. This kind of discipleship happens in everyday life—messy kitchens, car rides, bedtime conversations. It’s not about perfect family devotions; it’s about presence and consistency.

As Ruth Haley Barton writes, “Those who are looking to us for spiritual sustenance need us first and foremost to be spiritual seekers ourselves.”

When parents prioritize God—through Scripture, prayer, Christian community, and a genuine love for Jesus—it naturally overflows into family life.

The Hope of the Gospel

The message of Christianity is not, “Try harder. Remember better. Don’t mess this up.”

The gospel tells us something far better: *we are forgetful people, but we are loved by a faithful God.*

Throughout Scripture, God’s people forget Him—and yet He never forgets them. Where Israel failed to remember, God remained faithful. And in Jesus, God remembered us fully.

On the night before His death, Jesus took bread and said: “Do this in remembrance of me.”

Jesus Himself is God’s greatest reminder—of grace, forgiveness, and rescue. Our hope is not that we will perfectly disciple our children. Our hope is that Jesus is the perfect Saviour.
When we fail—and we will—we don’t hide in shame. We return to Him. We repent. We remember. And we begin again. As Lamentations 3 reminds us:

“The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

Returning Again and Again

Our children don’t need perfect parents. They need parents who are pointing to a perfect Saviour.

• They need to see us repent.
• They need to hear stories of God’s faithfulness.
• They need to watch us reorder our lives when something else starts to take God’s place.

Remembering God doesn’t mean we never]]> This past Tuesday, we met as an elder team and started our meeting, as we usually do, on our knees in prayer. With humble, thankful hearts, we praised our Lord for His faithfulness and grace, and for His abundant care throughout this past year. We also got to spend time in prayer with the deacons celebrating their ministries and the blessing they are to the church. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=140 Tue, 20 Jan 2026 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/140/EldersUpdateJanuary2026

This past Tuesday, we met as an elder team and started our meeting, as we usually do, on our knees in prayer.  With humble, thankful hearts, we praised our Lord for His faithfulness and grace, and for His abundant care throughout this past year.  We also got to spend time in prayer with the deacons celebrating their ministries and the blessing they are to the church.

We received Ministry updates for December 2025 and were amazed of God’s provision to finish the year, in such a special way.  Over 2070 people joined us for our Christmas Eve services and heard the good news! By God’s grace and the generosity of our congregation, we exceeded our 2025 budget, by approximately $82,000.  Central has never given so much in a year!  Moreover, God’s transformational power has been evident throughout this period with so many people being led to Jesus, being baptised, and many becoming ministry partners.  As well, our Ministry of Care and Counselling was launched; we started a School of Ministry; Commissioned a church, Promontory Community Church; and had tremendous growth in our youth and kids ministries.  This year has been an incredible faith story and a joy to celebrate God’s provision for his church through his people working together.

Looking ahead, all ministries have now launched for the new year.  School of Ministry classes have resumed for the winter semester (34 students in ‘Love In Action’; 59 for ’Through the Eyes of Jesus’); Women’s Ministry are doing a study in Malachi (north & south). On January 24, Central will host an Adoption Seminar with guest speakers Aaron & Kveta Rose.  We have a churchwide worship night happening February 1 to praise God in all that He has done this past year at Central.  Pastor Crystal along with three elders will be sharing at the Remembering God family equipping class on February 3.  Our next Baptism and Ministry Partnership Class is February 7, 2026.  So, overall, to start 2026, a lot is going on, and it is a privilege to witness God’s transforming work in people’s lives across the Eastern Fraser Valley.

In addition, regarding Promontory Community Church, we were pleased to find that they finished the year on a strong footing. The elders determined to further bless Promontory with a generous one time financial gift to provide them with support to start the new year.  We rounded out the evening by learning about a partnering opportunity with a nationwide organization called “Safe Families” (Canada).  This Christian based non-profit ministry helps keep children safe and families together.  The elders reviewed this opportunity and agreed that Safe Families be adopted as one of our key strategic ministry partnerships.

In summary, this has been a deep faith enriching year and we look forward to continuing to serve you and are excited to see how God moves His Kingdom forward in 2026.

Leonard Feldes
- On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

Finance Update

The elders received the year-end financial summary for 2025 at the January meeting. The report was cause for celebration, as not only was the budget met, donations  exceeded the budget. Our historic giving pattern held true for 2025 with a full third of our annual giving being received in the last two months of the year. Giving increase some 10% over the previous year, with total donations being $3,272,818. We are grateful to the staff for managing the expenses of the church with diligence, with expenses for the year being $3,150,544. As the result of a surplus in income over expenses, the elders authorized investing in capital projects that have been on hold, or are of an urgent nature. Replacing the sound system in Agassiz was approved, as was replacing a section of the roof on the Chilliwack building. Other investments in infrastructure will include sound treatment in the Sleese room, where children and youth meet weekly, and where the bulk of the School of Ministry classes are taught in order to maximize sound quality.

The elders invite you to join them in praising God for his provision through the church, thereby allowing us to fully engage in our mission to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley with the Gospel. As we launch into a new budget year, the elders encourage you to continue to participate in the ministry God has given to Central through your faithful giving, and the investment of the resources entrusted to you for Kingdom advancement.

ELDER'S PRAYER

We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

Tuesday, February 17 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

Request Prayer

Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

CHRISTMAS
THE CHRIST CANDLE
_{^{THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD}}

Theme:

Christ Our Light Has Come

Scripture Reading:

• Luke 2:25–32 | Simeon rejoices to see the Lord’s salvation.
• Further Reading | The true light has come into our world and God shines His light in our hearts through Christ: Isaiah 9:2, 60:1-3; Matthew 17:2; John 8:12, 12:35-36; 2 Corinthians 4:6; 1 Peter 2:9; Revelation 21:23-25, 22:5.
• Further Reading | The Word is a light and Jesus is the physical embodiment and ultimate expression of God’s will, word, and being: Psalm 119:105, 130; Proverbs 6:20-23; John 1:1-5, 9-14.

Devotional

All Advent we’ve been waiting—and now we celebrate: The Light has come! Jesus Christ is born, and through Him, God’s salvation has appeared to all people. Simeon held baby Jesus and called Him “a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to Your people Israel.”

Jesus is the Light that darkness cannot overcome. He shines into our hearts, gives us life, and leads us in truth. At Christmas, we remember not just that Jesus was born, but that He still shines today—saving, guiding, and transforming us; and one day will come again to restore the earth and shine so bright for all eternity that there will be no need for the sun or moon in the sky because the glory of God gives it light, and its lamp is the Lamb (Rev. 21:23).

Reflection Questions:

• How has Jesus shone into your life?
• How can you let His light shine through your words and actions this week? (Isa. 49:6; Matt. 5:14-16)
• Where do you see His light overcoming darkness in your world today?

Application:

Let Christ’s light shine in you this week. Read the Christmas story and thank God for sending His Son. Consider the ways you can reflect His light in your relationships, neighbourhood and community.

“I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will not walk in darkness,
but will have the light of life.”

^{John 8:12}

Prayer:


“Lord Jesus, You are the Light of the world. Thank You for coming to bring hope, peace, joy, and love. Shine in our hearts and through our lives, so others may see You and give glory to God. Amen.”

Got questions? We'd love to answer them!
Please contact the Office - office@centralcommunity.ca

The elders met again this past Tuesday for our last meeting of 2025. Much of our prayer time was spent in praise for the year our Lord has given us. We feel an immense privilege to simply be a part of what God is doing through Central. We thanked God for all of those who gave their life to Jesus and also those that were baptised this past year. We are in awe of the growth in all of our campuses, not merely the growth in the number of people attending regularly, but primarily the spiritual growth of our church community. Praise God for all he is doing in His church! May He continue to guide our paths and keep us humble and obedient.

December is often a time of both looking backwards in reflection and looking forward in anticipation. We spent a lot of time intentionally praying and planning for the coming year. So much work goes into every ministry: the staff and elders strategize and arrange all the details of calendar events, programs, and budgets to allow the church to operate effectively.

We are trying our best to anticipate the needs of our people and accomplish the goal of making disciples and sharing the love of Christ with every single person who comes through any of the campus doors. Of course, all of this ministry is not done by the staff and elders alone. So much of the work of making disciples is done by you, our wonderful ministry partners! We see all of you bringing your gifts, talents, time, and effort into serving Jesus whole-heartedly. It takes a whole church to truly be the church. Ultimately, all of our human efforts alone can accomplish nothing. God is with us and he continues to strengthen and equip all of his for his work in the world. This annual process of reflection in 2025 brings us so much joy.

Christmas is right around the corner and we are excited to celebrate the birth of our savior together. This is often a time in the year when our neighbours, friends, and family are more open to attending Church or having faith conversations. Please pray that God moves through the Eastern Fraser Valley and that he softens hearts and opens eyes to the truth. God has been moving in the hearts of the ministry partners at Central. This is a generous church  of people on mission. Currently, we are over $500,000 short of meeting our yearly budget. We ask to pray about how you can participate in meeting this deficit, and then give generously in the posture of worship.

January starts a new season of ministry and many programs will start up again. We want to highlight Small Groups, our Care and Counselling ministry, and also the School of Ministry. Consider signing up now and start the New Year by taking intentional steps forward to a God-centered life.

Thank you again for following Christ. We consider it a true honour to be your elders. Continue to pray for us as we lead and do our best to humbly submit to God’s perfect plan.

Merry Christmas!

DJ Hiebert
- On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

Finance Update

As the year comes to a close, please consider how you can contribute to the final $554,000 needed to meet our 2025 budget.

Your generosity fuels our mission to make disciples and helps us fulfill our vision to reach the eastern Fraser Valley with the Gospel for the glory of God and good of all people. We are in awe of all that God has done in and through Central in 2025!

YTD Giving: $2,624,939
2025 Budget: $3,178,858
Needed to achieve our Vision & Budget: $553,919

All donations to Central for the 2025 tax year must be received on or before December 31, 2025 in order to be eligible for a 2025 donation receipt. Those donations received after December 31, but postmarked before are still eligible for receipting purposes. You can give online, at our Welcome Centre on Sundays, or drop by the church office:

Wednesday, December 24 | 9.00am - 12.00pm
Thursday, December 25 | Closed
Friday, December 26 | Closed
Monday, December 29 | 9.00am - 3.30pm
Tuesday, December 30 | 9.00am - 3.30pm
Wednesday, December 31 | 9.00am - 1.00pm
Thursday, January 1 | Closed
Friday, January 2 | Closed  

Thank you for partnering with us in the disciple-making task Jesus has given us in the eastern Fraser Valley and beyond!

Give

ELDER'S PRAYER

We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

Tuesday, January 20 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

Request Prayer

Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

THE ANGELS' CANDLE
_{THE LIGHT OF LOVE}

Theme:

Love That Shines for All

Scripture Reading:

• Luke 2:8–20 | The angels praise God; the shepherds go to see Jesus.
• Further Reading | The love of God in Christ: Psalm 36:5-7; Lamentation 3:22-24; John 3:16–17, 15:9-13; Romans 5:8, 8:35-39; Ephesians 2:4-7; 1 John 4:7-12. 
• Further Reading | The theme of angels’ rejoicing about the redemptive work of Jesus: Job 38:7; Psalm 148:1-2; Isaiah 6:2-4; Luke 15:10; Revelation 5:11-12, 19:1-10.

Devotional

The angels sang, “Glory to God in the highest!” because God’s love had come down to earth. In Jesus, we see what love truly looks like—not just words, but a gift. God loved us so much that He sent His Son to rescue us. Let this thought fill you with wonder: Love came down and was placed in a manger.

The angels rejoiced because the birth of Jesus represented God's ultimate act of love, revealing his long-promised plan for salvation and reconciliation with humanity. The angels, who exist in God's presence, were witnessing the moment when God closed the distance between heaven and earth — and He did it for love.

Reflection Questions:

• How has God shown His love to you this year?
• Who is someone you can show God’s love to this week?
• Why is it important for Christians to love even when it’s hard?

Application:

This week, look for ways to reflect God’s love—especially to those who are hard to love or who could use the practical love and light of Jesus this Christmas season. Talk about one act of love you can do for someone in need this week.

Prayer:


“Father, thank You for showing Your love for us through your Son Jesus. Help us to live in light of your love and to love others the way You have loved us. May Your love shine through our lives. Amen.”

Got questions? We'd love to answer them!
Please contact the Office - office@centralcommunity.ca

THE SHEPHERDS' CANDLE
_{THE LIGHT OF JOY}

Theme:

Joy in the Good News

Scripture Reading:

• Luke 2:8–14 | The angels announce good news to the shepherds.
  
• Isaiah 40:9–11 | Good news of God’s coming to shepherd His people.
  
• Further Reading | Jesus is the Good Shepherd who lays down His life for His sheep: Psalm 23; John 10:11–18; Hebrews 13:20-21; 1 Peter 2:24-25.

Devotional

The shepherds were ordinary people doing ordinary work when God’s glory burst into the night sky. The angel’s message brought good news of great joy for all people: the Saviour had been born! The shepherds ran to see the Child, and after seeing Him, they couldn’t help but tell others.

In the ancient world shepherds were viewed as uneducated, untrustworthy, unclean, social outsiders. That God chose the humble shepherds to be the first to hear the news reminds us that the gospel is for everyone! Deep, eternal joy isn’t found in things or success—it’s found in knowing Jesus, the Good Shepherd who knows us, loves us, and gave His life for us.
When the shepherds saw baby Jesus, they praised God and told everyone what they had seen. God’s love is too great to keep to ourselves. The more we experience His love, the more we are moved to show it to others—in kindness, forgiveness, and grace.

Reflection Questions:

• What brings you joy about knowing Jesus personally?
• How can you share joy with others this week?
• What does it mean that Jesus knows you by name, like a shepherd knows his sheep?

Application:

Joy grows when we share the good news. This week, find ways to bring joy to others—write a note, share an encouragement, or tell someone about Jesus’ love. Let your joy in Christ shine.

Prayer:


“Lord Jesus, thank You for being our Good Shepherd. Fill our hearts with joy that comes from knowing You. Help us share Your love and good news with others. Amen.”

Got questions? We'd love to answer them!
Please contact the Office - office@centralcommunity.ca

THE BETHLEHEM CANDLE
_{THE LIGHT OF PREPARATION}

Theme:

Peace in God's Plan

Scripture Reading:

• Luke 2:1–7 | Jesus is born in Bethlehem.
• Micah 5:2–5a | From Bethlehem will come a Saviour to lead God’s people.
• Further Reading | The birth in Bethlehem set the table for the humble, servant-hearted, self-sacrificing ministry of Jesus: Matthew 20:28, 23:11-12; John 13:3-5, 15:13; Galatians 6:2; Philippians 2:5–8.

Devotional

God chose an unlikely place for the Saviour’s birth—Bethlehem, a small and humble town. It was not grand or powerful, but it was where God’s plan unfolded perfectly. The journey to Bethlehem reminds us that God often works through simple, quiet, and even difficult circumstances to bring about His purposes.

In Bethlehem, the Prince of Peace was born into a world of conflict and need. God was preparing the way for peace—not through power, but through humility. Jesus came as one of us, born in a manger, to bring us peace with God.

Reflection Questions:

• Why is it significant that the birth of Christ in the little town of Bethlehem both connects to Kingship and humility?
• What does it mean that Jesus brought peace through humility?
• How can you make room for Jesus in your hearts and home this week?
• When have you seen God working through something seemingly inconsequential or unexpected?

Application:

Sometimes God’s plans don’t look the way we expect, but they are always good. Think about how you can prepare your heart for Jesus—by slowing down, serving others, and trusting God’s wisdom in every detail.

Prayer:


“Lord, thank You that You work through humble places and quiet moments. Help us to prepare our hearts for You. Bring Your peace into our home and our world. Amen.”

Got questions? We'd love to answer them!
Please contact the Office - office@centralcommunity.ca

THE PROPHECY CANDLE
_{THE LIGHT OF PROMISE}

Theme:

Hope Fulfilled in Christ

Scripture Reading:

• Luke 1:26–33 | The angel Gabriel announces Jesus’ birth to Mary.
• Isaiah 9:2, 6–7 | The people walking in darkness have seen a great light.
• Further Reading | Prophecies of the birth of Christ that were fulfilled: Genesis 12:3 (Acts 2:25-26); Genesis 17:19 (Rom. 9:7); Genesis 28:14 (Lk. 3:34); 2 Samuel 7:12-13 (Matt. 1:1); Isaiah 7:14 (Lk. 1:35); Hosea 11:1 (Matt. 2:14-15); Micah 5:2 (Matt. 2:4-6).

Devotional

Long before Jesus was born, God promised to send a Saviour. Through the prophets, He spoke of a coming King who would bring light to a dark world. For centuries, God’s people waited and hoped. Even when they couldn’t see how His promises would come true, God was faithful.

When Gabriel appeared to Mary, the light of God’s promise broke through. The time had come! Every prophecy pointed to Jesus—the One who would save His people and rule with justice and peace. The same God who kept His promises then keeps His promises today.

Reflection Questions:

• What is one promise of God that gives you hope when life feels uncertain?
• Why can we trust God even when we don’t understand His timing?
• How might you encourage someone this week who feels like they are waiting in the dark?

Application:

When life feels uncertain or dark, we can hold onto the promises of God. He is faithful to His Word. Take time to name some of God’s promises in Scripture and thank Him for keeping them in Jesus.

Prayer:


“Lord, thank You for keeping Your promises. Thank You for sending Jesus, the Light of the world. Help us to trust You even when we can’t see what You’re doing. Amen.”

Got questions? We'd love to answer them!
Please contact the Office - office@centralcommunity.ca

Instead of starting our monthly Elders meeting with the customary intercessory prayer for the church and individual needs within the church, this time we met as elders with the pastoral team over dinner prior to the meeting. It was a great time of sharing as well as reciprocal prayer by and for the pastors and elders. This shared dinner is scheduled twice a year. Once in the spring and once in the fall.

The meeting itself started with a reflection on the activities that took place since the previous meeting in October. The now completed sermon series “Ordinary Path to Extraordinary Grace” was formational for many people, either helping them to get into the Word in the 90 Day New Testament Reading Plan, leading to a desire to be baptized, or result in the formation of discipleship groups. Another highlight was the “Equipping for Spiritual Warfare” seminar, presented by Dr. Breshears. The large attendance of this event indicates a desire to learn and grow in personal faith in a world that in many ways feels hostile and threatening. As elders, like all believers, we are often confronted with the biblical truth that we “do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (Eph 6:12). But as believers we can take comfort in the words of Col 1:13-14: “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”. Satan no longer has authority over those who belong to the Kingdom of God.

The first two courses offered by the School of Ministry, led by Dr. Jorge Salazar, were completed in early November. The interest in these classes was great. The classes were attended by around 150 people from within Central as well as from outside of our own church community. As Elders we are deeply grateful for this opportunity to “equip the saints....” (Eph 4:12). Registration for two new classes offered in early 2026 is now open. The subjects offered by these classes are “Caring for your Community and Sharing your Hope” and “Through the Eyes of Jesus: The Old Testament Explained”. Both highly recommended.

We are sharing the excitement of 20 Central youth who, accompanied by 5 leaders, will be going on a mission trip to the Children’s Haven in Mexico in March 2026, God willing. Central has a longstanding partnership with Children’s Haven and aims to send a youth mission team once every other year. Some fundraising activities organized by the youth can be expected soon.

We look forward with deep gratitude to 22 baptisms on Sunday December 7. Again, it is humbling to witness the work of Lord among us. How he is opening hearts to receive the Word and accept Jesus as their Savior and Lord. These 22 candidates have expressed their desire to publicly declare their surrender to Jesus and to commit to his Lordship in obedience. We recognize that this is not our work. Jesus himself spoke “I will build my Church”. Throughout the centuries he has been faithful, not only to preserve, but also to grow his church.

And Central is indeed growing. This rapid growth does present its challenges. Both with respect to the capacity of our facilities, especially at the Chilliwack Campus, as well as the strain on the annual budget. Both of these items took up a considerable amount of time at the meeting. As elders we are prayerfully struggling with the need to expand our facilities to accommodate the growth, while also remaining financially responsible and be faithful stewards of the funds received through the generosity of all those who contribute on a regular basis. Each year, around this time in the fall, there are some concerns whether we will be able to meet our budgetary responsibilities, yet each year we stand in awe how the Lord provides by year end. That said however, it would be wonderful if those who are able to do so, could help alleviate this cash-flow crunch in the fall by somewhat adjusting the timing of their giving. While the generous giving pattern in December usually balances the annual budget, it often creates the need to dip into the line of credit earlier in the fall, to meet the monthly commitments. We understand this may not be an option for everyone. Yet we invite all to take this prayerfully into consideration for next year.

As we reviewed the 2026 budget, we also feel our dependency on God. “The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD determines his steps” (Prov 16:9). We are very grateful for the many hours spent by the administrative team and Central’s Stewardship Team preparing and reviewing the very detailed 2026 Budget. Looking at the numbers, we are deeply aware of our need of God’s favour. We ask for your prayers that we may receive the wisdom also in these matters.

A last item to mention is the establishment of Promontory Community Church (formerly the Promontory Campus). Final administrative adjustments are currently being made to have PCC function as a fully independent church from January 1, 2025 onward. We are aware that, while we will operate as independent churches from then on, we still are united in one body, the Church of Jesus Christ. We are excited to witness this church functioning as a healthy, Word based, Christ centered church, continuing with the common Mission of making disciples of Jesus Christ.

Jim Devisser
- On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

Finance Update

In the regular course of their meeting the elders discussed the finances of the church. Looking at the year to date report to the end of October, It was noted that we are following our usual annual pattern of income to expenses. Overall donations are up 9% over the previous year, and while most budgetary items well within budget, or below, our overall expenses leave us short $337,345 to date. This shortfall includes several significant expenses including the start of a School of Ministry with over 150 students, and the Care and Counselling program with 27 people being trained to counsel. It also includes practical costs related to replacing a roof, air conditioning unit, and modifications to the Chilliwack sanctuary to accommodate growth with the addition of 70 chairs.

The pastoral and ministry leaders submitted their budget request for 2026, and the Stewardship Team evaluated the draft for presentation to the elders. The elders reviewed the draft, spoke into the submissions, and will revisit the budget at their December meeting. Traditionally, a full 1/3 of Central’s donations are received in the last two months of the year. If this pattern holds true we anticipate reaching our budget target of $3,121,008. Please prayerfully consider your part in this goal.

ELDER'S PRAYER

As one of the newest members to the elder team, it is my privilege to provide the Elder's update for this month. This past Tuesday, we met as an elder team and started our meeting on our knees in prayer. We began by Ernie reading a short except from "Center Church" by Timothy Keller and then individual elders praying over three basic traits, or postures, of frontline prayer. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=132 Tue, 21 Oct 2025 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/132/EldersUpdateOctober2025

As one of the newest members to the elder team, it is my privilege to provide the Elder’s update for this month.

This past Tuesday, we met as an elder team and started our meeting on our knees in prayer.  We began by Ernie reading a short except from “Center Church” by Timothy Keller and then individual elders praying over three basic traits, or postures, of frontline prayer:

1. A request for grace to confess sins and to humble ourselves;
2. A compassion and zeal for the flourishing of the church and the reaching of the lost;
3. A yearning to know God to see his face, to get a glimpse of his glory.  We continued collectively praying for our church, including for individuals and couples within our congregation.

We spent some time discussing a podcast, previously sent to us, on how “The Church is Essential for Discipleship” (featuring Jen Wilkin, JT English, and Kyle Worley | YouTube).  The focus was on the importance of discipleship training and retelling the church’s foundational story to the next generation.  This key topic on discipleship was a reoccurring theme throughout our meeting.

We received updates and discussed the progress of several of Central’s recent efforts in discipleship training or opportunities.  Central’s School of Ministry initiated this fall with two courses have been well attended and very fruitful with other courses planned in 2026: The courses “Love in Action” (Caring for Your Community and Sharing Your Hope) starts on January 12th, 2026 and “Through the Eyes of Jesus” (The Old Testament Explained) starts on January 15th, 2026 (please refer to Central’s website School of Ministry | Winter Courses 2026 for further detail).  As well, the Ministry of Care and Counselling, Equipped to Counsel training is progressing well and is almost a couple of months into their 8-month curriculum.  A key goal of this Counselling training is to equip both leaders and congregants for personal discipleship and intentional helping relationships that point people to Jesus.  In addition, Central will the BC host site for a two-day conference entitled “Canadian Biblical Counselling Coalition Conference”, March 20 and 21, 2026, at the Chilliwack Campus (with further details forthcoming).

Regarding staffing, we are grateful that Central is onboarding Sharalee Voth in a new part-time media position which will help bolster our visual storytelling through video, photography, and social media, and support discipleship, our ministries, and outreach across all campus.  As well, we spent some time discussing a new church policy on Designated Giving Policy and discussing the topic of pursuing Excellence in Performance Reviews.

In November Prof. Gerry Breshears will be a guest speaker for a 1-day seminar on Spiritual Warfare at the Chilliwack Campus on Saturday, Nov 15th and then he will be doing three services in Chilliwack on Nov 16th. Ken Dyck, creator of Freedom Session, will be preaching that Sunday in Lake Errock and Agassiz.

In terms of outreach, the elders heard of and supported the plan for a Youth Mexico missions trip (Spring 2026) to serve in Reynosa, Mexico at Children’s Haven.  As well, the elder’s received a briefing and supported the church having a Compassion Canada Sunday planned at the Chilliwack Campus in January 2026 (Compassion is one of our ministry partnerships and we seek to create child sponsorship opportunities every 3 years for our congregation).  This is to be followed with a subsequent one-day conference on foster/adoption opportunities with details to follow for both.

Towards the end of our meeting, we had the blessing of reviewing a long list of candidates for Baptism and Ministry Partnership across all the campuses.  The elders are excited to review candidates’ applications and meeting with them in November in preparation for the baptisms taking place on Sunday, December 7th.

On a final note, since October is Pastor Appreciation month, we thank those that have reached out to our staff with prayer, words of support, baked goods (fatten them up physically and spiritually) and to show your appreciation for the pastors, directors, and staff across all our campus. We look forward to continuing to serve you and are excited to see how God moves His Kingdom forward in the Eastern Fraser Valley and beyond.

 

Leonard Feldes
- On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

---

Finance Update

As we look back over the first nine months of 2025, we are deeply encouraged by God’s faithfulness and by the generosity of His people here at Central. Through September, total giving reached $1,892,815, representing a 7% increase over last year. This steady growth is a clear sign that our church family continues to respond with faith and commitment to the mission God has given us.

While overall revenue remains consistent with 2024 (which included $140,994 from the Let There Be Light campaign), we also invested significantly this year in expanding ministry capacity and improving our facilities. Key projects included replacing a section of the Chilliwack roof, renovating for additional seating, installing air conditioning at Harrison, and purchasing equipment to assist with Promontory’s launch. These practical upgrades—along with the exciting addition of our School of Ministry—have contributed to an overall year-to-date shortfall of $311,121.

This number reflects our historic giving pattern and remains within budget expectations. We are confident that, as in previous years, the final quarter will see strong giving as our church family rallies together. Expenses remain below budget parameters and are being monitored carefully.

There is much to celebrate beyond the numbers! Our Promontory campus has now received official society status and is in the process of applying for charitable standing. Central continues to provide practical and financial support as they establish themselves as a thriving, gospel-centered church in their community. The Elders have also approved a new Designated Giving Policy and launched a Youth Mexico Mission fund in preparation for our students’ mission trip this coming March.

Looking ahead, the 2026 budgeting process is already underway. The Stewardship Team will review the preliminary budget in November, with the Elders expected to receive a first draft at their next meeting.

As we enter the final quarter of 2025, we invite you to prayerfully consider your role in supporting the ministry of Central. Every gift fuels life-changing ministry across Chilliwack, Agassiz, Harrison, Lake Errock, and beyond. Together, we are]]> Tonight, we delved into the heart of our Christian mission - the Great Commission. This powerful mandate from Jesus isn't just a suggestion, but a call to action for every believer. We explored the four imperatives: go, make disciples, baptize, and teach. The Great Commission reminds us that our faith isn't meant to be passive; it's a dynamic journey of growth and outreach. As we reflected on Jesus' words in Matthew 28:18-20, we were challenged to consider how we're living out this calling in our daily lives. Are we actively seeking to share the gospel, or have we become comfortable in our faith? The imagery of passing through waters of judgment, like Noah and the Israelites, beautifully illustrates our baptism - a powerful symbol of our new life in Christ. This message urges us to step out in faith, to be intentional in our discipleship, and to remember that as we go, Christ is with us always. How can we align our lives more closely with this mission, allowing the transformative power https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=131 Fri, 26 Sep 2025 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/131/ThereforeGo

In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it's easy to lose sight of our true purpose as Christians. We may attend church, read our Bibles, and pray regularly, but are we truly living out the mission that Jesus gave us? 

Click the link below to listen to the 'Therefore Go' message.

Listen

The Great Commission, found in Matthew 28:18-20, is not a mere suggestion or a grand idea - it's a mandate from the King of Kings himself.

¹⁸ And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. ¹⁹ Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in^[a] the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, ²⁰ teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”

These words, spoken by Jesus just before his ascension, carry immense weight and significance. They outline our mission as believers and provide a roadmap for how we can participate in bringing God's kingdom to earth. But what does this look like in practice?

The Great Commission can be broken down into four key imperatives: go, make disciples, baptize, and teach. Each of these elements is crucial to fulfilling our calling as Christians.

First, we must be willing to "go." This requires a spirit of adventure, boldness, and willingness to step out of our comfort zones. It's not about being taken hostage or forced into action, but rather choosing to move forward in faith.

Next, we are called to "make disciples." This means calling people to commit to and submit to Jesus as Lord of their lives. It's an intentional process of walking alongside others, helping them grow in their faith and understanding of who God is.

The third imperative is to "baptize." Baptism is a beautiful outward sign of an inward transformation. It symbolizes our identification with Christ's death and resurrection, and our commitment to living a new life in Him.

Finally, we are instructed to "teach" others to obey all that Jesus has commanded. This involves not just imparting knowledge, but helping others apply God's truth to their lives in practical ways.

As we consider these imperatives, it's important to remember that we're not left to accomplish this mission on our own. Jesus promises, "And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age." This assurance of His presence should give us courage and confidence as we step out in faith.

The Great Commission is intimately connected to the Lord's Prayer, particularly the phrase "Your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven." When we pray these words, we're asking for Christ's reign to be evident in the hearts and lives of all believers. We're praying that we would reflect Christ and magnify Him through our actions and words.

Fulfilling the Great Commission requires us to be doers of the word, not just hearers. James 1:22-25 reminds us of the importance of putting our faith into action:

²² But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. ²³ For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. ²⁴ For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. ²⁵ But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing.

Living out the Great Commission means actively participating in bringing light to darkness. It means moving forward into the watching and waiting world, empowered by the Holy Spirit, with hearts and minds set on things above and an undefeatable eternal perspective.

This calling is not just for a select few - it's for all believers, regardless of age, gender, or life stage. We are all called to be Christ's ambassadors, His hands and feet on earth. This might look different for each of us, but the goal remains the same: to help others grow in the knowledge and love of the Lord and to live accordingly.

So how can we practically live out the Great Commission in our daily lives? Here are a few suggestions:

1. Engage in Bible study: Deepen your understanding of God's word so you can effectively share it with others.

2. Pursue mentorship and discipleship relationships: Both as a mentor and a mentee, these relationships can foster spiritual growth and maturity.

3. Get involved in mission and service: Look for opportunities to serve in your local community and support global missions.

4. Pray fervently: Cover all your efforts in prayer, asking God to guide you and open doors for ministry.

5. Foster fellowship: As you pursue the Great Commission, genuine fellowship with other believers will naturally flow.

Remember, living out the Great Commission doesn't have to be overwhelming. It's often in the small, everyday moments that we have the greatest impact. A kind word to a neighbor, a listening ear for a struggling friend, or a heartfelt prayer for a coworker - these are all ways we can share God's love and point others to Christ.

As we seek to fulfill the Great Commission, let's keep our eyes fixed on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith. He is the one who left His throne in heaven to come to earth for our redemption. He is the light that shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.

In a world that can often feel dark and chaotic, we have the incredible privilege of being bearers of light and hope. We serve a God who is humble enough to become fully human while remaining fully God, who became the perfect and ultimate sacrifice for our sins. This is the message we carry - a message of love, redemption, and hope.

So let us go forth with boldness, making disciples, baptizing, and teaching, knowing that our God is with us always, even to the end of the age. May we be a generation that takes the Great Commission seriously, ushering in God's kingdom and reflecting His love to a world in desperate need of hope.

---

Got questions? We'd love to answer them!
Please contact Cecily Dickey | Women's Ministry Director - cecily@centralcommunity.ca

]]> The Elders met once again this past Tuesday, and as we do with every meeting we began on our knees in prayer for our church. We brought before the Lord many items of praise and the many burdens that people in our congregation carry. Congregation members are welcomed and encouraged to come so that we can pray with and for them as well. We also welcomed two new elders, Travis and Leonard, who were commissioned this summer. Please lift these two men in prayer as they serve Central in this new capacity. God has provided us with tremendous leaders and we praise Him for that! https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=130 Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/130/EldersUpdateSeptember2025

The Elders met once again this past Tuesday, and as we do with every meeting we began on our knees in prayer for our church. We brought before the Lord many items of praise and the many burdens that people in our congregation carry. Congregation members are welcomed and encouraged to come so that we can pray with and for them as well. We also welcomed two new elders, Travis and Leonard, who were commissioned this summer. Please lift these two men in prayer as they serve Central in this new capacity. God has provided us with tremendous leaders and we praise Him for that!

This summer was full of ministry as we had kids camps throughout our campuses. We celebrated as a church together as 33 people were baptized at Harrison Lake. I was amazed at how many people from Central came to support and celebrate with those getting baptized! We also had 13 individuals become ministry partners in addition to those getting baptized. The elders also had a retreat day together at the end of summer for a time of prayer and connection as we head into the new ministry year. We kicked off the new ministry year with the start of the School of Ministry, where over 150 individuals have registered. We also have our Equipped to Counsel course starting up with 27 individuals participating. We praise God! We also saw the Promontory Campus move to autonomy and become Promontory Community Church as of September 1. We celebrate what God has been doing through Promontory and pray with them as they seek to make disciples who know, live, and share the good news of Jesus.

We spent some time at the beginning of our meeting reviewing an article on the topic of Youth and Church Membership. At Central, we believe that when we bring people forward for baptism, that they also become a part of the church body as ministry partners, even the youth of our church (Youth and Church Membership – Or, Stop Baptizing Children into the Ether by Alex Duke).

As our church continues to grow, we continue to look for ways to make space on Sunday mornings. This summer we completed a small renovation of the main sanctuary which allowed us to add 70 more seats. We thank all those involved in completing the work in such a short amount of time. It is such a blessing to see those in the congregation using their skills and talents for the glory of God. At our kickoff Sunday, we saw nearly 1,600 people attend services throughout our campuses with nearly 1300 attending the three services at the Chilliwack Campus alone. We praise God for drawing people to hear the gospel.  This also creates challenges as we are limited in the space on a Sunday morning, even with the small renovations done over the summer. We continue to seek God’s wisdom on what our next steps are as we continue to grow. Please be in prayer with us as we seek God’s direction.

We look forward to continue to serve you as elders and are excited about what God has for us this coming ministry year. 

Walt Schroeder
- On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

---

Finance Update

As a part of their regular practice, the Elders reviewed the finances of the church receiving a report to the end of August. This summer several essential projects were completed that had an impact on the finances. These projects included retooling the Chilliwack sanctuary to add additional seats, completing the Let There Be Light project, replacing the roof on one of our buildings, and providing equipment for Promontory church, the School Ministry, and our Care and Counselling ministry. These projects resulted in a $90,000 investment in capital items and infrastructure and were a one-time necessary expense.

It was noted that giving for the year to date (YTD) to end end of August, was up 8% over the previous year at $1,666,196. Once again, Central experienced a summer where our expenses outpaced our income. While ministry expenditure are well within or below budget parameters, Central currently has YTD shortfall of $293,012. This follows our historical financial trends, and despite the additional expenses note above, is only marginally higher than the same period last year.

This September Promontory Community Church became independent. While final details related to society status, and other administrative nuances are being worked out, they are effectively their own entity. This has implications for our budget with their income and expenses being tracked separately as of September 2025. The Elders anticipate the next finance report will look slightly different as we take into consideration this shift to independence.

Our benevolent fund continues to be supported well with over $84,000 being invested into the lives of people and providing for practical needs. One significant benevolent endeavour is the dinner provided every Monday evening at Seabird Island. This project is currently funded through a gracious legacy donation to benevolent and is amazing in terms of its Gospel effectiveness. Each week between 50-70 people receive a wholesome meal in the context of community. Another key benevolent endeavour is our commitment to the Food Bank run out of our Lake Errock campus. This too is proving effective to provide for practical needs, reaching into the community, and for the Gospel.

The Elders encourage you to consider your part in supporting the mission and vision of the church to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley. Traditionally, the last quarter of the year is our strongest in terms of donations to the church. It is our hope, in light of starting two new ministries, and with Promontory’s departure, to meet or exceed our budget. Pray with the Elders seeking God’s provision to this end.

---

ELDER'S PRAYER

We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

Tuesday, October 21 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

Request Prayer

---

Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

]]> This past Tuesday, we once again met as Elders, starting as we usually do on our knees in a time of prayer for our church. We brought before the Lord many items of praise and the many burdens that people in our congregation are carrying. We started our meeting by reviewing a chapter on church government in the book Systematic Theology (Wayne Grudem) and the article A Job Description for Lay Elders (9Marks). We then had a robust discussion on what it means to lead as a plurality of elders. It is beautiful to learn and grow together in grace as church leaders, and we are thankful for the unity and respect we have for one another as elders. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=129 Tue, 17 Jun 2025 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/129/EldersUpdateJune2025

This past Tuesday, we once again met as Elders, starting as we usually do on our knees in a time of prayer for our church. We brought before the Lord many items of praise and the many burdens that people in our congregation are carrying. We started our meeting by reviewing a chapter on church government in the book Systematic Theology (Wayne Grudem) and the article A Job Description for Lay Elders (9Marks). We then had a robust discussion on what it means to lead as a plurality of elders. It is beautiful to learn and grow together in grace as church leaders, and we are thankful for the unity and respect we have for one another as elders.

As we head into summer, many exciting things are happening throughout. Youth will be carrying on with some intentional events, and each of our campuses will also be a week of summer day camps for kids, where our prayer is for children from the community who do not know Jesus, to join our kids, come have fun, learn about Him, and be cared for well by our church community. We are extremely grateful for all those who have signed up to volunteer for that and all the other ministries, like Central Kids, which carries on every Sunday throughout the summer. Our prayer is that this summer staff can have meaningful holidays and times of rest as we gear up for another busy ministry season in the fall.

This fall, Dr. Salazar will be offering two classes. One called “Why The Bible?” and the other “Giants of the Faith”. These can be taken for college but will also be offered very reasonably for those in our congregation and community who would love to spend more time in the Word, deepening their faith with good teaching. Along with regular men’s and women’s ministries, we will also host Freedom Session again, which will be held at Sardis Fellowship Baptist Church. Last year, we had close to 50 participants graduate, and we would invite anyone who feels God prompting them to join us on that healing and discipleship journey.

Another wonderful blessing is all the people who are becoming ministry partners and getting baptized this summer at Harrison Lake. We could have over 30 people being baptized on August 28. We elders each take a handful of people and meet with everyone who is becoming a ministry partner and getting baptized. It is one of the highlights of being an elder to hear the stories of faith from those in our congregation, taking that next step in their walk with God.

As our church continues to grow in many different ways, we are very pressed for space on Sunday mornings. We are planning to do a small renovation of the main sanctuary to add another row of chairs in the front, as well as a few along the sides where the stairs are. This should happen in the next month or so, when attendance is typically down a bit with people being gone on summer holidays. We are looking to add seats in the most economical way possible and are blessed with people helping in very practical ways in this little renovation project.

As this is my last elder update as Alf Wiebe and I are stepping aside as elders, I would like to take the opportunity to thank those who pray for us as elders, and for the grace that many have given to me. I have never felt qualified or worthy of the role, but God has been gracious, and I felt He has used the role to build my character healthily. Serving alongside Pastor Matt, Ron, and all the other elders has been an honour. My prayer is that we can continue as a church to fulfil our vision of reaching the entire Eastern Fraser Valley with the gospel.

 

Gary Baars
- On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

---

Finance Update

The elders celebrate God’s faithfulness through his people. Donations to the mission of the church continue to faithfully provided by Central as a whole with year to date giving slightly ahead of the year to date giving of the previous year. Across the campuses we have received $1,021,651 in donations. These funds are invested in our various endeavours to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley including two more recent ministry initiatives, our Care and Counselling ministry, and the recently commissioned School of Ministry slated to start this Fall. Overall revenue is lower that the previous year due in large part to our Let There Be Light campaign last year. It was noted that overall expenses are well under budget parameters with the exception of an investment in technology to support these two burgeoning ministries and provide new equipment for the Promontory campus that will soon become autonomous. Maintenance and repair across the campuses continues to prove challenging to manage with the Slesse room in Chilliwack requiring a new roof after 25+ years of use. The overall shortfall of income to expenses to the end of May sits at $183,509 slightly higher that the previous month. 

Summer traditionally tends to be a lean season in terms of consistent giving to the mission of the church even as regular ministry continues and events like  Day Camp and youth missions to Camp Bob continue. The elders encourage the congregation to consider how they might continue their support of our determination to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley throughout the summer months. Over the summer we anticipate some renovations to the Chilliwack sanctuary as we increase seating capacity. While costs will be kept to a minimum, the elders have determined that this is an import practical investment in response to our continued growth and space limitations. Recently, Central experienced a fire set by an arsonist that was caught in the beginning stages. Even so, smoke and equipment damage will require us to call on our insurance to repair and replace equipment. We are grateful that the fire did not spread significantly and thankful for the Chilliwack Fire Department who attended and put it out quickly. The elders ask that you join them in prayer asking God to provide for the many and varied ministries Central embraces as we follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.

---

ELDER'S PRAYER

We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

Tuesday, September 16 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

Request Prayer

---

Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

]]> This month's meeting began with our bi-annual pastor-elder dinner. I always look forward to this particular gathering-and not just because of the meal!-because it is a great time of fellowship with all the fantastic people that lead our church so faithfully and well! It is an opportunity for elders and pastors to get together, break bread, chat candidly about life and ministry, and finally pray for our pastors. We are so blessed to have such genuine, faithful, hardworking pastors that care and lead our church community. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=128 Tue, 20 May 2025 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/128/EldersUpdateMay2025

This month’s meeting began with our bi-annual pastor-elder dinner. I always look forward to this particular gathering—and not just because of the meal!—because it is a great time of fellowship with all the fantastic people that lead our church so faithfully and well! It is an opportunity for elders and pastors to get together, break bread, chat candidly about life and ministry, and finally pray for our pastors. We are so blessed to have such genuine, faithful, hardworking pastors that care and lead our church community.

As our dinner closed and we began the business part of the meeting, the elders were joined by our new elder candidates. This was time designated for the elder candidates to be introduced to the elders and for the candidates to ask questions and gain clarity about eldership. While a number of men were nominated, some of those nominated aren’t ministry partners and others did not sense that now was a time to proceed with the discernment process, and therefore we have three amazing candidates continuing through the mutual discernment process. We ask that you would lift them up in prayer as we discern their calling to take up the mantle of eldership. Again, we are so blessed that God raises up such godly men from amongst us to lead and shepherd well.

We are grateful that the Lord provides new elders as we have several current elders moving on this year. Four of us (Tyler, Eddy, Rich, and myself) will be moving on to lead Promontory as it becomes autonomous this fall, as well as Elders Gary Baars and Alf Wiebe will be stepping off as their terms are up. We thank them for their tireless service, and we ask that you would lift them up in prayer as they continue to serve our church and community in different capacities.

One of our values here at Central is “Equipped for Ministry.” One of the ways we have done this is through our Ministry Internship Program. This program has included theological training and practical ministry experience and has been very successful over the past few years. We now have the opportunity to take the next step of building robust discipleship by launching a School of Ministry. We have hired Dr. Jorge Salazar to serve as the director with classes launching on Monday and Thursday evenings this Fall. Again we ask for prayer both for Jorge and this program as we seek to further educate and equip believers for ministry.

Finally, we discussed the progress on Promontory’s move to autonomy. Promontory is on track to become autonomous this fall as Promontory Community Church. We have been able to find the needed staff and begun a youth program that is off to a great start. This August, Promontory will begin its own sermon series leading up to a September launch. Please pray as we embark on this journey. Central’s goal has always been to plant healthy churches across the eastern Fraser Valley and this is part of the culmination of that work. We are forever grateful for the support and partnership we have with Central!

This is my last elder update as a Central Elder before I move on to Promontory. Central has been such an amazing place for me to grow and learn. I am excited for the next chapter, both for Promontory and for Central, and ultimately for the Kingdom of God moving forward in the Fraser Valley!

 

Justin Vugteveen
- On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

---

Finance Update

As is our practice, the elders received a year to date report indicating Central’s financial positions as related to income and expenses. The Central budget is geared towards ensuring that our vision of seeing the entire easter Fraser Valley transformed by the Gospel is resourced accordingly. It includes income and expenses for all five campuses. While giving is received in varying degrees throughout the year, expenses tend to be more constant and measured. Year to date giving is slightly ahead of the same period last year at $800,457 to the end of April. Expenses for the same period are well within budget parameters and include final payments for the final portion of our Let There Be Light project (sanctuary lighting), a downpayment on roof repairs required this summer, and miscellaneous expenses related to winter operations. These extraordinary expenses total approximately $88,000 and make up a significant part of our year to date shortfall of $148,685.

As we head into the summer months the elders encourage the congregation to consider how you might support the ministry of the church during what is traditionally a more lean season in terms of giving. Signing up for our automated giving option is one way of supporting the church in a practical way. Ministry plans continue, especially as we embark on two new ministry initiatives. Our Care and Counselling ministry, and the School of Ministry set to begin this Fall are in the process of establishing plans for effective long-term ministry. Plans for releasing the Promontory Campus as an autonomous church continue to press ahead and they have financial implications for Central, both in terms of providing support to the congregation as they launch, and as related to the Central budget as a whole. Please join the elders in praying for wisdom to navigate the many ministry facets and opportunities that make up Central and our corporate vision.

---

ELDER'S PRAYER

We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

Tuesday, June 17 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

Request Prayer

---

Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

]]> Happy Easter everyone! As I write this, we are in the week prior to Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday. The Easter weekend, a time to celebrate the Good News, was certainly one topic of prayer as the Elders met for our monthly time together. We long to see many people impacted by the Holy Spirit and transformed this Easter across the many Christian churches in Chilliwack and the Eastern Fraser Valley. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=127 Tue, 15 Apr 2025 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/127/EldersUpdateApril2025

Happy Easter everyone! As I write this, we are in the week prior to Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday.  The Easter weekend, a time to celebrate the Good News, was certainly one topic of prayer as the Elders met for our monthly time together.  We long to see many people impacted by the Holy Spirit and transformed this Easter across the many Christian churches in Chilliwack and the Eastern Fraser Valley.

As is our normal practice, we enjoyed the first 45 minutes of the meeting praying, including for individuals within our congregation. If you desire prayer, be sure to engage with a wonderful prayer volunteer at the end of each Sunday service across all campuses or submit a prayer request on our website.

We are pleased to announce that Cecily Dickey has chosen to fulfil the role of Women’s Director here at Central. Cecily and family have been long-time active members of our Agassiz Campus. She will step down as Agassiz Worship Coordinator as she engages this new role. We look forward to the equipping work that Cecily will oversee.  Please drop a word of encouragement to Cecily in the coming weeks.

Be sure to mark your calendar for the upcoming Men’s and Women’s Summits happening soon. Saturday, May 3 for the ladies and May 24 for the guys. Both events will take place at our Harrison Campus.

The elders engaged in a lengthy conversation regarding future development of the Chilliwack Campus. God continues to bless us with growing numbers of people seeking Him on Sundays.  We discussed many different options the Development Team researched for us. In the short term, we are exploring minor renovations to the sanctuary that would accommodate more seating. The longer term conversation continues.

Equipping people to understand and share the good news of Jesus is something we value here at Central. The past four years we have engaged congregants with a Ministry Internship Program, which included a class component held one day per week.  With the demand for quality, orthodox, Christian education being high, we are exploring what an expanded education program could look like this coming fall. This will be an exciting opportunity to deepen our understanding of the Christian faith within a structured classroom environment that will be available to all of us.

As previously discussed, we intend to launch the Promontory Campus as an independent church. Pastor Jonathan briefed us on where the Promontory Community Church launch planning stands. We engaged in questions regarding congregation, facility, finances and staffing needs.  Presently the Promontory Campus planning team is working full steam ahead to launch this healthy, independent church in September, 2025.

We are pleased to have Gabriela Carter heading up our new counselling initiative.  Not only will we be better equipped to help those in need of care but look forward to launching a biblical counselling training centre and biblical counselling centre.

With so many issues in the news and our society that seek to divide us, it is wonderful to hold to the truth that unites us. There is one God and one Gospel. Thank you for being part of what God is doing here at Central Community Church.  We cherish your prayers.

Ernie Charlton
- On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

---

Finance Update

The Elders received a year to date report regarding Central’s finances. Giving to the mission of the church continues to be strong with overall giving to the end of March up 7% from the previous year. The Elders received word that several capital projects will need to be addressed in the next few months. These include replacing a significant portion of the Chilliwack roof, and replacing the sound board for the Agassiz campus. Overall expenses are well within budget parameters with the exception of facility maintenance which includes a deposit for the upcoming roof repairs. Year to date expenses currently leave us with a deficit in the amount of $94,429. This amount is in keeping with our historic giving and expense trends. The elders encourage you to consider your part in ensuring Central meets its ongoing operational and ministry costs.

In keeping with our five year strategic plan the elders discussed the financial implications of launching a school of ministry. Given the opportunity to bolster our commitment to discipleship, the elders agreed to increase the budget for 2025 to accommodate the addition of this strategic initiative. The elders also discussed how Central can bless Promontory church as they move towards autonomy with the goal of providing for them in practical and financial ways. Other points of discussion included a report from the development team in response to a five year plan approved by the elders. Creative immediate solutions to provide more sanctuary, meeting, and ministry space, combined with more strategic long-term revisions should prove effective in ensure we continue to respond faithfully to the growth and opportunities God is providing.

Overall the elders are encouraged by the faithful investment of the congregation to ensure that we achieve our vision to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley with the Gospel. Giving in response to the grace of God is a faithful outworking of our worship. Thank you for participating in the work of God through Central.

---

ELDER'S PRAYER

We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

Tuesday, June 17 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

Request Prayer

---

Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

]]> Central's Elders met this past week to spend time in discussion around what many of you were able to get a glimpse of at the recent Annual General Meeting. As with all our meetings, we began in a time of prayer for our church, our ministry partners, our staff, and one another. We spent time praying for the those who are hurting, as well as celebrating the many good things that God is doing. As the AGM took place at the beginning of March, we spent some time debriefing how it went, any potential changes for next year, and making sure that any outstanding items and questions coming out it were being addressed. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=126 Tue, 18 Mar 2025 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/126/EldersUpdateMarch2025

Central’s Elders met this past week to spend time in discussion around what many of you were able to get a glimpse of at the recent Annual General Meeting. As with all our meetings, we began in a time of prayer for our church, our ministry partners, our staff, and one another. We spent time praying for the those who are hurting, as well as celebrating the many good things that God is doing. As the AGM took place at the beginning of March, we spent some time debriefing how it went, any potential changes for next year, and making sure that any outstanding items and questions coming out it were being addressed.

This month we also spent time discussing a chapter from Nine Marks of a Healthy Church related to Missions. A key missions focus of Central over the last decade has been reaching out and planting healthy campuses around the Fraser Valley, and we discussed what more could be done both in local mission as well what an increased role in overseas missions could look like. We look forward to continuing that discussion in future meetings and praying that God would continue to make us a sending church who go across the valley and to the nations.

Recently, an Ash Wednesday service was held at a number of Central campuses, marking the start of the season leading up to Easter. We were encouraged by the turnout which saw 150 people, plus another 150 youth, attending in Chilliwack, as well as 60 people north of the Fraser and another 50 up at Promontory. It’s exciting to see the engagement of the church across all the campuses as we continue pursuing our mission to reach the eastern Fraser Valley with the gospel. We’re also looking forward to the upcoming Easter Sunday, which in addition to being so important, will see 11 people baptized from 3 of the campuses. Please pray and consider who you will invite to join you for one of our Easter services.

While several ministries have been going through a transition stage recently, we were encouraged to discuss the upcoming Men’s and Women’s Summits that are planned for May. Please be in prayer for the church as we continue in our search for the Women’s Ministry Director role. There was exciting news about Central’s expanding Care and Counselling ministry as we seek to equip the saints to provide robust care in our church. This is comprised of 3 key areas:

• Equipping our lay and staff leaders with resources like the Counselling in Communities course.
• Biblical Counselling Training, a program with a goal to establish an internal Care Team (Central has become the first Association of Biblical Counselors training facility in Western Canada).
• The first steps towards developing an internal Biblical Counselling Center.

Please be in prayer for this as the details are worked out.

We want to thank everyone for praying throughout the Elder Discernment process and ask for continued prayer as the process continues. The discernment team is going to be meeting with candidates over the coming weeks and we are looking forward to what God may have in store as far as adding to this team of Godly men in the future.

 

Tyler Schulz
- On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

---

Finance Update

The elders received a preliminary YTD finance update that highlighted areas of giving compared to expenses. It was noted that giving to the mission of the church continues to be strong and is running about 7% higher than last year. Although overall giving numbers are lower when compared to last year, the marriage retreat, and youth Mexico mission accounted for $45,000 of this difference. Expenses are tracking well below budget allowances with no one ministry area exceeding their budget. Needed capital equipment, computers and production equipment in particular, increased our overall YTD expenses, but these are one-time capital costs.

The elders were made aware that a section of the Chilliwack roof requires replacing having exceeded its lifespan. This cost will be an added expense of approximately $50,000 with work to be completed when weather conditions allow. Current expenses to income leave us with a $93,000 shortfall year to date. This is in line with the same period last year.  It was noted that we have been able to put $50,000 into an operational reserve account and that cash flow continues to be manageable.The Elders are grateful for your continued faithfulness in contributing to the work God has called us to accomplish.

---

ELDER'S PRAYER

We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

Tuesday, April 15 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

Request Prayer

---

Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

]]> In October 2024, my life came to a screeching halt. After 20 years in youth ministry, I was asked to take a break. This wasn't a sabbatical or a time of refreshment-it was a forced pause, a moment where leadership had to step in and say: It's time for you to step away from ministry. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=125 Tue, 18 Mar 2025 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/125/ALessonOnBurnout

In October 2024, my life came to a screeching halt. After 20 years in youth ministry, I was asked to take a break. This wasn’t a sabbatical or a time of refreshment—it was a forced pause, a moment where leadership had to step in and say: It’s time for you to step away from ministry.

I want to be clear: this wasn’t the result of some hidden sin or moral failure. It wasn’t about misconduct or breaking trust. It was because I was a broken man trying to carry everything on my own. And I’ll be honest with you—I did it well for a lot of years, but your struggles have a funny way of catching up to you.

When the news hit, I cycled through a storm of emotions. First, I was salty—frustrated and defensive. Then, I went numb, unsure of what to do with myself. And beneath it all, I was afraid. Afraid of looking like a failure. After all, this is all I’ve ever known. Ministry has been my life’s work. If I wasn’t leading, then who was I? Just a broken guy who realized that life is way too hard.

We all know the truth: life is hard. Ministry is hard. The Bible never promises an easy road—quite the opposite. Consider these verses:

“We are hard-pressed on every side…”

^{2 Corinthians 4:8-9}

“You will face trials of many kinds…”

^{James 1:2-4}

These verses aren’t just poetic encouragements; they are raw reminders of reality. Life brings trials. Leadership carries weight. And if we’re honest, many of us are carrying far more than we should on our own.

Not only do we bear our own struggles—our past wounds, anxieties, traumas, and insecurities—but in ministry, we also carry the burdens of those we serve. Over the years, I’ve walked with students through everything under the sun: suicides, deaths, illnesses, broken homes, abuse, addiction, mental health crises, faith deconstruction—you name it, I’ve seen it. And while I was there for them, I never stopped to acknowledge my own wounds.

I grew up in a deeply dysfunctional home before being adopted. Before the age of five, I was bounced through 30 foster homes. Abuse and neglect were constants in my early life, and in response, I became a relentless people-pleaser—desperate to be accepted, valued, and needed. I learned to hustle for my worth, and that same pattern followed me into ministry. I poured myself out for others but never allowed myself to be cared for because I was afraid to reveal my cards. What would people think of me?

The weight of leadership, the expectation to always be available, the constant outpouring—it all takes a toll. For years, I prided myself on my ability to push through. Late nights, early mornings, hard conversations, big events, deep heartbreak—it was just part of the job. And I was okay with that—until I wasn’t.

Eventually, my wife saw what I refused to. When I was too prideful to ask for help, she did it for me. And when I was told to take a break, I didn’t know how to react.

For weeks, I sat in that feeling of failure, convinced I was alone. It reminded me of the psalmist’s words in Psalm 102:

“For my days pass away like smoke, and my bones burn like a furnace. My heart is struck down like grass and has withered; I forget to eat my bread. Because of my loud groaning my bones cling to my flesh. I am like a desert owl of the wilderness, like an owl of the waste places; I lie awake; I am like a lonely sparrow on the housetop…”

Psalm 102:3-7

But something unexpected happened in the silence. As the noise of ministry faded, I began to hear God’s voice in a way I hadn’t in years.

I saw how exhausted I truly was. I realized my identity had become wrapped up in my role. I recognized how I had neglected my own soul.

For so long, I had been focused on shepherding others, yet I had ignored the broken places in my own heart that desperately needed tending.

This unwanted breakthrough became a gift. It reminded me that ministry is not about me. God’s work doesn’t depend solely on my effort. My worth is not in how much I do, but in whose I am. So I humbled myself, surrendered, and took the opportunity to grow.

• I asked for help and invited mentors to walk with me in my pain.
• I submitted myself to leadership with full awareness that not dealing with my issues could cost me my job.
• I sat through weekly intensive counselling sessions and poured out my pain.
• I wept uncontrollably and became okay with wearing my heart on my sleeve.
• I apologized to my family, my youth staff, and my students for my pride.

All I could do was cast my burden on the Lord, and that’s when the fog started to lift and healing began. It wasn’t instant, and it wasn’t easy, but day by day, I felt His presence guiding me through the pain. The weight that once felt unbearable slowly became lighter, replaced by a deep sense of peace that only He could provide.

The truth is, I will continue to deal with my past, my pain, and my wounds. Even as a new creation in Christ, those things remain a part of my story. I think this is why both Paul and Peter said:

“…cast all your anxieties on Him
because He cares for you.”

^{1 Peter 5:7}

“…press on toward the goal for the prize
of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

^{Philippians 3:14}

Both apostles understood that following Jesus doesn’t erase our past, but it does redefine it. Paul, who once persecuted Christians, didn’t ignore his history—he acknowledged it as a testament to God’s grace. Peter, who denied Jesus three times, didn’t let his failure define him—he allowed Christ’s restoration to shape his future.

In the same way, I am learning that my past is not something to be ashamed of or something to run from. Instead, it is a part of my testimony, a reminder of where I’ve been and how far God has brought me. My wounds don’t disqualify me; they position me to experience and extend God’s healing to others.

This is the beauty of redemption. Jesus doesn’t just save us from our sin—He transforms our pain into purpose. My past struggles, failures, and hurts are not obstacles to my faith; they are the very places where God’s grace shines the brightest.

So, I will continue to walk forward, acknowledging my wounds but refusing to be defined by them. I will keep surrendering them to Christ, trusting that He is making all things new—including me.

If you’re reading this and feeling the weight of ministry, I want to encourage you: slow down. Take inventory of your soul. Don’t wait until you’re forced to stop—pause now. Let yourself rest. You are not God. You are not the Savior. You are simply a vessel He has chosen to use, and He cares more about your heart than your hustle.

To my fellow youth workers, pastors, and leaders—don’t wait until burnout takes you out. Your soul matters. And so does your story.

P.S. I’m back at work because I did the hard work… You can too!

 

---

This]]> Our Elder's recently met this past week. We began by lifting our hearts in prayer and asking God for guidance as we lead his church and his people to become authentic followers of Christ. We prayed for those in need, both within our church and the greater community. We also spent time praying with individuals who came seeking prayer and trusting in God's promises to hear and answer their needs according to His perfect will. As Elders our primary focus is to support and nurture our church by diligently discerning God's direction and call for our congregation. We are passionate about sharing the good news of Jesus Christ and creating an environment where individuals can grow deeper in their faith. We are grateful that many individuals participated in different opportunities for spiritual growth through the Counselling in Communities work shop, the Preaching Lab, and the Courageous Evangelism course. Those who participated in the Counselling in Community workshop learnt how to walk alon https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=124 Tue, 18 Feb 2025 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/124/EldersUpdateFebruary2025

 

Our Elder’s recently met this past week. We began by lifting our hearts in prayer and asking God for guidance as we lead his church and his people to become authentic followers of Christ. We prayed for those in need, both within our church and the greater community. We also spent time praying with individuals who came seeking prayer and trusting in God’s promises to hear and answer their needs according to His perfect will. As Elders our primary focus is to support and nurture our church by diligently discerning God’s direction and call for our congregation. We are passionate about sharing the good news of Jesus Christ and creating an environment where individuals can grow deeper in their faith.

We are grateful that many individuals participated in different opportunities for spiritual growth through the Counselling in Communities work shop, the Preaching Lab, and the Courageous Evangelism course. Those who participated in the Counselling in Community workshop learnt how to walk alongside those who are struggling in difficult situations. The Preaching Lab allows individuals to learn how to put together a sermon and use their gifts to preach the gospel.  The Courageous Evangelism course encouraged and equipped participants to tell their personal faith and Gospel stories with confidence and boldness.

We are excited to announce that we are in the planning stages of special Summits for both men and woman. These event will both be held in May and will provide a time of fellowship, teaching and spiritual refreshment. More details regarding the Summits including dates, speakers, and registration will be coming soon!

Pastor Jon is back!!!! We are grateful that Pastor Jon has returned from his personal leave. Be sure to give him a high-five if you see him around. God has blessed us with many gifted youth leaders who served well in his absence. A huge thank you goes out to Ethan, Julia, and Matt B. and the leaders for loving on our youth so well.

We also continue to support and encourage Chris Ross and his family through prayer as they move forward through this transition. We are grateful for his years of service at Central and want to acknowledge that even though his season at Central has come to a close we will continue to walk alongside him and his family as they seek new ministry opportunities. Please join us through prayer and if you have any questions or concerns contact one of us Elders. 

We encourage everyone to mark their calendars for our Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday March 2nd. This is a significant occasion for our church family to come together and celebrate the incredible ways God has been at work among us throughout the past year. It’s also an opportunity to look forward with anticipation to what He will accomplish in the future. The AGM will feature a time of worship through song and a devotional as well as present financial reports from 2024 and for 2025.  This will be a chance to enjoy fellowship with one another as well as hearing inspiring stories of how God is moving in the lives of our members. It's a time to express our gratitude for God's faithfulness and to strengthen the bonds of community. Elders will be available at the end of the meeting to address any questions you may have.

As we approach the season of Lent, we invite you to join us for an Ash Wednesday service March 5th .  We will be reflecting on Jesus’s journey to the cross and His sacrifice for us. A Lent guide will be available as you reflect on some of the vices of this world and exchange them for biblical virtues each week. At the completion of the lent season comes the celebration of Easter, where we proclaim the wonderful and life-changing news of our risen Savior, Jesus Christ!    

Ken Vink
- On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

---

Finance Update

The Elders received an encouraging financial update to the end of January. It was noted that donations to the end of January are up 21% over the previous year. The Elders celebrate the faithful support of the congregation to our mission to proclaim the Gospel. Expenses in January exceeded giving in the amount of $75,550 largely due to final year end expenses paid in January, capital expense the included new computers and camera equipment, and facilities costs related to parking lot safety.

It was also noted that funds have been moved into a reserve account in anticipation of the completion of the Let There Be Light project, and in an effort to build an operating reserve. The Elders noted that the benevolent account is being used to provide for ministry at Seabird Island, the Lake Errock food bank, and practical needs of those in the church and community. In January approximately $10,000 was invested in benevolent opportunities.

As we launch into a new fiscal year the elders encourage you to consider your part in our collective mission. God continues to provide for the ministry opportunities he has place in our path through the faithfulness of his people. Join the Elders in thanking God for his steadfast provision.

---

ELDER'S PRAYER

We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

Tuesday, March 18 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

Request Prayer

---

Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

]]> This past week we had our monthly elders meeting, and as we do most meetings we started off with a time of prayer. This month we were joined by most of the deacons in our church and spent time praying with people who came for prayer as well as many other prayer requests that were submitted throughout the month leading up to our meeting. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=123 Thu, 30 Jan 2025 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/123/EldersUpdateJanuary2025

 

This past week we had our monthly elders meeting, and as we do most meetings we started off with a time of prayer. This month we were joined by most of the deacons in our church and spent time praying with people who came for prayer as well as many other prayer requests that were submitted throughout the month leading up to our meeting. We then started off the meeting hearing the many ways the deacons have experienced God working through all their areas of ministry they serve in including food services on Sunday nights, audio and video, set up and take down in promontory, care and payer, stewardship and hospitality. It was humbling and so encouraging to here how God provides repeatedly to those stepping into challenging serving roles. 

As we met and look ahead to exciting things coming up it is also amazing to look back at the previous year to see how God provided faithfully through the generous giving from our church family. I will confess that my nature is to be cautious, and often overly concerned about the shortfall of finances at Church. Once again God taught me a lesson: That kingdom economics are upside down and God can do anything. God says in his Word that he loves a cheerful giver (2 Cor 9:7-9) and it was beautiful to see how he provided for all our needs and more as we finished off the year with generous giving from you all. December was the largest giving month ever in the history of our church and we ended up surpassing our budget after being short for most of the year. Praise to the Lord for his wonderful provision! It was also wonderful to wrap up the year with Christmas Eve services where many people could come and hear the gospel for the first time.

We also spent time looking ahead at the ministries happening now and in the next few months. Twenty-four people, (twice the usual number of people) signed up for the Preaching Lab where Pastor Matt and Pastor Jonathan teach how you can articulate the gospel in an effective way in whatever capacity they are teaching others. They get a couple practice runs of preaching a mini sermon to the rest of the group with a chance for feedback. There is also a Counselling In Communities class at the end of January in February which will be very helpful in helping those in leadership care well for those that are struggling. There is also an Courageous Evangelism class at the Harrison campus led by Pastor Jeremy and Pastor Eldon which started this week and will run for the next couple weeks. They will also have Sam Dick from Multiply as well as local missionary Brad Bates there to teach all about evangelism and ultimately help us lead others to Jesus. All of these recourses have more info on them on our app and on the church website. We are also excited about an upcoming women’s retreat with Kristal Toews coming to speak and a men's retreat with Brett Landry as guest speaker — both happening in May.

As our Church continues to grow, and space always seems to be an issue, we spent time discussing our 5 Year Plan and what things could look like going forward for our church. We have been so blessed to see how well our Sunday dinners and 5.15 service are going, but with all ministry, it takes a lot of work from pastors and volunteers. Our prayer is for healthy sustainable ministry. If you attend our Chilliwack Campus we would love to encourage you that if it works for you, to prayerfully consider making the 5.15 service your go-to service allowing for new people to come to our morning services as they are often packed. As we continue to wrestle through the decisions that need to be made I am reminded of the verse in Proverbs, "Many are the plans in the mind of man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand" (Prov 19:21). Our prayer as elders is to continually seek the Lord's guidance as we follow after him with you in seeking to reach the entire eastern Fraser Valley with gospel for His glory.
 

Gary Baars
- On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

---

Finance Update

The Elders received a year end report detailing the income and expenses of the church for 2024. They were encouraged to see that the congregation provided graciously and generously for the mission of the church. They were also encouraged to note that the staff team managed the finances of the church to ensure that expenses were in line with the budget. Donations received in the amount of $2,963,956 exceeded our donation budget of $2,880,270. Join us in celebrating God’s provision through his church! Donations to the benevolent fund also surpassed our needs with $97,227 being invested into the lives of people in need. Here too there is reason to celebrate God’s provision and Central’s ability to come along side people by meeting their practical needs.

As we begin a new budget year, we encourage you to continue to remain faithful by investing into our vision to see the Easter Fraser Valley transformed by the Gospel. New ministry opportunities continue to present themselves and our determination is to respond faithfully to the prompting and provision of God.

---

ELDER'S PRAYER

We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

Tuesday, February 18 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

Request Prayer

---

Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

]]> The head of Central Community Church is Jesus Christ. As a church, we strive to be faithful to Jesus and live out His purposes in our community and world. On a practical level, Jesus gifts and calls individuals to give leadership to His church. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=122 Sun, 26 Jan 2025 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/122/ElderNominations2025

The head of Central Community Church is Jesus Christ. As a church, we strive to be faithful to Jesus and live out His purposes in our community and world.

On a practical level, Jesus gifts and calls individuals to give leadership to His church. The New Testament is clear that the church is to be led under the oversight and watchful care of godly leaders. Their authority is expressed in servant leadership, not in “lording over” those placed in their charge, and they are responsible for the spiritual life and health of the church. The leaders are members of the church who are gifted, discerned and commissioned to give direction, oversight and care. At Central, we are elder led. They give governing oversight and commission pastors to give leadership and oversight in specific ministry areas.

Currently our Elders consist of thirteen individuals who were nominated and found to meet the biblical requirements for the office of Eldership, as well as the two pastors of the Pastoral Leadership Team – our Lead Pastor and Executive Pastor. It is our hope to add to the current Elder team and continue a rotational term of office. We are requesting that you be in prayer about those God would have join Central’s Elders, and we invite you to nominate godly men that you believe possess the spiritual gift of leadership and fulfill the biblical qualifications of an Elder. Prayerfully consider nominating an Elder candidate you believe fulfills the qualities set out in the Bible for church leadership; to nominate a candidate, please complete the online nomination form below. Paper copies of the nomination form are available at each campus welcome desk and the central front office.

Nominations will be accepted until Sunday, March 9; please submit your nominations before then. The Discernment Team and current Elders will make recommendations for new Elders in May 2024.

We appreciate your prayers as we begin this process.

On the journey with you,

Alf Wiebe
On behalf of the Elders

Click here to read about the Elder Role
Click here to read about the Term of Service
Click here to read about the Selection Process

 
Online Nomination Form

 

---

ROLE OF THE ELDERS

Elders are to use their wisdom, discernment and shepherding gifts to ensure that the church remains on “true north” biblically. They are the “keepers of the vision” and, as such, lead the church in major decision-making and strategic initiatives. In this regard they will:

• set the overall philosophy, vision and direction for the church in a context of prayer and Scripture. ^{(Acts 6:4)}
• ensure that we are effectively achieving our purpose of leading people to be authentic followers of Jesus - always helping people take the next step with Him. ^{(Acts 20:28)}
• ensure that the body is being fed through insightful and accurate biblical teaching. They determine what are the major issues or essentials for Central to uphold, while avoiding needless controversy over minor issues. ^{(Titus 1:9)}
• ensure that the church is protected from harmful influences by confronting those who are contradicting biblical truth or who are continuing in patterns of sinful behaviours. In doing so, they are to keep closing potential entrances for Satan so that the truth of Christ will remain credible to both the congregation and the community. ^{(Matthew 18:15-17)}
• ensure that the life of the church is being well managed with the assistance of other competent and godly leaders. As legal directors for the church, they oversee legal and financial matters, and set church management policy. Our legal documents (Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws) detail their governance duties.

_{| TOP OF PAGE |}

---

TERM OF SERVICE INFORMATION

General Principles:
Scripture offers no indication of a fixed term for leaders within the church. At Central, two principles guide our thinking with regard to the term of Elders: the importance of stability and the need for fresh perspectives. With these two principles in mind, Central practices a rotational leadership term. Desiring to build the Elder team to twelve members, each year, Central will plan to add 1-2 new members to the Elder Team. Once the establishment of a team of twelve is achieved, those that have served a maximum of six years will step down, unless otherwise requested. This vacancy will allow new members to be added to the Elder team, fulfilling the fresh perspective principle. The process for adding new Elders commences in January or February and culminates in a time of affirmation from the congregation following the selection process, with new Elders beginning their term June 1st of each year.

Specific Term:
Each Elder is commissioned to serve a six-year term of office. Should a team member leave office before completing their six-year term, a new member will be brought on to replace the leaving member and complete the remainder of that term. After completing a term of leadership, a person is encouraged to take a one-year leadership sabbatical, allowing for a time of refreshing. Following this sabbatical, that person is eligible for nomination to the Elder team again. As with all policies, this process can be suspended, with Elder approval, if deemed in the best interest of the church.

_{| TOP OF PAGE |}

---

ELDER SELECTION

Scripture gives evidence of leaders being appointed by the founders of the church. By this example it is implied that the existing spiritual leadership of a church be intimately involved in the process of selecting leaders to ensure selection based on spiritual, rather than superficial qualifications.

Process for Selection:

1. The existing leaders shall appoint a Discernment Team (“DT”) consisting of three participating members. One will be from the Elder team, one from the Pastoral Leadership Team and one from the congregation at large. For the purpose of order, the DT shall select one member of their team to be chairman.
2. The congregation shall be prov]]> The Elders met for prayer on the evening of Tuesday, December 17th at the Chilliwack Campus. Our prayer time was followed by a meeting to discuss 4 primary topics: Campus Autonomy, Finances, Ministry, Staffing. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=121 Tue, 17 Dec 2024 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/121/EldersUpdateDecember2024

   The Elders met for prayer on the evening of Tuesday, December 17th at the Chilliwack Campus. Our prayer time was followed by a meeting to discuss 4 primary topics: Campus Autonomy, Finances,  Ministry, Staffing.

   Campus Automony

   Regarding campus autonomy, we seek the wisdom of those who have gone before us in other churches. We reviewed some readings and discussed the marks of a healthy campus and how that might evolve into autonomy and then the various ways the autonomous campus could cooperate or partner with other campuses post-autonomy. In relation to Promontory's move toward autonomy, we dialogued about the merits of collaboration on youth ministry, kids' ministry, administration, and other discipleship programs, weighing what ultimately will help Promontory step into their own calling and direction as a church. This will be an ongoing discussion as we move forward.

   Finances

   Finances and budget are a monthly topic of discussion and we received updates on giving and expenses for 2024 and we are tremendously encouraged by your generosity and investment into this bold vision of reaching the Eastern Fraser Valley with the Good News of Jesus Christ. The annual pattern of giving appears to be holding true again as the November and December giving is much larger than other months. Thank you. We are encouraged by your generosity and obedience to God's calling for your finances. As we look forward to next year, we approved the 2025 budget after prayer and discussion over the past couple of months. The 2025 budget is over $3 million and represents our discernment of what God is calling us to while being conscientious stewards of what He's entrusting to us. Every dollar has a purpose and is fully leveraged as we continue to move boldly into the communities we are in with the Good News. Our work has eternal significance and we must be faithful to our Lord's calling. Obedience is not an option; we must trust Him and obey. To be very candid, this is an area we struggle with each month. We feel like Jacob wrestling the angel and we leave having sought God's will and yet we are a little worse for wear. Please pray with us as we discern how to navigate the path forward. We have a big wish list of items that we could do, including practical facilities updates and new or updated ministries that are exciting but we live with constraints of our financial reality. The wrestling match will continue.

   Ministry

   Ministry updates were discussed and the vibrancy of what God's Holy Spirit is doing among us is incredible. People are being freed of spiritual oppression, freed into a new life in Christ and having their faith renewed. Many are taking steps of obedience in their faith, with 56 baptisms this year. Praise God! We have seen a 60% increase in weekly worship service attendance over the past 5 years with a 20% increase in the past year alone. Life groups, youth and children's ministries are growing and energetic. Women's and men's ministries are undergoing transitions at the Chilliwack Campus and we are seeing some wonderful new life in these ministries north of the Fraser and at Promontory. We are actively looking for a Women's Ministry Director and are engaging with others on men’s and young adults' ministries. Our cultural moment and the pace of life is necessitating that we move in new directions with some of our ministries as we seek to engage men, women and children where they are, rather than just put on another program that is sparsely attended. Growing disciples of Christ who make new disciples is our aim and we desire that everyone in our congregation to be in some kind of active discipleship relationship. More on this to come.

   Staffing

   Central has experienced a protracted season of steady growth and change. With our growth has come the need to regularly evaluate and adapt our ministry focus and the staffing that goes with it. A few weeks ago, a meeting was held with Pastor Chris Ross to discuss the direction and future of his ministry area. It was determined that Central will be bringing the Family Equipping Pastor role to an end. Plans are being put in place to cover ancillary ministry such as young adults and men’s ministry. As a result of our conversation, and through consultation, Chris will officially conclude his time on the Central team effective this month. As a family of faith, we love Chris, his gifting, and his commitment to godly character. We will be providing meaningful practical and moral support for him as he discerns his next steps and cares for his family. We are thankful to God for His provision for the church, and trust that God will guide our next steps going forward. Please join the Elders as we pray for Chris and his family, for the ministry of the church, and for wisdom as we adapt. On other staffing matters, we are actively looking for a Women's Ministry Director and have begun a part-time Care & Counselling Director role as many in our family of faith need a venue to process the challenges of life in a healthy and spiritually attuned way. We want to provide this and we are encouraged by the healed relationships and healthy personal decisions that can come out of biblically based counselling.

   As we approach Christmas and complete the Advent season, we spend time anticipating the second coming of our Saviour and reflect with gratitude on His first coming. The new life available through faith in Jesus Christ is not just a moment in time but a completely new life marked by an indwelling and obedience to the leading of the Holy Spirit. Hope abundant and everlasting life begin fresh each day as Jesus has conquered sin and death for us and a pathway to new life in heaven has opened up, diverting us from the path of sin, leading us to death and destruction. Let us all be encouraged by God's continuing work among us and motivated to continue, together, unburdened up the path to heaven. Glory to God.

   Nevertheless the gloom will not be upon her who is distressed,
   As when at first He lightly esteemed
   The land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali,
   And afterward more heavily oppressed her,
   By the way of the sea, beyond the Jordan,
   In Galilee of the Gentiles.
   The people who walked in darkness
   Have seen a great light;
   Those who dwelt in the land of the shadow of death,
   Upon them a light has shined.
   
   You have multiplied the nation
   And increased its joy;
   They rejoice before You
   According to the joy of harvest,
   As men rejoice when they divide the spoil.
   For You have broken the yoke of his burden
   And the staff of his shoulder,
   The rod of his oppressor,
   As in the day of Midian.
   For every warrior’s sandal from the noisy battle,
   And garments rolled in blood,
   Will be used for burning and fuel of fire.
   
   For unto us a Child is born,
   Unto us a Son is given;
   And the government will be upon His shoulder.
   And His name will be called
   Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God,
   Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.
   Of the increase of His government and peace
   There will be no end,
   Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom,
   To order it and establish it with judgment and justice
   From that time forward, even forever.
   The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.

   Isaiah 9

    

   Eddy Mejlholm
   The Elders of Central Community Church met on the evening of November 19th at the Chilliwack Campus. We broke bread, sharing a meal with the pastoral staff along with a time of fellowship and prayer. Although we encounter trials, anxieties, and discouragement, we also share a common bond of joy and peace in our Lord Jesus and that, through all adversities, He sustains us individually and in community through His Grace, the Word and the Holy Spirit. This is a great and wonderful mystery that makes my heart glad. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=120 Tue, 19 Nov 2024 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/120/EldersUpdateNovember2024

   The Elders of Central Community Church met on the evening of November 19th at the Chilliwack Campus. We broke bread, sharing a meal with the pastoral staff along with a time of fellowship and prayer. Although we encounter trials, anxieties, and discouragement, we also share a common bond of joy and peace in our Lord Jesus and that, through all adversities, He sustains us individually and in community through His Grace, the Word and the Holy Spirit. This is a great and wonderful mystery that makes my heart glad.

   We are encouraged by the abundant fruit of the many ministries of Central. Daily we see lives transformed, young and old. Through the living work of the Word of God in our hearts enabled by the Holy Spirit, we see repentance from sin, disciples growing in faith, obedient baptism, and a yearning among our community for a life marked by trust in our Lord. This is enabled by the faithful diligent work of volunteers and staff and by obedient regular financial giving as an act of worship.

   We received updates on the ministries of the church and note that total Sunday attendance at all campuses is regularly over 1500 people each week. Faithful preaching of the Word of God remains our primary ministry and God's Word remains living and active, able to teach us. Children's ministry is thriving with children hearing about Jesus each week at 5 locations and 7 different services. Youth has dedicated staff and volunteers creating a community each week to help make faith real for teenagers both North and South of the Fraser. There are many other ministries to highlight, and we hope to enhance our communication about what God is doing so you may be encouraged in your faith and trust in God.

   Trust in the Lord is difficult, even for elders, even surrounded by evidence of His work. God gives us grace and yet we find it challenging to contemplate our budget and ministry priorities for 2025 because we are in a deficit of $384,000 as of October 31st. Most years we see that 20-25% of annual giving happens in December, but we do not know what will happen and we have no options to increase revenue except to pray and ask that God stir up a generous Spirit in our hearts, providing abundance. As of now, in faith, we have fully used every available resource to keep paying our bills and we move forward in faith anticipating God's provision through our community's generousity. We pray that God blesses you and you are able to respond to His Blessing in worship, glorifying Him through your finances. We also pray that God multiplies our resources, as He is able, to enable disciple making here in the Eastern Fraser Valley that glorifies Him and is good for us.

   “My Spirit remains in your midst. Fear not. For thus says the Lord of hosts: Yet once more, in a little while, I will shake the heavens and the earth and the sea and the dry land. And I will shake all nations, so that the treasures of all nations shall come in, and I will fill this house with glory, says the Lord of hosts. The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, declares the Lord of hosts. The latter glory of this house shall be greater than the former, says the Lord of hosts. And in this place I will give peace, declares the Lord of hosts."

   Haggai‬ ‭2‬:‭5‬-‭9‬ ‭

   In the Peace of the Lord, Your Brother in Christ

   Eddy Mejlholm
   - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

   ---

   Finance Update
   
   

   The Elders received an update regarding the year-to-date finances to the end of October. It was noted that expenses continue to outpace income with our current deficit at $384,089. Following our historic giving patterns, November and December tend to be our largest giving months and it is hoped that this year will follow a similar trend. The elders noted that expenses are well within budget allowances with most areas significantly below budget. Increased costs, staffing five campuses, and maintaining five locations continues to be our largest expense categories. The elders received the first draft of the 2025 budget that contained an operations reserve, and recommendations from the Stewardship Team related to the budget and updating the congregation on our financial picture. The elders noted that the lights in the Chilliwack sanctuary have been installed and have been well received. They also spent time evaluating the benevolent fund noting that strict protocols are in place to ensure that monies are used for their designated purpose.  
   

   As Central moves into the final weeks of 2024 the elders are grateful for the congregation's faithful participation in the financial needs of the church to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley with the gospel. Recognizing that for many this has been a challenging year financially; they are thankful for everyone's sacrificial investment in Kingdom ministry. 

    

   ---

   ELDER'S PRAYER
   
   

   We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

   Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

   Tuesday, December 17 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
   Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

   You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

   Request Prayer

   ---

   Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
   Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

   ]]> October's elders meeting began the same way as all of our meetings do: with forty-five minutes of prayer. This is a time for the elders of our church to get on our knees before our God, give Him praise, and intercede for the needs of our congregation. Congregation members are welcomed and encouraged to come at this time so that we can pray with and for them as well. Getting the opportunity to pray with those of you who come is probably one of my favourite parts of being an elder. I can also say that spending the first forty-five minutes on our knees really sets the tone before we tackle the agenda for the evening. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=119 Tue, 22 Oct 2024 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/119/EldersUpdateOctober2024

   October’s elders meeting began the same way as all of our meetings do: with forty-five minutes of prayer. This is a time for the elders of our church to get on our knees before our God, give Him praise, and intercede for the needs of our congregation. Congregation members are welcomed and encouraged to come at this time so that we can pray with and for them as well. Getting the opportunity to pray with those of you who come is probably one of my favourite parts of being an elder. I can also say that spending the first forty-five minutes on our knees really sets the tone before we tackle the agenda for the evening.

   This September, in addition to our elders meeting, the elders had a brief retreat day, where we spent some time discussing prayer, sharing with each other, and praying for one another, followed by some unwinding together at the Cultus Lake driving range. A big part of our discussion was around how we pray, and how its easy to get bogged down in the requests and neglect to spend time in praise and adoration. In other words, we spend more time with the “give us this day our daily bread” part of the Lord’s Prayer, and less time with the “Hallowed be your name” part. We hope to all grow in this area of our prayer lives, as individuals and as a group of elders; beginning our prayers as Jesus taught us: adoring our Father in heaven, and asking that His will be done before we make a single request. Surrendering our will to His, before we ask Him for the things we want; because ultimately His kingdom will come by His will being done, not our own.

   “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

   One of the great privileges of being an elder, or involved closely in any ministry for that matter, is getting to see that kingdom growing. Another part of our regular meetings is a ministry update, and I am always blown away by the amount of ministry that happens beyond the Sunday morning and outside the church doors. Many of our campuses are coming alongside local schools to help families in need or provide food for lunch programs. Community engagement happens through things like our food banks, free firewood, and sports camps. Programs like Freedom Session as well as our regular life groups provide opportunities for real and raw discipleship. I am always in awe of just how many ways that God is working through so many of you every month.

   One significant part of our elders meeting this month was setting a target date for our Promontory Campus to become an autonomous church. Pastor Jonathan Neufeld joined this portion of the meeting and we spent time discussing critical factors and considerations for why and when and continued to bring it to God in prayer. As we communicated at our last AGM, Central’s goal is not to have a number of campuses but to plant healthy churches across the eastern Fraser Valley – for which campuses has been a useful model in doing so. We recognize that the time will come when we will actually be holding a campus back from fulfilling their own mission and ability to multiply, and we believe that time is approaching for the Promontory Campus. They are meeting all of the key targets in our campuses metrics documents (shared at our AGM) and so we are pressing ahead with planning. More details to come.

   We are thankful to see the kingdom coming, and excited to catch a glimpse of gospel transformation happening in the eastern Fraser Valley. But the work is not yet finished, and to that end we look ahead. We spent some time this past meeting thinking about what future growth looks like for Central. As more are added to our number and as our campuses mature, we can only imagine what God has in store as we move forward. As we plan for the future, we must look to our Father in heaven with open hands, saying, “Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”

    

    

   Justin Vugteveen
   - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

   ---

   Finance Update
   
   

   The Elders received a finance update to the end of September. It was noted that people continue to graciously support the ministry and mission of Central with overall giving up 11% over the previous year. It was also noted that ministry expenses and overall operations costs leave us with a significant deficit of income to expense in the year to date amount of $310,000. It was noted that expenses are well within budget parameters with most ministry areas trending below budget. Giving trends through October suggest that we are tracking with previous giving patterns and the elders noted that November and December tend to be our largest giving months with some 30% of the budget coming in during these two months.
   

   

   As is our practice, year to date giving statements will be sent to all donors within the next few weeks. These are not tax receipts but simply update donors of their giving status. It was reported that the new lights in the Chilliwack sanctuary are scheduled to be installed next week following a prolonged shipping delay. As we move toward the end of a calendar year, the elders encourage you to consider your part in assisting the church to meet its financial obligations. Please prayerfully consider your response to the financial needs of the church.

   Thank you for your faithful investment into the Kingdom work of Central.

    

   ---

   ELDER'S PRAYER
   
   

   We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

   Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

   Tuesday, December 17 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
   Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

   You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

   Request Prayer

   ---

   Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
   Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

   ]]> Here we go again! The Elders were happy to meet together this past week after a summer hiatus. We began our meeting as we always do with prayer. We are so thankful for what God is doing at Central and we praise God for the opportunity we have to serve Him. Many people came to be prayed for by the elders. This prayer time is a wonderful way to walk alongside people during times of hurt and suffering. We love to celebrate when God answers these prayers and meets His people in their times of need. We know many of you are going through seasons of difficulty and would encourage you to come and be prayed for by the elders, following the pattern laid out in James 5. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=118 Mon, 23 Sep 2024 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/118/EldersUpdateSeptember2024

   We want to let you know that Jorge Salazar has stepped down from his elder role at Central because he has taken a lead pastor role at Arnold Community Church. We will sincerely miss him as his spiritual gifts and his knowledge of the Word were a great benefit to the elder team. We wish him and his family all the best in this new role.

   This summer season of church ministry was full. Many kids camps were held between all the campuses. The Chilliwack Campus hosted the Let There Be Light fundraiser. As a church, we celebrated baptisms at Harrison in August. There were 37 people baptized and an entire beach packed full of supporters. We had 13 individuals become ministry partners in addition to those who were baptized. We kicked off the the new ministry year with 24 hours of prayer and the Grade One kids bible presentations the following Sunday.

   Part of our discussion last week was about the value and purpose behind our church’s processes for both baptism and ministry partnership. It is our desire that every ministry partner understands that both accountability and church discipline are a necessary part of partnership and are used to build church unity, protect against sin, and encourage us all toward Christ-likeness. Mathew 18 lays out the process for how a church is meant to deal with ongoing, intentional, unrepentant sin in someone’s life. After many months and lots of prayers and petitions to repent we have found ourselves at the final step of this process and have had to remove someone from ministry partnership. Please pray for those entangled in sin and us as elders as we work through the process of church discipline.

   We are seeing growth in attendance at all campuses and also in both kids ministry and youth ministry. People are growing in their understanding of the Word and going deeper in their relationship with Christ. Last Sunday, we launched a third service at our Chilliwack Campus which begins at 5:15, with dinner beforehand at 4:30. The mission of this service is the same as is always has been: to make disciples and reach the eastern Fraser Valley with the gospel. Our prayer is that the third service will do just that, by making more room during the two morning services and providing a convenient time for those who don’t normally go to church.

   Later this month, the Elders will be having a mini retreat. The goal is to take some extra time together for prayer, discussion, and to build team unity.

   We look forward to continue to serve you as elders and are excited about what God has for us in this next season of ministry.

   On behalf of the Elders,

   DJ Hiebert
   - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

   ---

   Finance Update
   
   

   The Elders evaluated the year to date finances of the church to the end of August. It is clear that faithful giving to the ministries of Central, and our commitment to our vision, continues to be strong with overall giving up 10% over the previous year. As is our traditional pattern at this time of year, currently giving lags behind expenses. In keeping with previous years, this pattern continues in 2024. A host of dynamic ministry events and activities have had an impact on our budget as a whole and we are currently experiencing a shortfall of income to expenses of $272,770. It was note that the majority of our ministry expenditures are well below budget, and that expenses associated with Let There Be Light, and the need to replace the windows in our Lake Errock campus make up a significant part of this deficit. Giving to the benevolent fund continues to be strong with needs in the community and church being met in practical and effective ways.

   

   As we move into the final quarter of the year, the Elders encourage you to consider your part in helping us achieve our collective goal of seeing the  entire eastern Fraser Valley transformed by the Gospel. As ministries kick off so too does our commitment to provide the resources necessary to see them thrive and make an impact. The Elders are grateful for your sacrificial support with your time, gifts, and giving.

   Thank you for your faithful investment into the Kingdom work of Central.

    

   ---

   ELDER'S PRAYER
   
   

   We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

   Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

   Tuesday, October 15 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
   Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

   You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

   Request Prayer

   ---

   Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
   Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

   ]]> It seems another ministry season has come to an end and the rhythm of summer kicks in. We elders enjoyed meeting this past Tuesday. Several members of the congregation allowed us the privilege to pray with them. Beginning these evenings in prayer, with and for the people and ministries of Central; bringing requests to our Lord, is a very humbling aspect of our monthly meetings. We realize many of you have suffered the loss of loved ones. I pray you will find comfort from Jesus and from your church family https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=117 Tue, 18 Jun 2024 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/117/EldersUpdateJune2024

   Over the past few months we have discerned some new elders. Three men have joined the Elders Team.  Please lift up Rich Kopanke, Walter Schroeder and Eddy Mejlhom in prayer as they serve Central in this new capacity. God has provided us with tremendous new leaders! It was wonderful to have these men participate in the meeting this past Tuesday.

   Jayeson led us through a discussion on The Power of the Church from Wayne Grudem’s Systematic Theology (ch. 46). What a beautiful process of restoration and reconciliation Jesus lays out for the church pertaining to church discipline. As odd as it sounds, discipline carried out in a Biblical manner is a true expression of the Christian Gospel. A lively discussion ensued as we explore how to be true to the Biblical teaching on Church Discipline within our context at Central.

   Kids camps are quickly approaching. Please pray for our children and their friends and ask the Lord to work through these exciting, fun, outreach opportunities.

   Please mark off Thursday, August 22 at 6pm in your calendar. It is Baptism time at Harrison Lake!! God is moving in the hearts of over 50 people to follow Him in the practice of Baptism! In addition to these baptismal candidates we have many more people who are excited about the vision of Central and seeking Ministry Partnership!

   God is growing His church and we are feeling it practically at our Chilliwack Campus. The two Sunday morning services are nearing capacity. In order to make room for newcomers at our Sunday morning services, we are launching a third service!  Beginning September 15, 2024, a Sunday 5.15pm evening service will offer everything the morning services have with a bonus….in addition to Gospel centered worship, Biblical preaching, effective children’s ministry, we will also enjoy a meal together. Come for great fellowship over dinner, then move into the worship service. Please prayerfully consider if you would be a person or family who will choose to adjust your Sunday service time to make room in the morning services. You can commit to serve or worship in these services - here.

   As you head into these summer months, I pray you will retain intentionality in Church attendance, whatever community you find yourself.

   And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. 

   Hebrews 10: 24-25

   On behalf of the Elders,

   Ernie Charlton
   - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

   ---

   Finance Update
   
   

   The Elders received a financial update to the end of May. They were encouraged to note that giving to the mission and ministries of the church are up significantly over the previous year with $1,005,859 being received. On top of this generosity, several events (marriage retreat, Mexico mission, both men’s and women’s retreats, and Compassion Sundays at three campuses) also saw record commitment to the mission of God thought Central. God continues to provide through his people.

   

   Ministry expenses are well under budget and being managed well. One significant exception is the maintenance budget which saw an unexpected expense of $28,000 to pay for windows in the Lake Errock building. Staffing at five locations continues to be the largest ministry expense, but it also allows us to serve the communities of Agassiz, Chilliwack, Harrison, Lake Errock, and Promontory with diligence. This summer the addition of a ministry intern for children's’ ministry will afford opportunity for strong outreach through five day camps run throughout the summer.

   While not part of the May financial report, the Elders received word that our Let There Be Light campaign to raise funds to replace lighting in the Chilliwack campus saw $139, 804 raised. This total included monies raised through our live and online auction, donations from all campuses, and a cheque from Mainstreet Church in the amount of $16,000 as a gift demonstrating their support. The elders approved the ordering of supplies for the sanctuary renovation with the expectation that the project will be completed for September.
   

   As is our financial pattern this time of year, it was noted that expenses exceed year to date income in the amount of $122,834. This includes the Lake Errock repairs. Managing our finances closely over the summer months will be essential. As we move into what are our traditionally leaner giving months the Elders encourage you to consider how you might support the ongoing ministries of the church. Online or automated giving serves as a helpful giving option, especially during the vacation season. You can sign up to do so here: www.centralcommunity.ca/WaysToGive
   

   Thank you for your faithful investment into the Kingdom work of Central.

    

   ---

   ELDER'S PRAYER
   
   

   We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

   Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

   Tuesday, September 17 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
   Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

   You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

   Request Prayer

   ---

   Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
   Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

   ]]> The difference a committed Christian dad makes is nothing short of revolutionary. Don't just take my word for it, the data bears this out. Dads, your presence and consistency matters. You're making a world of difference in your kids lives. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=116 Sun, 16 Jun 2024 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/116/ChristianFathers

   There’s been a common theme in TV and movies for years where the dad is a bumbling idiot. From Homer in The Simpsons to Phil in Modern Family, Peter Griffin in Family Guy or Al Bundy in Married With Children, you get the impression that dads are essentially just another one of the kids mom needs to parent.

   In fact, a researcher analyzed more than 2000 media portrayals of men and found over 75% of all representations portrayed them as “villains, aggressors, perverts, and philanderers”. And even when you get a solid portrayal of a dad on TV like Bill Cosby of The Cosby Show, he winds up outdoing the negative stereotype in real life.

   Yet the difference real dads make in homes across Canada by being present and active in their kids lives is undeniable. The difference Christian dads make who also teach and model love for Jesus is nothing short of transformative and revolutionary.

   
   FATHERHOOD BY THE NUMBERS

   Statistically, if a father is present at home his children are twice as likely to go to college, 80% less likely to spend time in jail, and 75% less likely to experience teen pregnancy. Father-absent homes, on the other hand, account for 71% of high school dropouts and 90% of homeless and runaway children.

   A Swiss study concluded that whether faith would be carried through to the next generation came down to one overwhelming and critical factor: It is the faith practice of the father of the family that, above all, determines the future attendance at or absence from church of the children.

   In her book, The Toxic War on Masculinity, Dr. Nancy Pearcey interacts with empirical studies that reveal who the most loving husbands and engaged dads in America are. They found that men who identify as theologically conservative Christians divide into two distinct groups—and these groups diverge dramatically. One consists of those who are devout in their faith, defined as those who attend church at least three times a month. These men shatter the negative stereotypes that are out there about conservative, evangelical men; you know, the patriarchy! It turns out that they are the most loving to their wives and more emotionally engaged with their children than any other group of dads in America. They are the least likely to divorce, and they have the lowest levels of domestic abuse and violence. The research also showed that their wives report the highest levels of happiness in marriage.

   The other group that identify as theologically conservative Christians, however, test out with far different results. “Nominals” are defined as those who identify with a religious tradition because of their family or cultural background but who attend church sporadically, if at all. Nominal means “in name only”. Studies find that nominal Christian family men do fit the negative stereotypes—shockingly so. They spend less time with their children, either in discipline or shared activities. Their wives report significantly lower levels of happiness. And their marriages are far less stable. Whereas active evangelical men are 35% less likely to divorce than secular men, nominals are 20% more likely to divorce than secular men. And whereas committed churchgoing couples report the lowest rate of violence of any group, nominals report the highest rate of violence of any group—even higher than secular couples.

   Brad Wilcox, the lead sociologist conducting the study concluded, “The most violent husbands in America are nominal evangelical Protestants who attend church infrequently or not at all.” And while that is truly horrifying, said the other way is encouraging indeed: The most loving and committed husbands and most engaged fathers are committed evangelical Christian men.

   The most loving and committed husbands
   and most engaged fathers are
   committed evangelical Christian men.

   
   THE DADS WE NEED

   Dads, here’s the big takeaway from the data: Love Jesus and love your wife. Love Jesus more than anything and love your wife more than anybody on the planet. With that foundation, it wouldn’t be a stretch to say that the whole parenting thing will fall into place. So follow Jesus, go to church, pursue your wife, and work on your marriage.

   When the Apostle Paul instructs fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord he’s addressing a negative tendency in dads and pointing them to a better way (Ephesians 6:4). To provoke your child to anger is to consistently parent in such a way that raises frustrated, angry, resentful kids. Dads can do this by making a pattern of being overly critical about everything on the one hand, or disengaged about everything on the other, or by being routinely harsh and rarely tender.

   Instead, bring them up in discipline and instruction. Discipline has to do with rules, parameters, and enforcing boundaries. Kids need these. And they need dad to be consistent and predictable in laying down good and smart rules and sticking with them. In fact, Hebrews 12:6 tells us that the Lord disciplines the one he loves…for our good. Instruction has to do with counselling, dialoguing, reasoning, and persuading. Yes, your kids need rules but they also need to know why. You’re training your kids for life so make a case for moral goods and speak to their hearts. Behaviour flows from the heart.

   “Train up a child in the way he should go
   —but be sure you go that way yourself.”

   ^{Charles Spurgeon}

   Dads, your kids are listening to you and watching you attentively. So teach by both telling and modelling to them the way they should go.

   
   THE GOSPEL DAD

   No dad is going to do all this perfectly. Every dad will provoke their children to anger, not be consistent with discipline and instruction, and not model a life worth emulating at some point. And that is why the end of the verse is so important. It calls us to parent in the Lord. In other words, give them Jesus and rely on Jesus as you parent.

   Tell your kids the gospel but also teach your kids the gospel by modelling it; seeing you love the gospel and need the gospel. Prioritize Jesus in your own life and when you fail, show them what it looks like to repent and receive grace.

   The way the Parable of the Prodigal Son ends (Luke 15) is so instructive for us dads. Jesus says, “While [the prodigal son] was still a long way off, his father saw him and felt compassion, and ran and embrace him and kissed him” and then goes on to throw a party for him. Here’s what he doesn’t do: Sit on his rocking chair on the front porch waiting for his son to grovel at his feet and proceed to throw down discipline at him and blast him for neglecting his instruction. No, in that moment of his son’s deepest vulnerability and shame, he displayed the gospel to him.

   And the only way you can be a father like that is if you have encountered our Heavenly Father like that yourself.

   We began our elders meeting this month by having dinner with the pastors and taking time to pray for each of them. What a privilege to rub shoulders with such amazing people! We as elders are so thankful to have such a gifted team of pastors serving the church. I am always impressed by them, not only in their ability to operate and lead their individual ministries, but how they disciple others to lead, inspire others to the vision, and love and be loved by our congregations. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=114 Tue, 21 May 2024 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/114/EldersUpdateMay2024

   “And they devoted themselves to the apostles teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.”

   Acts 2:42

   We began our elders meeting this month by having dinner with the pastors and taking time to pray for each of them. What a privilege to rub shoulders with such amazing people! We as elders are so thankful to have such a gifted team of pastors serving the church. I am always impressed by them, not only in their ability to operate and lead their individual ministries, but how they disciple others to lead, inspire others to the vision, and love and be loved by our congregations. If you have a moment this week, take some time to thank a pastor for their hard work; ministry is often a thankless job and they all do it so faithfully and cheerfully.

   “I exhort the elders among you, as a fellow elder and a witness of the sufferings of Christ, as well as a partaker in the glory that is to be revealed: shepherd the flock of God that is among you, exercising oversight, not under compulsion, but willingly, as God would have you; not for shameful gain, but eagerly; not domineering over those in your charge, but being examples to the flock.”

   1 Peter 5:1-3

   After our meal with the pastors, we were joined by our new elder candidates. This was an opportunity for elder candidates to ask us questions about the role as a part of the discernment process. I just have to say that God has been so good in raising up godly men from among us to become elders in our church and this year is no exception; these guys are awesome! Would you please join us in praying for the candidates as they, their families, and our church discern God’s will as they consider taking on the role of elder.

    “But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”

   Matthew 6:33

    Over the past few years our church has grown immensely. With the launching of multiple campuses and a focus on getting those ministries going, we have deferred some housekeeping at our Chilliwack Campus, namely lighting, paint and sound treatments in the sanctuary. The time has come for us to replace a bunch of lighting before it dies on us completely. Consequently, we would like to remind everyone of our “Let There Be Light” fundraiser which is planned for Friday June 7th and 7pm. Please join us for a time of fun, fellowship, dessert, and an auction. There will also be an online auction beginning on June 2. If you can’t join us in person, please join us in praying that the Lord will provide for our needs, because ultimately if the Lord is not in it, we labour in vain. In any case, please join us in celebrating the 40 years of faithful ministry those old lights have seen, and looking forward to many more years of ministry under the new ones!

   To God be the glory!

   Justin Vugteveen
   - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

   ---

   Finance Update
   
   

   Stewarding God’s gifts is a significant part of leading the church. The Elders celebrated the faithfulness of those entrusted to oversee our finances, and the generosity of the congregation in support of the mission of the church. Our year to date giving has been strong exceeding the same period last year by 22%. At the same time, in keeping with our budget projections, year to date expenses reflect our commitment to ministry across the Eastern Fraser Valley. We currently have an expense to income shortfall of $111,544. This amount includes some $29,000 invested into new widows for our Lake Errock campus. Expenses continue to be monitored closely and in keeping with donations received and are well within budgetary parameters.

   

   On June 7th Central will hold our “Let There Be Light” fund raising evening with the goal of raising $160,000 to replace the antiquated lighting in the Chilliwack sanctuary and update projectors and sound proofing. It is our hope that the online and live auction portion of the evening, along with some fun games and opportunity to donate will see this practical need met. We invite you to join us for an evening of celebration, live music, and an opportunity to make a practical difference.
   
   Stewarding the resources that God provides his people is a significant part of faithful discipleship. The Elders are grateful for the faithfulness and investment of God’s people who call Central their home. Together, prioritizing the Kingdom, we have the privilege of seeing our vision of reaching the Eastern Fraser Valley become a reality. Please consider your part in our collective mission for God’s glory!

    

   ---

   ELDER'S PRAYER
   
   

   We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

   Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

   Tuesday, June 18 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
   Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

   You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

   Request Prayer

   ---

   Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
   Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

   ]]> Contrary to popular opinion, motherhood still matters. Now, to be clear, you won't find many people claiming that motherhood doesn't matter anymore, it's simply what they believe. The numbers don't lie and tell the real story of how much Canadians value children and the mothers who raise them. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=112 Wed, 15 May 2024 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/112/MotherhoodStillMatters

   Contrary to popular opinion, motherhood still matters. Now, to be clear, you won’t find many people claiming that motherhood doesn’t matter anymore, it’s simply what they believe. The numbers don’t lie and tell the real story of how much Canadians value children and the mothers who raise them.

   MOTHERHOOD BY THE NUMBERS

   1971 was the last year that replacement-level fertility was reached (2.1 children) in Canada; meaning that couples, on average, had reproduced enough children to replace themselves. That number was roughly 6.56 in 1851 and is 1.33 today nationally and 1.11 in BC — the lowest in the country. This demographical shift over the last 150 years has resulted in a transition from a country with a relatively young and growing population to an aging population, that relies on immigration for population growth.

   Our nation is simultaneously doing away with marriage. A 2017 national survey concluded that “most people no longer believe in marriage.” Simply put, we are not a country that values marriage and children. Generally speaking, our nation doesn’t believe in marriage and doesn’t want to have kids.

   "Simply put, we are not a country that values marriage and children. Generally speaking, our nation doesn’t believe in marriage and doesn’t want to have kids."

   Famous Canadian actor, Seth Rogan, put it crassly in an interview recently, stating: “Thank God we don’t have children, we get to do whatever we want…. I don't know anyone who gets as much happiness out of their kids as we get out of our non-kids. Like, we’re… psyched all the time! We're laying in bed on Saturday mornings smoking weed, watching movies naked. If we had kids, we could not be… doing this."

   Children are inconvenient roadblocks to the individualism and autonomy that our society values so greatly. But while society might see you as The Little House On The Prairie if you’re married and have two or more children, I’m here to tell you that motherhood (and fatherhood, of course) still matters.

   In a society that doesn’t value what you do, inside of the church we value what you do; motherhood matters in the church. Even better, God values what you do. In the beginning, God creates man and woman and gives them a mandate: Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth. In other words, get married, work hard, and raise a family to the glory of God. The reason you desire these things is because God made them.

   Now, the Apostle Paul comes along in the New Testament and says that remaining single may be an even better option because your life can be single-mindedly devoted to the cause of the gospel in the world, but the Bible clearly affirms Jesus-oriented motherhood and Jesus-oriented singleness as both wonderful, God-glorifying approaches to life. Conversely, it is the me-centred approach to life that God does not value.

   THE GOD’S HONEST TRUTH ABOUT MOTHERS

   You know how much God values motherhood? He describes Himself like a mother. A lot. Before you freak out and call me a heretic, hear me out: In the creation account God says “Let us make man in our image, after our likeness” (Gen. 1:26) and then makes them male and female. It is only in the diversity and unity of male and female that the diversity and the unity of the Trinity is somehow mysteriously imprinted onto humanity.

   And then throughout the Bible God does this beautiful thing; at key moments when He wants to describe some of His key characteristics He uses the analogy of a mother. Like an eagle that rouses her chicks and hovers over her young (Deut. 32:11); a nursing mother (Isa. 49:15); a mother comforting her child (Isa. 66:13); and a mama bear (Hos. 13:8). When Jesus laments over Jerusalem He uses an analogy about motherhood (Lk. 13:34). Why? Because motherhood best represents the love of God for wayward kids.

   "...the selflessness of motherhood displays the gospel in a unique way."

   Just as mothers show us what God is like in key ways, the selflessness of motherhood displays the gospel in a unique way. Jesus put His own needs aside to tend to the needs of others. Mark 10 tells us that Jesus came not to be served but to serve (v.45), something moms model for us so poignantly. Motherhood comes with great sacrifice, suffering, and thanklessness — I think that’s why our society has recoiled from the role so dramatically — but when moms embrace it, you show us the gospel. We see Jesus in you.

   You may have never thought about it this way, but biblical motherhood serves as an apologetic (testimony, a defence of the faith) and a compelling alternative to the bankrupt radical individualism of our day.

   "...biblical motherhood serves as an apologetic...and a compelling alternative to the bankrupt radical individualism of our day."

   THE TEMPTATION FOR MOTHERS

   One of the challenges of motherhood (of which there are many!) is not to make your kids an idols. An idol is a God-substitute that you turn into your primary identity. A Christian’s identity is primarily “in Christ”. Moms love their kids so deeply and sacrificially that it's tempting to wrap up your identity in your kids and believe that you’re a success if they become a success; that you’re a somebody if they become a somebody. But that puts your value precariously up in the air, robs Jesus of His rightful place in your life (for His glory and your good) and, ironically, places a crushing weight to achieve on the children you love so much; a weight that only Jesus can handle.

   "...it's tempting to wrap up your identity in your kids and believe that you’re a success if they become a success; that you’re a somebody if they become a somebody."

   THE REST MOTHERS NEED MOST

   When your identity’s in Christ, moms, it keeps you from making too much of motherhood (idolatry) and being affected by a society that makes too little of motherhood.

   The one who rules and reigns, the one who paid the penalty for sin (when you fail and your kids fail), the one who intercedes on your behalf when you cry for help, says this: “Come to me, all you who labour and carry heavy burdens and I will give you rest” (

    

   This past Tuesday once again we met as Elders, and we have much to be grateful for. We typically start off the meeting with prayer from 6.15 to 7pm. We pray for our meeting as well as for anyone who comes in for prayer. It is a special time, and we are humbled to spend time thanking God for the many blessings we have as a church, as well as petitioning Him on behalf of the struggles many of our congregation face. We love to see people out for that in person and if that doesn’t work you can fill out a Prayer Request Form as well.

   As we reflect on Easter Services and the Baptisms and new Ministry Partners that have joined Central, we can see how God is working and it was beautiful to see through the stories of faith that were shared. On the topic of Baptism, if you have felt the prompting of the Spirit to be baptized, or maybe you're like me and were baptized as an infant and since then became a believer, and have not been baptized, we would really encourage you to come out to our next Baptism & Ministry Partnership Class on June 8 in Chilliwack or June 10 in Harrison and see what baptism and ministry partnership at Central is all about. We believe your decision to turn from sin and trust in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour is the most important decision you will ever make. Following your personal commitment to submit your life to the Lordship of Christ, an important next step in your spiritual journey is to be obedient in believer’s baptism. Similarly, we want everyone to be cared for well at Central and we believe the most effective way for that to happen is to become a ministry partner. We are excited that our next baptism will be August 22 at Harrison Lake, so you can save the date now!

   There are many exciting things happening in the months ahead. Our sixth and final Theology Night is happening on April 28th and Pastor Tyson will be teaching a Theology of Worship. We look forward to hosting a Mens Retreat & Womens Retreat in May with great speaker’s food and fellowship! Also, Freedom Session Grad is happening April 25th at Central and over 50 people will be witnessing to God's grace in their lives in the past twenty-eight weeks. Pastor Eldon and I were blessed to be able to host the ministry at Sardis Fellowship Baptist Church and people from 9 different churches including many from Central will be graduating. 

   As we come into spring, we are so grateful for all the faithful service that happens week in and week out in all areas of our church. It takes a lot of people doing a lot of serving to fulfill our mission to reach all of the eastern Fraser Valley with the Gospel. As we go about that mission our prayer for you is from Numbers 6:24-26 “The LORD bless you and keep you; The LORD make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; The LORD lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace.

   Gary Baars
   - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

   ---

   Finance Update
   
   

   As part of their leadership oversight, the elders received and reviewed the finances of the church. They are encouraged by the strong commitment of the congregation to the mission of Central as evidenced in giving to our mission. Our year to date giving sits 21% ahead of the same period last year. To the end of March general giving is $560,996.  Two significant events, the Marriage Retreat and the Mexico Mission, also evidenced our commitment to investing in disciples with both events being strongly supported and within budget parameters. Expenses are being managed well with maintenance costs slightly higher than anticipated due to winter conditions and the need to invest in snow clearing and parking lot safety.

   The elders received and approved recommendations from the Stewardship Committee with regards to our signing authority document.  These changes simply reflect our current practice but have now been placed into policy. In addition, two recommendations, one regarding e-transfers, and another regarding accounting records were approved.

   

   The elders received a detailed quotation for the replacement of lighting in the Chilliwack sanctuary. The current lights are 40 years old and no longer function in a helpful way and finding bulbs is problematic. A lightning strike late last Fall caused several key pieces of equipment to malfunction and short-circuited other lights. Antiquated stage lighting, also effected by the lightning strike, are in need of replacement. The elders approved a fund-raising event to cover the cost of replacing the sanctuary and stage lighting, with the hopes of also replacing the aging projectors and some acoustic treatment. It is hoped that we will raise $160,000 cover the cost of a complete project, with a $125,000 being the goal for lighting alone. Watch for details of this event that will soon be finalized.

   Giving to the benevolent fund continues to be strong. Funds donated to this account are used to help with practical needs, counselling, and community services. Seed money to start the Lake Errock food bank, invested from the benevolent fund, and partnership with the Salvation Army ensures that the benevolent fund is used to affect a practical difference in the lives of people in Central and the communities we serve. Thank you for your generosity to help others.

   The elder encourage you to continue in your faithfulness to the Lord through investing in the Kingdom work of the church. It is our conviction that we are called to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley with the Gospel. It is our joy to witness the church as a whole embrace this call.
    

   ---

   ELDER'S PRAYER
   
   

   We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

   Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

   Tuesday, June 18 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
   Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

   You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

   Request Prayer

   ---

   Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
   Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

   ]]> What an incredible inheritance is awaiting us. In these days leading up to good Friday and Easter, we commemorate the price Jesus paid on our behalf and how he conquered death by being raised from the grave, so we can inherit this eternal bliss. But even, apart from the future bliss, we already have many blessing to enjoy in the present. Not the least the opportunity to meet and worship with other believers and serve each other within the body of Christ. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=104 Tue, 19 Mar 2024 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/104/EldersUpdateMarch2024

   Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to his great mercy, he has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled and unfading, kept in heaven for you, who by God’s power are being guarded through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.

   1 Peter 1: 3-5

   What an incredible inheritance is awaiting us. In these days leading up to good Friday and Easter, we commemorate the price Jesus paid on our behalf and how he conquered death by being raised from the grave, so we can inherit this eternal bliss. But even, apart from the future bliss, we already have many blessing to enjoy in the present. Not the least the opportunity to meet and worship with other believers and serve each other within the body of Christ.

   We praise God for the evidence of His ongoing work among us. In a society where many churches are closing their doors, Central is facing the challenge of growth to the point that we need to consider ways to increase capacity. Either in space or through an additional worship service. This is especially true at the Chilliwack Campus. But we see the fruits of God’s work at the other campuses as well. We are thankful that Lake Errock has a kid’s ministry up and running every second week. A core Life Group has also been meeting there for almost a year now. The Alpha course in Harrison has been steadily attended by up to 25 people. Some of those attending were new to the Gospel message. The Agassiz campus has seen increasing community engagement, leading to invitations to the Sunday services. The setup of the hall has also been modified to be more inviting to attendees to linger after the service and engage with newcomers, an opportunity many are making use of. In addition, 42 volunteers have accepted the invitation from Seabird Island to assist in providing weekly community dinners on Seabird Island, starting in April.  We are thankful the Promontory Campus were able to secure the school building for a Good Friday Service. Let it fill us with humility and acknowledge it as God’s doing. “Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain”. ^{(Psalm 127:1)}. Chilliwack and Harrison will also be holding Good Friday services.

   We look back at the annual AGM on March 4th. as an evening of praise and worship. It was well attended and the opportunity to direct questions to the Elders was well used. A reason for praise was the review of the financial statements and budget. God has created a willingness among us to provide financial support for the ministry of Central, so that we were able to close 2023 with a small surplus.  It was a blessed and edifying evening, and we thank God for the evidence of Christian unity within the Church.

   At our recent meeting the elders took some time to explore God’s word on the topic of Church Discipline. It is the elders’ desire to be faithful to the words of Jesus, as spoken in Matthew 18 as well as several other scripture passages. We are certain that, following the example of Jesus himself, discipline is not so much punitive in nature as it is restorative. We all have sinned and need his forgiving grace daily. If someone among us falls, we need to seek to correct and restore in love and compassion. The Elders ask for your prayers to receive wisdom, also in this responsibility placed upon them.

   And lastly, we thank God for the seven individuals who have expressed their desire to surrender their lives to Jesus and have requested to be baptized on Easter Sunday. Five in Chilliwack and two at the Promontory Campus. Let us rejoice with them and surround these new brothers and sisters with love and support in their Christian walk.

   We delight in the goodness of God and look forward to celebrating the death and resurrection of our Lord and Savior this weekend with you all. All things the Lord willing.

   Jim Devisser
   - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

   ---

   Finance Update
   
   

   The Elders received word that giving year to date to the end of February was strong with $347,138.00 received through donations. This amount is up over the same period last year by 24%. We thank God for the faithfulness of his people in providing financially towards our mission. It was noted that expenses across all categories are well below budget targets with two exceptions: Missions and Campus Community. These categories, the Mexico Mission and Marriage retreat, while appearing overspent on the balance sheet are in a slight surplus when ministry income is calculated.  We currently are running an overall a year-to-date shortfall of income to expense of $99,015.

   

   The elders discussed the implications of a significant capital expense needed for the Chilliwack campus. Sanctuary lights dating back to the late ’80 that are failing, and faulty control boards due to a lightning strike last year, will require a significant capital investment to update the system to serve us for the next decade. In addition, the need to refit windows in Lake Errock that are leaking will require that we raise funds for these capital investments. Plans are in place to get quotes for these projects and then to determine the best path forward to address these practical needs.

   The Elders encourage you to prayerfully consider your part in our mission to see the Eastern Fraser Valley transformed by the Gospel. We celebrate your continued partnership in the work we are doing across our five campuses and look forward to celebrating Holy Week, and the opportunity to share the good news of Jesus.

    

   ---

   ELDER'S PRAYER
   
   

   We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

   Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

   Tuesday, April 16 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
   Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

   You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

   Request Prayer

   ---

   Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
   Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

   ]]> When we take the time to reflect on what God has done, we cannot help but be driven towards anticipation of what He will continue to do. We begin to get excited about the year ahead and ponder "If God did such wonderful things last year...what might he do this year?" I hope that question excites you as much as it does us, because with God nothing is impossible. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=103 Tue, 20 Feb 2024 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/103/EldersUpdateFebruary2024

   I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds.

   Psalm 77:11-12

   I have been thinking about the Psalmist's words as the rhythms of the year brings us back to the seasons of Lent and annual general meeting. The dissonance between the deeply spiritual discipline of fasting and the pragmatic nature of financial statements makes the previous sentence rather odd. Yet both Lent and AGM drive us towards intentional reflection on what God has done and will continue to do.
   
   Lent provides us the opportunity to intentionally put aside what is good to remember what is great. We deprive ourselves of good gifts (food, music, entertainment) in order to bring awareness to the coming darkness of Good Friday and in so doing, we remind ourselves of the miraculous gift of grace God extended to us. As the Psalmist would say, I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds.
   
   While Lent drives us towards remembering the mighty works of God in the past, the rhythm of gathering for an annual general meeting drives us to remember what God continues to do, through us, this very year. We have the opportunity to join the cadence of Scripture and intentionally remember and celebrate what God has done through Central and joyfully praise Him for His faithfulness. We can celebrate things like:

   • 1 year of ministry in Harrison
   • 10 years of ministry in Agassiz
   • A vibrant youth ministry
   • A kids ministry focussed on teaching big theological truths
   • Theologically rich teaching
   • Faithful volunteers
   • Meaningful community impact
   • Life changing benevolent intervention
   • A gifted and passionate pastoral team
   • And yes…even balanced books and amending by-laws.

   When we take the time to reflect on what God has done, we cannot help but be driven towards anticipation of what He will continue to do. We begin to get excited about the year ahead and ponder “If God did such wonderful things last year…what might he do this year?” I hope that question excites you as much as it does us, because with God nothing is impossible.

   Jayeson Wall
   - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

   ---

   Finance Update
   
   

   The Elders received an update of the financial activities for January 2024. Giving for the first month was strong trending 7% up over the previous year. Also higher than the previous year, Ministry Income saw a significant increase due to the Marriage Retreat and the upcoming Youth Mexico mission. While expenses were in line with our budget, except for a 2023 payment for insurance, significant pre-payment of expenses for the marriage retreat and youth Mexico mission (airline tickets and a deposit), left us with an overall monthly shortfall of $93,802.

   The Elders were encouraged by the strong year end giving for 2023 and grateful for the stewardship of funds given by our ministry team. It was noted that our overall budget for this coming year reflects ministry in five locations and includes significant rentals in two campuses and the maintenance and upkeep of three buildings.  As we press into another ministry year you are encouraged to consider your part in helping Central fulfill its vision of reaching the Eastern Fraser Valley with the Gospel. Thank you for your faithful and continued support of our ministries. We trust God for provision according to his plans.

    

   ---

   ELDER'S PRAYER
   
   

   We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

   Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

   Tuesday, March 19 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
   Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

   You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

   Request Prayer

   ---

   Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
   Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

   ]]> he head of Central Community Church is Jesus Christ. As a church, we strive to be faithful to Jesus and live out His purposes in our community and world. On a practical level, Jesus gifts and calls individuals to give leadership to His church. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=102 Sun, 11 Feb 2024 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/102/ElderNominations2024

   The head of Central Community Church is Jesus Christ. As a church, we strive to be faithful to Jesus and live out His purposes in our community and world.

   On a practical level, Jesus gifts and calls individuals to give leadership to His church. The New Testament is clear that the church is to be led under the oversight and watchful care of godly leaders. Their authority is expressed in servant leadership, not in “lording over” those placed in their charge, and they are responsible for the spiritual life and health of the church. The leaders are members of the church who are gifted, discerned and commissioned to give direction, oversight and care. At Central, we are elder led. They give governing oversight and commission pastors to give leadership and oversight in specific ministry areas.

   Currently our Elders consist of eleven individuals who were nominated and found to meet the biblical requirements for the office of Eldership, as well as the two pastors of the Pastoral Leadership Team – our Lead Pastor and Executive Pastor. It is our hope to add to the current Elder team and continue a rotational term of office. We are requesting that you be in prayer about those God would have join Central’s Elders, and we invite you to nominate godly men that you believe possess the spiritual gift of leadership and fulfill the biblical qualifications of an Elder. Prayerfully consider nominating an Elder candidate you believe fulfills the qualities set out in the Bible for church leadership; to nominate a candidate, please complete the online nomination form below. Paper copies of the nomination form are available at each campus welcome desk and the central front office.

   Nominations will be accepted until Sunday, March 3; please submit your nominations before then. The Discernment Team and current Elders will make recommendations for new Elders in May 2024.

   We appreciate your prayers as we begin this process.

   On the journey with you,

   Alf Wiebe
   On behalf of the Elders

   
   Click here to read about the Elder Role
   Click here to read about the Term of Service
   Click here to read about the Selection Process

    
   Online Nomination Form

    

   ---

   
   ROLE OF THE ELDERS

   Elders are to use their wisdom, discernment and shepherding gifts to ensure that the church remains on “true north” biblically. They are the “keepers of the vision” and, as such, lead the church in major decision-making and strategic initiatives. In this regard they will:

   • set the overall philosophy, vision and direction for the church in a context of prayer and Scripture. ^{(Acts 6:4)}
   • ensure that we are effectively achieving our purpose of leading people to be authentic followers of Jesus - always helping people take the next step with Him. ^{(Acts 20:28)}
   • ensure that the body is being fed through insightful and accurate biblical teaching. They determine what are the major issues or essentials for Central to uphold, while avoiding needless controversy over minor issues. ^{(Titus 1:9)}
   • ensure that the church is protected from harmful influences by confronting those who are contradicting biblical truth or who are continuing in patterns of sinful behaviours. In doing so, they are to keep closing potential entrances for Satan so that the truth of Christ will remain credible to both the congregation and the community. ^{(Matthew 18:15-17)}
   • ensure that the life of the church is being well managed with the assistance of other competent and godly leaders. As legal directors for the church, they oversee legal and financial matters, and set church management policy. Our legal documents (Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws) detail their governance duties.

   _{| TOP OF PAGE |}

   ---

   
   TERM OF SERVICE INFORMATION

   General Principles:
   Scripture offers no indication of a fixed term for leaders within the church. At Central, two principles guide our thinking with regard to the term of Elders: the importance of stability and the need for fresh perspectives. With these two principles in mind, Central practices a rotational leadership term. Desiring to build the Elder team to twelve members, each year, Central will plan to add 1-2 new members to the Elder Team. Once the establishment of a team of twelve is achieved, those that have served a maximum of six years will step down, unless otherwise requested. This vacancy will allow new members to be added to the Elder team, fulfilling the fresh perspective principle. The process for adding new Elders commences in January or February and culminates in a time of affirmation from the congregation following the selection process, with new Elders beginning their term June 1st of each year.

   Specific Term:
   Each Elder is commissioned to serve a six-year term of office. Should a team member leave office before completing their six-year term, a new member will be brought on to replace the leaving member and complete the remainder of that term. After completing a term of leadership, a person is encouraged to take a one-year leadership sabbatical, allowing for a time of refreshing. Following this sabbatical, that person is eligible for nomination to the Elder team again. As with all policies, this process can be suspended, with Elder approval, if deemed in the best interest of the church.

   _{| TOP OF PAGE |}

   ---

   
   ELDER SELECTION

   Scripture gives evidence of leaders being appointed by the founders of the church. By this example it is implied that the existing spiritual leadership of a church be intimately involved in the process of selecting leaders to ensure selection based on spiritual, rather than superficial qualifications.

   Process for Selection:

   1. The existing leaders shall appoint a Discernment Team (“DT”) consisting of three participating members. One will be from the Elder team, one from the Pastoral Leadership Team and one from the congregation at large. For the purpose of order, the DT shall select one member of their team to be chairman.
   2. The congregation shall be provided with]]> Well it is always exciting to begin a New Year! If you made any resolutions, studies would suggest the majority of us have already failed to fulfill them. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=101 Tue, 16 Jan 2024 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/101/EldersUpdateJanuary2024

      Well it is always exciting to begin a New Year!  If you made any resolutions, studies would suggest the majority of us have already failed to fulfill them.

      Thankfully, God is far more trustworthy and reliable than we are.

      Our first monthly meeting of the year began with the Deacons joining for a time of prayer and sharing an update in each of their ministry areas.  We are so blessed to have faithful Christians leading teams of people ensuring the work of the church gets done. 

      Setting up our Promontory and Agassiz campuses each Sunday happens because deacons like Jacob Deacon, lead early morning teams to transition stage, sound equipment, chairs, etc from trailers and storage rooms to transform mundane space into effective ministry areas. 

      I loved hearing the joyful update from Willetta, our deacon of food services who loves people more than food.

      Our sound tech Deacons, Mike, Shane and Andy are excited to ensure the sound and tech requirements at each Campus are reliable and professional. 

      Laura, our Deacon overseeing weekly financial giving and Martha, leading people in the discipline of prayer and providing care, also shared the joy they find in leading people in these respective ministries.

      There are so many more ministries across our campuses.  Each of these are essential to effectively communicate the Gospel and the mission God has called Central to. 

      If you are looking for an area to serve please apply on the serve page of our website, reach out to one of our ministry leaders, or contact the office for information.

      Huge thank you in supporting our Vision financially!

      The 2023 fiscal year finished strong. 

      We praise God for the record number of people who were baptized, attended equipping seminars, Bible studies or even the growing number who attend our regular weekly services.

      One evidence of God working in our hearts, freeing us to worship Him more fully, is through the financial support of His people to the local church.

      If you aren’t yet giving consistently and sacrificially, I ask you to prayerfully consider if this should change.

      Our marriage retreat happening in a week still has some opportunity to participate, so don’t delay if you wish to attend.

      Alpha Courses, Theology Nights, Baptism & Ministry Partnership classes as well as a Worship Night are just a few of the opportunities to engage your faith in the life of the local church coming up.  All the information you need can be found on our website and on social media.

      Mark your calendar on March 3, 2024 for our Annual General Meeting. This will be a great evening of celebration for this past year and looking expectantly at what God has for our future.

      We, the Elders of Central, are blown away with the healthy dialogue and unity within Central.  This is absolutely a gift from God because we have differences of opinion as all of you do as well.  We aren’t perfect, you aren’t perfect, Central isn’t perfect.  Let us retain humility with one another and humility before our perfect God. 

      By God’s grace 2024 is going to be an amazing year!

       

      Ernie Chartlon
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      Finance Update
      
      

      Finance Update from the Elders - The Elders reviewed the finances, both giving and expenses, for the year end 2023. They are encouraged to report that donations towards our collective mission of reaching the Eastern Fraser Valley with the Gospel were at an all time high. In the month of December alone $477,176 was received. The elders celebrate that our total income, including donations, exceeded our expenses by $14,832. For the 2023 calendar year we received $2,477,065 in donations, up almost 15% over the previous year. While we did not meet our budgeted giving target of $2,619,643, expenses as a whole are below projections. The Elders noted that support from Northview and the BC Conference to cover the start up costs of the Harrison campus were concluded at the end of the year. This means that the additional support of $65,000 will now be Central’s sole responsibility.
      

      It was noted that the Benevolent fund continues to receive strong support. In 2023 Central was able to help people from the church and community with $39,969 to cover practical needs, backpacks of hope, and relational support. We are grateful for your continued investment into the lives of those who require assistance.
      
      The Elders are grateful to the Lord for his faithfulness through you. Your giving to the Kingdom allows Central to serve Jesus faithfully. As we launch into another calendar and budget year please consider your part in supporting the ministries and mission of Central through your giving, time, and engagement.

       

      ---

      ELDER'S PRAYER
      
      

      We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

      Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

      Tuesday, February 20 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
      Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

      You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

      Request Prayer

      ---

      Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
      Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

      ]]> This month's elders meeting began with our much-anticipated bi-annual pastor-elder dinner. It is a wonderful opportunity to gather and break bread with our pastors outside the hustle and bustle of ministry. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=100 Tue, 19 Dec 2023 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/100/EldersUpdateDecember2023

      As custom the elders started with a time of prayer for the congregation. There are many needs and complicated dynamics which we lifted up in prayer. But there were also many things to be thankful for.

      After a time of prayer the elders took some time to connect and share some snacks and stories. It was good to take a more casual approach to the beginning of our meeting as we feel that it is important to build deeper connections with each other which then will also make us a better team.

      We took time to intentionally pray for each other after which we spent time on the topic of who we are as elders, based on a book called Elders. We recognize that we are a plurality. There is not one holder of power but as an elder-led church we hold each other accountable. Any one of us can leave or be absent without it causing a void as a leadership team, recognizing that our ultimate leader is Jesus.

      There are so many things to be thankful for. We recognized the many things God is doing in our church. To mention a few:

      • Hundreds of Backpacks of Hope were filled
      • 80+ Christmas hampers were built and handed out
      • Two weeks ago a community youth committed their life to Jesus
      • 7 baptisms and 16 new Ministry Partners!
      • The 300 leaders and students that gathered to celebrate Christmas
      • Three recent Christmas meals at Kent prison were a great success
      • Laughing all the Way Comedy Night - Praise God for a great, sold out night where unbelievers heard the Gospel and were pointed to our Christmas Eve service and Alpha

      It is without question that God is working in our church and we praise Him for the work He is doing.

      It being the end of the year we also reviewed the budget for 2024. This has proven to be a difficult topic at times for the elders. We have a significant shortfall to the budget in 2023 (although at the time of the meeting we hope and pray for more generosity at Christmas) and yet we were able to cover all expenses. And we continue to feel called to the greater mission: We aim to see the entire eastern Fraser Valley transformed by the Gospel for the glory of God and good of all people. So if you are reading this, ask yourself and prayerfully consider what is asked of you with your finances. I am trying hard to sound as diplomatic as I can, but what I really mean to say is; if you are able, dig a little deeper and write a bigger cheque.

      The elders affirmed the 2024 budget, which will be presented to our ministry partners at our AGM. The elders also had a discussion about church discipline. This is a very sensitive subject, and we earnestly desire to follow God's word in how to approach this with love and care, with a mission of rescue.

      We look forward to 2024 and pray that God continues to do mighty work in our church where we see growth not just in numbers, but in lives saved and growth in faith.

       

      Maarten Van Ruitenburg
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      Finance Update
      
      

      The Elders received a financial report to the end of November noting that the congregation continues to faithfully follow Jesus and provide for the ministry of the church. Year to date donations of $2,019,263 exceeds year to date giving during the same period last year by 15%. It was noted that ministry expenses continue to be in line with budget projections and are below budgeted allocations. Exceptions to this rule are found primarily in mortgage costs due to increased interest rates, an increase in utility costs, and administrative costs associated with banking fees. As of the end of November we are experiencing a deficit when comparing income to expenses of $220,733. If we follow historical giving patterns, where December is the largest giving month of the year, we anticipate covering all of our expenses. At this point we require $492,000 to reach our 2023 budget goal.   

      

      The Elders received and reviewed the proposed budget for 2024 with a goal of holding the tension between faith and good stewardship in mind. Increases in the budget reflect inflationary considerations and include some strategic plans. These include provision for the marriage retreat in January, outreach initiatives on Seabird Island, Alpha in across three campuses, the ending of financial subsidy from Northview church for our Harrison campus, and an allotment for increased mortgage costs. In keeping with our determination to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley with the Gospel, which includes robust ministries in each of our five campuses, staffing continues to be one of the largest budget categories. We are grateful for God’s provision of faithful and gifted individuals who provide exceptional ministry in each campus, even as we recognize our commitment to this ministry model puts pressure on our budget. Fruit across all of our campuses encourages us to press on with our ministry model even as we strive to catch up from capital investments in our campuses.
      

      As we finish off another calendar year, and consider how to embrace the opportunity God has for us in 2024, the Elders encourage you to be faithful stewards of the resources God has entrusted to you. Recognizing that we are in tight financial times, please consider your part in the church’s mission to reach people with the Gospel. Thank you for your faithfulness to Jesus and the church. 
      
      

      ---

      ELDER'S PRAYER
      
      

      We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

      Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

      Tuesday, January 16 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
      Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

      You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

      Request Prayer

      ---

      Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
      Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

      ]]> This month's elders meeting began with our much-anticipated bi-annual pastor-elder dinner. It is a wonderful opportunity to gather and break bread with our pastors outside the hustle and bustle of ministry. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=99 Mon, 20 Nov 2023 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/99/EldersUpdateNovember2023

      This month’s elders meeting began with our much-anticipated bi-annual pastor-elder dinner. It is a wonderful opportunity to gather and break bread with our pastors outside the hustle and bustle of ministry. We got to catch up on life and ministry, enjoy great food together, and we ended the meal in a time of prayer, taking time to pray for each individual pastor both personally and for their ministry. What a privilege it is to stand alongside such faithful and genuine men and women of God. We as elders feel truly blessed to have the pastoral team that we do here at Central! Please continue to encourage our pastors and lift them and their families up in prayer as they continue to do the work that God has called them to.

      With November half over already, we look forward to the Advent season just a couple weeks away. Pastor Matt updated the Elders on the plan for our Advent sermon series, and I must say I am intrigued. The title of the series is ‘Cosmic Christmas’ and will be based on the classic Christmas story found in Revelation 12… yes you heard that right, a Christmas series out of the book of Revelation! Probably not the first place most of us would look, but we are excited to see what God’s word has in store for us as we anticipate celebrating the incarnation of our Lord.

      We are pleased to announce that Central will be putting on a Marriage Retreat this winter! The retreat will be in Harrison Hot Springs on January 26-27, and feature guest speaker Josh Butler. We believe that Christian marriage is meant to be a reflection of Christ and his church (Ephesians 5), thus we want to build up the marriages in our church to bear that image well. Please join us for a time of refreshment, learning, and getting away from the kids for a night! Registration opens soon.

      Elder’s meetings inevitably have a portion dedicated to the finances of the church. This prompts discussion about how to communicate well the joy of giving without sounding like we’re begging for money. We believe that giving sacrificially of our finances is a form of worship, and a way of acknowledging that everything we have belongs to God. Our motivation to give should not come from a place of guilt or sense of duty to keep the lights on, rather from a heart posture of humbly submitting the financial sphere of our lives to God. I know I am probably preaching to the choir with those who are reading this, so please don’t hear this as a call for more money; I am simply giving a summary of our conversation. The Lord has provided for us year after year, and we are humbled and grateful for his faithfulness. Please join us in thanking God for his provision and praying that he would continue the work he has started in us.

      Justin Vugteveen
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      Finance Update
      
      

      The Elders received the year-to-date financial update noting that giving in October was stronger than anticipated. They were encouraged to hear that faithfulness in giving continues to be strong, reflecting the heart of the congregation to honour Jesus and the mission he has for us.  A robust discussion was had after looking at the historical financial data, principles and practices for crafting the budget, and giving statistics. It was noted that creating a budget is more about putting feet to our faith, and resourcing our mission to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley with the Gospel, than it is about numbers. The topics of faith and stewardship and the tension both bring to the equation allowed the elders to share perspectives and agree that being faithful to the resources God provides, and embracing the opportunities he has placed before us, is of paramount importance. It was noted that while our budget is unified and presented as a whole, it actually reflects the budget for five churches. Having received recommendations from the Stewardship Team, a group of individuals from the congregation with financial acumen who evaluate the budget and financial practices, the elders determined to revisit the budget at their December meeting.

      To the end of October, Central was blessed to experience a 13% increase in donations over the previous year (this does not include the Above and Beyond campaign that was held in 2022). As is true across the board, costs associate with operations, especially as related to our mortgage, continue to leave us in a deficit situation. Ministry expenses are well below budgeted allowances, with a commitment to staff our five campuses for ministry effectiveness being one of our largest expense categories. It was noted that giving is strong across the campuses and as expected our new campus and work in Lake Errock have a significant impact on the budget as a whole.  That said, ministry fruit in both locations evidences the work of the Holy Spirit and we are grateful to the Lord for the opportunity to invest in these newer ventures.

      

      As we come to the end of the calendar and fiscal year, the elders noted that a year to date giving statement will be sent via email to all regular donors so they can be informed of their donation status. The elders encourage you to be faithful to Jesus in all aspects of your life. Giving to the mission and ministry of the church reflects one aspect of a heart of gratitude for the saving work of Jesus. Please consider your part as we strive to finish the year well. Join us in thanking God for the fruit we have experienced this year and pray for the opportunities that he has in store for us going forward.
      
      

      ---

      ELDER'S PRAYER
      
      

      We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

      Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

      Tuesday, December 19 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
      Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

      You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

      Request Prayer

      ---

      Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
      Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

      ]]> Is it too early to be talking about Christmas? To me, it feels like summer was just yesterday and any talk of Christmas is miles away. Yet, the reality is Christmas is around the corner and discussion on Advent, Christmas Eve services and everything surrounding the celebration of the birth of Christ was in full swing at our meeting this month. That might cause you as much consternation as it did me, but it also means that the ministry year is in full swing, and we have things to celebrate as a church! https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=98 Tue, 24 Oct 2023 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/98/EldersUpdateOctober2023

      Is it too early to be talking about Christmas? To me, it feels like summer was just yesterday and any talk of Christmas is miles away. Yet, the reality is Christmas is around the corner and discussion on Advent, Christmas Eve services and everything surrounding the celebration of the birth of Christ was in full swing at our meeting this month. That might cause you as much consternation as it did me, but it also means that the ministry year is in full swing, and we have things to celebrate as a church!
      
      We as Elders were celebrating the faithfulness of God through the ministries across our campuses. Youth ministry continues to thrive with huge attendance numbers and faithful leaders to build into the next generation. Children’s ministry continues to see record volunteer involvement and investment (a testament to your willingness to get your hands dirty and serve!). The Fear and Anxiety workshop is an example of intentional discipleship and yet is also drawing people from all walks of life and is turning into a tool for evangelism. Only God could do that! Young Adults ministry is thriving. Men’s ministry continues to effectively create meaningful and authentic community while studying the “Hall of Faith” in Hebrews 11. We have opportunities to grow in our understanding of God with our theology nights and then turn and worship Him for who He is with intentional community Worship. We can celebrate a thriving church community!
      
      Not only can we celebrate these amazing internal ministries, but we can celebrate the engagement with community outside the church. We prayerfully anticipate what God is building in Lake Errock with the intentional community presence and opportunity to use the building to support the community. We pray our relationship with Seabird Island continues to flourish and grants us the opportunity to bring Gospel grace and light into this community. We celebrate the community involvement in Harrison and the impact of faithful gospel presence is having. On and on the faithfulness of God is on full display and this is only scratching the surface to the myriad of conversations, relationships, and opportunities pastors and ministry partners engage in as we pursue ministry together.
      
      Yet, with all of this to celebrate the greatest privilege we have as Elders is to pray for and to pray with our church. Each month we spend the first hour of our meeting on our knees (as much as possible) seeking God for wisdom, discernment, protection, provision, and ultimately His presence in the ministry here at Central. We have the privilege to lift those who are suffering and struggling and bring them to the throne of Grace. It is a time of great privilege and awe as we intentionally practice what it means to be spiritual leaders in the place God has called us. All of us struggle and suffer. All of us battle sin and wrestle with God and His word to us. I would encourage you to come to our next meeting and let’s pray and seek His face together in our time of need!
      
      October also means we as Elders turn our attention more intentionally toward what ministry God is calling us to in the year ahead and discerning how to budget for those ministry opportunities. No decisions are made at this point, but we had a robust discussion on initial budgets and strategies for meeting the financial requirements ahead. We are committed to prayerfully consider and discern what financial commitment God is calling us to this next year and would ask that you pray along with us for discernment, wisdom, and faith to trust Him in uncertain times.
      
      When reflecting on what has been accomplish so far this ministry year I am reminded of the words of Paul to the Philippians in Philippians 1:3:

      I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, ⁴ always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, 5 because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. ⁶ And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.

      We, as Elders, are privileged to serve alongside you for the glory of God and good of all people. 

      Jayeson Wall
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      Finance Update
      
      

      The Elders received a year-to-date finance update ending Sept 30, 2023. It was noted that general giving continues to be strong and is a full 9% higher than the same period last year at $1,583,901. It was noted that last year our Above and Beyond campaign saw an additional $106,739 given in September.  Continued support from Northview and the BCMB Conference, above our general giving, for our Harrison campus has helped with costs associated with the start up.

      Ministry expenses continue to be monitored closely with all ministry categories well below budget allowances. Not a surprize, mortgage interest is our single largest expense increase with $108,045 being spent in this area compared to $60,641 last year. While expenses are well below budget allotments, we continue to experience a shortfall in giving when compared to expenses. In some measure this follows Central’s financial pattern wherein a full 30 percent of the giving is received within the last three months. That said, our YTD shortfall of $198,608 is concerning.  The Elders instructed the ministry team to continue to monitor expenses closely and a moratorium has been placed on capital expenses for the time being.

      

      A preliminary budget for 2024 was discussed at some length noting that while we have a unified budget, we are funding the costs for five churches. An update will be given to the campuses to allow them to see a comparison between operational income versus expense. The Elders have asked that budget considerations take into account our vision and mission, thereby requiring a significant faith component, and the practical aspects of fiscal responsibility. It was noted that the Stewardship Team, a group of individuals from the congregation charged with providing the Elders with financial advice, will receive a preliminary draft of the budget at the end of October.

      The Elders are grateful for God’s provision through the Central congregation. Faithful support of our vision to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley with the Gospel has allowed us to witness God moving in the hearts and lives of many individuals. Prayerfully consider your part in supporting the ministries of Central. Giving is an integral part of worship.

      ---

      ELDER'S PRAYER
      
      

      We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

      Central's Elders invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

      Tuesday, December 19 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
      Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

      You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

      Request Prayer

      ---

      Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
      Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

      ]]> Recently I was talking to my daughter and she asked me in all seriousness, "why do men have it so much easier than women?" In that moment as a millennial mom it was like a rush of my own life history about the subject filled my mind all at once. If I was in a movie, a foggy sepia-toned reel of my own storied past would appear, overlaid with the song "Wannabe" by Spice Girls. I didn't know how to respond to my daughter, all I knew is that I wanted to agree with her. Yet I questioned my own intentions with that agreement. There's no question that the road from girlhood to womanhood is bumpy. And it doesn't really get easier with time. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=97 Thu, 12 Oct 2023 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/97/TheTerrorAndBeautyOfBeingAWoman

      "It is literally impossible to be a woman"~ Gloria (America Ferrera - The Barbie movie)

      Recently I was talking to my daughter and she asked me in all seriousness, "why do men have it so much easier than women?" In that moment as a millennial mom it was like a rush of my own life history about the subject filled my mind all at once. If I was in a movie, a foggy sepia-toned reel of my own storied past would appear, overlaid with the song "Wannabe" by Spice Girls. I didn't know how to respond to my daughter, all I knew is that I wanted to agree with her. Yet I questioned my own intentions with that agreement. There's no question that the road from girlhood to womanhood is bumpy. And it doesn't really get easier with time.

      Which left me wondering, is it truly harder to be a woman?

      As a female I feel the pangs of conflict that rage inside about my own gender in a world so confused about it's troubles. And although this summer has seemed to prove there is a surge of renewed girl-power with the wild success of the Barbie movie and the Billion dollar Taylor Swift and Beyonce concert tours, I still think most of us women aren't really thriving in our own bodies. And even worse, I don't think we're passing on a beautiful view of what it means to be a woman to the next generation of daughters.

      How womanhood is viewed has changed over the last bunch of decades. And understandably so. Gone are the days of the 50's housewife in a dress and pearls, tending to all the home and children needs with a smile and no complaint. To some this is a shame, to others its good progress. Whatever your ideological proclivity, there has been complexity to this history. There was a time when women weren't deemed as very important unless they were a wife and a mother. Then the mark of a great woman became about her dedication to her career. Now it seems we must do it all in order to have any value and cache in society. If you're not a wife, what's wrong with you? If you're not a mother, you must not be fulfilled. If you're not a career woman, you're intelligence is in question. And judgements about our worth are shared freely all around us.

      There has been much liberation over the years for women when it comes to these things. Which is progress that should be embraced by Christians, given the fact that our favourite lady in Proverbs 31 is the embodiment of a business woman, wife, mother and active member of society. It is also a work of the Spirit that more men are being held accountable for how they treat women both in the work place and at home. There are good conversations about mental load and work/life balance being had now more than ever. This is good progress. And more recently, women have been liberated to get brave and honest about abuse and mistreatment. And this should be encouraged.

      But, I wonder if we've also become a little too comfortable sharing our small inconveniences and discomforts and conflating them with real issues. How often do we resort to complaining about every little thing for sympathy? And then how often is this observed by the girls around us?

      Are we always the victim?

      Sadly, young girls today receive the message from us, that to live as a woman in this world is to live a brow-beaten life forever. This aggressive narrative of female turmoil has truth to it of course, but what effect is it having on the young people being raised today? And is it the whole story? In recent years there have been studies showing a surge in young women desiring to change their gender. This is a trend particularly among girls wanting to become boys. What is happening? Of course there are many complex reasons for this, but one motivation is the growing dread they have of being an oppressed woman trapped in a body that gives them terrible pain forever. They believe it would just be easier to be a man. Where did they get this message from?

      In the Barbie movie the character Gloria, played by America Ferrera, gives an impassioned monologue about the difficulty of being a woman. Here is an edited for size version of the speech.

      You have to be thin, but not too thin. And you can never say you want to be thin. You have to say you want to be healthy, but also you have to be thin. You have to have money, but you can't ask for money because that's crass. You have to be a boss, but you can't be mean. You have to lead, but you can't squash other people's ideas. You're supposed to love being a mother, but don't talk about your kids all the damn time. You have to be a career woman but also always be looking out for other people...You have to never get old, never be rude, never show off, never be selfish, never fall down, never fail, never show fear, never get out of line. It's too hard! It's too contradictory and nobody gives you a medal or says thank you! And it turns out in fact that not only are you doing everything wrong, but also everything is your fault.

      It's a lot. And I found myself in the theatre with one of my closest friends, watching this and agreeing with most of it. As pandering and overly emotional as it was, it wasn't altogether false. And she didn't even mention periods and child birth and menopause. Or the abuse women experience verbally, p]]> The elders met again this past Tuesday night for our first meeting since the summer break. It was very nice to see each other again and there was a sense of excitement to start this fall season of ministry. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=96 Mon, 25 Sep 2023 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/96/EldersUpdateSeptember2023

      The elders met again this past Tuesday night for our first meeting since the summer break. It was very nice to see each other again and there was a sense of excitement to start this fall season of ministry.

      After a time of prayer, we began our meeting with a time of reflection on everything God has done through Central in the past few years. We recognized that God has blessed us in so many ways and we praised Him for all of our healthy campuses and the great staff that He has provided. Pastor Matt briefly summarized the history of the campuses and the elders affirmed the campus model, observing how the Holy Spirit has been at work helping the campuses to flourish. Our goal has never been to gather many campuses just for the sake of it, but rather our vision has always been to make disciples and grow God’s Kingdom throughout the eastern Fraser Valley.

      All of us elders became such by going through a detailed nomination process. We have prayed, felt God’s calling, and been affirmed by others before stepping into this role. It can be a similar process to step down from the Elder role as well. With much prayer and careful thought, Julien Garnier has decided to step down from his position as elder. Julien has served for many years and has been a blessing to all of us on the team and in the church. He is a wonderful example of a faithful elder. We thanked Julien for his service and prayed for him.

      Although many of us call it summer break, ministry was full steam ahead these past two months. Harrison Campus participated in their community’s Canada Day parade and held an open house. Each campus held a summer camp in their area and many kids in our church and communities grew in their faith. We praise God for all the opportunities to share the gospel and we trust the Holy Spirit will bring people closer to Him. Thank you to all the volunteers who made these events happen and to the generous giving by the congregation.

      A huge ministry highlight was the baptism evening held at Harrison Lake where twenty-six people declared their trust in the risen Saviour through baptism. Over two hundred people were on the beach celebrating each one as they came out of the water. There were five more people baptized at Harrison Campus. What a way to celebrate their one year anniversary as a church! We also had an additional thirteen new ministry partners this summer, making it 45 new ministry partners in all. We are overjoyed to say the least.

      

      It is exciting to see all of the ministry programs starting this fall. Whether you are a man or a woman, young or less young, there is something for you. In addition to our regular life groups, student groups, and Men’s and Women’s Bible studies, we are also excited for the Ministry internship program, Freedom Session,Theology Nights, an upcoming Worship Night, and a Fear and Anxiety workshop. We want to encourage everyone to get involved in ministries that will both serve you and you can serve in, in order to be a blessing to others. Our lives as Christians should include both being discipled and discipling others.

      Lastly, we want to thank you all for being a part of this church. We consider it a privilege and blessing to serve as your elders. Please keep us in your prayers as we work together to follow God’s Word with the Holy Spirit, to serve you all, and to do our part in building up God’s people.

      DJ Hiebert
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      Finance Update
      
      

      The Elders were encouraged to receive a finance update to the end of August.  Support for Central’s ministries has increased by 11% compared to the same period last year.  While we continue to experience a deficit of income to budget and expenses, we are on track to meet our ministry obligations. It was noted that while necessary maintenance projects continue, all capital projects have been put on hold in order to prioritize ministry. The Elders received word that the Lake Errock campus is fully operational again, the Harrison renovations are now complete, and that the exterior of the Chilliwack building was repaired and painted as a preventative measure to protect against the elements as we move into the Fall. Replacing the Sanctuary lighting in Chilliwack remains a high priority especially in light of the recent lightning storm that effected lighting control. We hope to address this in the near future.

      The Elders noted that all ministries are stewarding their resources well and that they are all well below budgeted allowances. It came as no surprise that our mortgage interest is 2.3 times higher than the same period last year, but it was also noted that our lender, the Canadian Conference of MB Churches, has reduced our mortgage rate by .75%.  This time last year we embarked on an Above and Beyond campaign. As a result, September giving numbers this year are likely going to be slightly skewed. Even so, we are confident is God’s gracious provision.

      

      Our commitment to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley with the Gospel continues to drive our stewardship of the resources God provides. Operating five campuses through a unified budget allows us to minimize the duplication of expenses (admin., capital equipment, etc.), even as it requires us to staff our campuses for ministry effectiveness.  Quarterly financial updates at the campus level allows local congregations to see their part in the bigger picture of ministry. The Elders celebrated the fruit of our investment into the Harrison campus noting that five people were baptized on the anniversary Sunday of its first year of ministry.

      In short, while we are lagging in terms of giving to budget, the Elders are grateful for the faithful and sacrificial support of the church. Our goal to fulfill our mission requires us to collectively give to the work of God in and through the church. Join us in thanking God for his provision and prayerfully consider your part in our mission together.

      ---

      ELDER'S PRAYER
      
      

      We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

      Central's Elders will meet again in September invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

      Tuesday, October 17 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
      Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

      You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

      Request Prayer

      ---

      Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
      Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

      ]]> Well Central, we're halfway through 2023 already! The school year is ending and summertime is upon us. The elders met for a final meeting before we take a break for the summer; we will resume meeting again in September. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=95 Mon, 26 Jun 2023 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/95/EldersUpdateJune2023

      Well Central, we’re halfway through 2023 already! The school year is ending and summertime is upon us. The elders met for a final meeting before we take a break for the summer; we will resume meeting again in September.

      The elders are excited to welcome Jayeson Wall and Jim Devisser to the elders team. We thank God for providing such godly men to be a part of our leadership. Please continue to pray for these men and their families as they step into this role.

      

      On June 11, the elders met at Harrison campus for a retreat day. This was a time to worship together, share a meal, pray for one another, and discuss things that were on our hearts. It was great to connect with each other in a more casual way.

      As we look back on the past month, a big highlight that stands out was our Pentecost Worship Night. What a fantastic evening of sharing a meal with our church family, worshipping together, and sharing testimonies of God’s work in our lives! A special thanks to our amazing hospitality team and worship team that facilitated such a wonderful evening.

      Following the Pentecost Worship Night, we received some feedback concerning the spiritual gift of tongues. A brief word in tongues was shared at the worship night, and since this is not a very common occurrence there were understandably questions and concerns. The elders had a robust discussion on spiritual gifts and particularly the gift of tongues. Here at Central we hold to a continuationist view, meaning we believe the miraculous gifts still exist and did not die with the apostles. In regards to the gift of tongues, we believe the utterance of tongues to be an expression of praise to God (not a revelation), and that it would more commonly occur in a private or small group setting. In a small or large group setting, it must be done in an orderly way in accordance with 1 Corinthians 14. We understand that the lack of interpretation was a point of concern for many people, and we will continue to discuss how we might improve in that area. We thank you for your patience and grace as we learn how to do this well.

      As we look ahead to the summer, there is much to be excited about. Each one of our campuses is planning to put on some kind of Summer Camp for the community. Please pray that barriers would be broken and that our communities would have hearts that are soft toward the gospel. In addition to summer camps, we have a staggering number of new ministry partners and baptisms taking the plunge this summer; it’s a good thing we have a campus next to a lake! Please pray for those who are taking this beautiful step of faith.

      That’s it! Have a fantastic summer, Central!

      Justin Vugteveen
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      Finance Update
      
      

      The following finance update shows strong giving through the month of May along with the budget year-to-date and curtailed expenses in light of the discrepancy. Over the course of the first couple of weeks in June you heard from Pastor Matt and our elders, inviting our congregation to help us make up our year-to-date shortfall of nearly $180,000. The elders feel strongly that this is not so much a plea to those who already give generously of the first fruits of your resources (Prov. 3:9) as a beautiful and costly act of worship, but more so a loving challenge to those households who have yet to give this year or give in a regular and sacrificial way. God’s provision and joy await those who simultaneously loosen their group on their resources and tighten their grip on their Saviour (1 Cor. 16:2; 2 Cor. 8:2). The elders’ goal is not your guilt but your joy because God loves a cheerful giver (2 Cor. 9:7).
      The elders would like to thank all of you who give generously as an act of worship and help us make a bigger impact in the eastern Fraser Valley with the gospel. Because of your faithful giving five distinct communities receive faithful gospel preaching, children and youth are trained up in the faith, meaningful outreach happens in each campus neighbourhood, and so much more. It is a joy and a privilege to sacrificially and effectively do gospel ministry together with you all!
      
      Have a great summer and thank you again for your regular, intentional giving toward our common mission!

      ---

      ELDER'S PRAYER
      
      

      We believe in the power of prayer. We value prayer. And we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the church and world.

      Central's Elders will meet again in September invite you to come and receive prayer in the Chilliwack Campus Sanctuary.

      Tuesday, September 19 | 6.30PM - 7.00PM
      Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

      You can also submit prayer requests using the link below.

      Request Prayer

      ---

      Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
      Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

      ]]> Whenever I speak about Central's vision, I invariably say something along the lines of "God has called us to an audacious vision; the kind of thing that makes us fall flat on our faces if God doesn't move in power." After all, if a church's vision doesn't require God's power, resources, and renown, it's probably not a vision worth having. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=94 Thu, 08 Jun 2023 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/94/FaithfulGivingAudaciousVision

      

      Whenever I speak about Central’s vision, I invariably say something along the lines of “God has called us to an audacious vision; the kind of thing that makes us fall flat on our faces if God doesn’t move in power.” After all, if a church’s vision doesn’t require God’s power, resources, and renown, it’s probably not a vision worth having.
      
      We aim to see the entire eastern Fraser Valley transformed by the gospel for the glory of God and good of all people. Audacious. I know. But God has been opening doors for us to reach further into communities in the eastern Fraser Valley in powerful ways and we have seen gospel transformation happen in every campus community. And this really is only the beginning!
      
      We are nearing the midway point of 2023 and the summer months are upon us. Summer will be filled with day camps in every one of our campus communities, youth events, a women’s retreat, and of course our weekly Sunday gatherings at every campus.
      
      Finances tend to be tight at this time of year. Giving tends to ebb and flow and finish strong in November and December. We praise God that we have been reaching our growing budget year after year and that giving is up from this time last year. Your generosity and commitment to Kingdom ministry is incredible.

      

      The reason for this message is to remind you that while giving typically lulls over the summer months, ministry and our vision of reaching people with the gospel do not. So, we are asking everyone who calls Central home to help us erase our year-to-date budget shortfall of roughly $180,000 so we can continue to fulfill the ministry we have set out on this year.

      We are asking everyone who calls Central home to help us erase our year-to-date budget shortfall of roughly $180,000.
      
      That might seem like a lot of money but it works out to about $145 per person who attended church this past Sunday or $500 per household. Those amounts may seem like a lot of money too! But while some can give more and some can give less, together we can accomplish the Kingdom work Jesus has called us to in the eastern Fraser Valley!
      
      Your Kingdom come and will be done in Lake Errock, Harrison, Promontory, Agassiz, and Chilliwack as it is in heaven.
      
      Practically speaking, a one-time gift would help us reach our $180,000 goal and would be greatly appreciated. Setting up recurring monthly giving (online or through your financial institution), if you haven’t already, would help our operations run more smoothly throughout the year. And the discipline of regular, generous giving simultaneously brings joys to the giver and fuels our mission to make disciples.
      
      We are thankful for our elders, stewardship team, and staff who oversee, provide counsel, and steward our finances with integrity. We are thankful for you who call Central home and who give toward the progress of the gospel in the eastern Fraser Valley and beyond.
      
      Together for the gospel,
      
      Matt Shantz
      Lead Pastor

       

       

      ---

      
      

      

      

      

      

      ---

      Got questions? We'd love to answer them!
      Please contact The Office - office@centralcommunity.ca

      ]]> Does the gift of tongues still happen today or has that gift ceased? What is the purpose of the gift of tongues? If someone speaks in tongues in a gathering of Christians should there be an interpreter? What if there isn't one? A word from Pastor Matt Shantz in light of our Pentecost Worship Night. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=93 Mon, 29 May 2023 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/93/TheGiftsOfTonguesAndInterpretation

      Does the gift of tongues still happen today or has that gift ceased? What is the purpose of the gift of tongues? If someone speaks in tongues in a gathering of Christians should there be an interpreter? What if there isn’t one?

      As I write this post the day after our Pentecost Worship Night I am still basking in the glory of it all. Our Sunday morning services included a sermon on Pentecost (Acts 2) as the great reversal of Babel (Genesis 11) and how the Holy Spirit that fell upon the first Christians continues to dwell in all believers today. Then we gathered in the evening to share a meal, sing God’s praise, hear testimonies of the Spirit’s work in our lives, and pray together. There was such a tangible presence of the Holy Spirit among us.

      
      The Gift of Tongues

      The Greek word translated “tongues” in english literally means “languages” and the gift of tongues is speaking in a language that the speaker otherwise does not know, whether another earthly language (Acts 2:6) or a heavenly language (1 Corinthians 13:1; 14:2).

      
      Proper Use of Spiritual Gifts

      The Apostle Paul lists many of the spiritual gifts and proper use of the gifts in 1 Corinthians 12-14. There he outlines that all spiritual gifts must be empowered “by one and the same Spirit” (1 Cor. 12:11), that they are given “for the common good” (1 Cor. 12:7), and that they are all to be used for “edification” (1 Cor. 14:26), ultimately, for the building up of the church.

      
      Theological Word of the Day: Continuationist

      One of the theological debates in the church today is whether or not the miraculous gifts (e.g. miracles, prophecy, etc.) continue to this day or have ceased. Cessationists generally believe that the miraculous gifts ceased around the time of the death of the Apostles. Continuationists believe that the miraculous gifts continue today, although to varying degrees in different times and places. Cessationists and continuationists alike agree that the non-miraculous gifts of the Spirit continue to be appointed to all believers as the Spirit wills (eg. hospitality, encouragement, evangelism, etc.). Central believes that spiritual gifts continue to be given to equip the church to carry out its ministry until Christ returns. When Paul says, “you are not lacking in any gift, as you wait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will sustain you to the end” (1 Cor. 1:7-8), he seems to be saying that gifts are given to the church for the period between the ascension of Jesus and His return. While this is our church’s theological position on gifts of the Spirit we certainly welcome into our church family those who hold a different view, recognizing that this is not a first order doctrine (salvation issue).
      
      

      
      A Word in Tongues at the Worship Night

      At one point during the open mic sharing time one of our pastors shared a word with us in tongues. Earlier in the week he reached out to me, with a sense that he should do so at the gathering, and asked if I would be okay with it. His aim was for the building up of the church and called me out of a desire for unity and to be submissive. We agreed that sharing a word in a tongue was a good thing invited by Scripture (1 Cor. 14:27, 39), that we would seek an interpretation, and if there wasn’t one, that we would refrain from utilizing the gift of tongues in the gathering, as clearly instructed in Scripture (1 Cor. 14:28).

      Do you see the tension in this? Paul says, “I want you all to speak in tongues” (1 Cor. 14:5) and “do not forbid speaking in tongues” (1 Cor. 14:39) but that “if there is no one to interpret, let each of them keep silent in church and speak to himself and to God” (1 Cor. 14:28). How do we know if there will be an interpretation? It seems that we will know when someone speaks in tongues and then we ask for an interpretation. If there is one, praise God! That prophetic word will now be edifying and for the building up of the whole congregation (1 Cor. 14:1-5). But if there is not someone to interpret we should cease any more speaking in tongues because it will not serve to edify and build up the church. When an interpreter did not come forward on Sunday night we moved on from the brief prophesying prayer in tongues.

      Interestingly, three individuals later came forward saying they had an interpretation (two at the end of the night) and one sent an email later in the evening. The one individual I talked to at the end of the evening sensed God saying “YOU” when I asked if anyone had an interpretation. That said, this was new for her and she didn't feel like she was completely clear on the word to share. Another individual said that he didn’t come forward because he felt the word was something for Central’s leaders.

      I liken yesterday evening to a toddler learning to walk or a child riding without training wheels for the first time. It’s a bit shaky but it’s the only way we learn to be faithful to Scripture and walk by the Spirit, while not quenching the Spirit! (1 Thess. 5:19-20).

      And here’s our commitment as Central’s leadership: We will follow the instructions for orderly worship outlined in Scripture, whether that be around the Lord’s Supper (1 Cor. 11), Spiritual Gifts (1 Cor. 12), Prophecy and Tongues (

      Today is Pentecost Sunday! The word “Pentecost” means "fiftieth day"—that is, the fiftieth day after Easter. It is the day Jesus, having ascended and seated at the right hand of the Father, remained faithful to his promise of sending the Holy Spirit to give birth to the church, his body on earth. From that astounding day in Jerusalem until today, the Spirit anoints the people of God to “proclaim good news to the poor . . . liberty to the captives and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those who are oppressed” (Luke 4:18)

      Through the power of the Spirit we are 'Sent On Mission.' Today we want to spend a bit of time sharing how we are seeking to fulfill that calling as a church.

      LOCAL MINISTRY PARTNERSHIPS

      We aim to see the eastern Fraser Valley transformed by the Gospel. We do that primarily through planting and replanting churches for the advancement of the gospel and the good of the communities they are in, as well as partnering with amazing local ministries, and scattering to serve in myriad of ways.

      • Cyrus Centre (Financial Commitment)
      • Kw'íyeqel Secondary School (Weekly Breakfast Program)
      • Promontory Heights Elementary School (Breakfast & Lunch Program)
      • Camp Bob (Youth Initiative)
      • Youth Unlimited (Financial Commitment)

      GLOBAL MINISTRY PARTNERSHIPS

      Because Jesus not only calls us to reach our neighbours but also the nations, we are committed to sending out and supporting missionaries to go to the unreached and strengthen the global church. Central financially supports and partners in ministry with these global missions organizations:

      • Multiply | Lampang Church Plant (Financial Commitment)
      • Compassion (Financial Commitment)
      • WorldServe (Financial Commitment)
      • Children's Haven International (Youth Initiative)

      SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

      We gather on Sundays and then scatter all week long throughout the valley to live for Jesus and bless our community. Consider volunteering at one of the following local organizations on your own or with your Life Group:

      • Cyrus Centre
        
      • Kw'íyeqel Secondary School*
      • Ruth & Naomi's
        
      • Pearl Life Renewal
        
      • Salvation Army Foodbank
        
      • Agassiz & Harrison Community Services
      • MCC

      *If you'd like to get involved with the Breakfast Program at Kw'íyeqel Secondary School please contact Jonathan Kornelsen | Youth Pastor - jkornelsen@centralcommunity.ca

       

      ---

      Got questions? We'd love to answer them!
      Please contact The Office - office@centralcommunity.ca

       

      ]]> We Elders met this past Tuesday for our monthly time together. It was an extra special evening given we started our time with enjoying a meal with all of the Central pastors. Julien shared some thoughts from 1 Corinthians with all of us. The Holy Spirit is at work and opening doors as a response to our prayer. Amazing to think what is in store that we don't yet see! https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=91 Tue, 23 May 2023 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/91/EldersUpdateMay2023

      We Elders met this past Tuesday for our monthly time together.  It was an extra special evening given we started our time with enjoying a meal with all of the Central pastors. Julien shared some thoughts from 1 Corinthians with all of us.  The Holy Spirit is at work and opening doors as a response to our prayer.  Amazing to think what is in store that we don’t yet see!

      We spent time throughout the evening praying for the congregation.  If you have a specific prayer request please make your request here and it will forward to the group who pray regularly for you.

      Please remember to pray regularly for our Pastoral team, their marriages and families; we are truly blessed to have such a cohesive, unified team committed to equipping us all to love God, and the people of the Eastern Fraser Valley.

      You may not see Pastor Ron for awhile.  He is taking his vacation and a sabbatical through the end of August.  Please pray for he and Sherrie as they explore BC for a time of spiritual and personal refreshment.

      Be sure to review the upcoming events on the website.  A corporate evening of worship, Pentecost missions Sunday, summer day camps in all five of our campus communities, plus so much more!  Our volunteer appreciation events are coming soon as well.  We thank all individuals who enjoy participating with volunteer time in many ministries of the church.  If you currently aren’t serving at Central, we encourage you to fill out a Connecting Card or ask your Campus Pastor; there are so many areas that need you…and serving is fun!

      Central is part of the British Columbia Conference of Mennonite Brethren Churches (BCMB) and participated in their annual convention this past month.  Please pray for our denomination as we seek a fresh, renewed vision to proclaim the Gospel in the future in a time of transition at both the conference and the college (CBC).

      Thank you for your continued demonstration of faith through financial support to the work of Central.  As your schedule and attendance may vary moving into the summer, please consider automatic withdrawal giving that can be setup through the website and continue to support our vision of seeing the Eastern Fraser Valley transformed by the Gospel!

      Ernie Charlton
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      Finance Update
      
      

      The Elders received word that giving to the mission of Central has increased over the same period last year by 8% to $649,019. With our robust and diverse ministry venues. expenses are also up over the previous year resulting in a year-to-date shortfall of $139,500. While this is significantly better than the same period last year, the Elders encourage the congregation to consider how they might support the ministries of the church especially as we move into what are typically lean Summer months. Expenses are being monitored closely with the staff team ensuring they steward resources well.

      The Elders noted an increase in benevolent giving which is used to fund needs within the congregation and community. Once such need is the food program at Promontory Elementary which Central recently began supporting to assist families struggling to make ends meet. The Elders are grateful for the faithful and sacrificial support of the congregation as together we strive to see the Eastern Fraser Valley transformed by the Gospel. 

      
       

      ---

      Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
      Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

      ]]> Anyone remember the song 'The Living Years' by Mike + The Mechanics? It's an 80's gem and it's one of those Cats in the Cradle type songs about a stilted relationship between father and son. The kind of song that randomly pops onto the radio and instantly dusts off old emotions, placing you square in your blubbery feelings while barrelling down a highway in a car filled with your entire family. A scenario that has definitely never happened to me, of course. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=90 Tue, 02 May 2023 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/90/TheGenerationalLoopOfBlame

      Every generation blames the one before. And all of their frustrations, come beating on your door.

      The Living Years by Mike + The Mechanics

      Anyone remember this song? It's an 80's gem and it's one of those Cats in the Cradle type songs about a stilted relationship between father and son. The kind of song that randomly pops onto the radio and instantly dusts off old emotions, placing you square in your blubbery feelings while barrelling down a highway in a car filled with your entire family. A scenario that has definitely never happened to me, of course.

      Like the song describes, I see generational discord and misunderstanding all the time and in many different ways. It's a topic that comes up a lot. Usually in a complaining type manner. You may have noticed this too. I think once we get to a certain age we all find ourselves participating in this kind of old-timer grumbling. But as the years pass, I've found the topic more interesting than anything else.

      My father-in-law likes to tell a story about the time he went to a big church conference for youth workers as a teenager. It was in the 70's when it was popular for men to have long hair and he followed this trend. While at the conference, the preacher berated the audience angrily about men with long-hair being unchristian and influenced by the devil. In the middle of this message my father-in-law watched as a fellow longer-haired man stood up to leave, only to have the preacher stop his sermon and shout at the man to sit down. He obeyed.

      When Boomers were teens my grandparents generation called them "dirty hippies". They were perceived as slackers who only valued frivolous experiences and had never endured a hard days work in their lives. Which sounds a lot like the kinds of things I hear said by my Millennial peers about Gen Z. It's also been the same rock thrown at Millennials from our Boomer parents.

      It's a tale as old as time. We love to blame the generations we aren't apart for every societal issue we face in the moment. I guess it's a weird right of passage. And it feels extra prevalent right now. Because this is an issue that affects us all. Especially in our families, our jobs and even the church. With so much cultural shift and technological progression, we have different generations inter-mingling with each other on mass. Making the mounting frustrations more prominent than ever.

      But I'd like to call a cease-fire on this generational blame battle.

      I'm mainly speaking to Christians, because we're supposed to model a different way. And the Bible has helpful wisdom on this very issue that we could really use right now. Which means, if we want to see spiritual flourishing happen within the whole body of Christ we must open the Scriptures to reverse the negative ways this is affecting the church.

      Before I get into it, here are the generation names that I've already used and will continue to use in this post. Some lists vary the dates a little, but this is just to give some clarity as we continue.

      • The Greatest Generation – born 1901 - 1927.

      • The Silent Generation – born 1928 - 1945.

      • The Baby Boomer Generation – born 1946 - 1964.

      • Generation X – born 1965 - 1979.

      • Millennials – born 1980 - 1995. (Me!)

      • Generation Z – born 1996 - 2010.

      • Gen Alpha – born 2011 - 2025

      As you can see the most prominent generations of adults that are working together and engaging in larger societal conversations are Baby Boomers, Gen X's, Millenni]]> This past week we met again for our monthly elders meeting. It was so encouraging! We met forty-five minutes before the meeting to pray for and with those in the congregation who needed prayer. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=89 Wed, 26 Apr 2023 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/89/EldersUpdateApril2023

      Another Easter has come and gone. While it may seem like folly to some, the words of 1 Peter 2:24 “He himself bore our sins in his body on the tree, that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. By his wounds you have been healed” are the words that give us, as believers, hope and encouragement in our faith. It was also a great time to invite those who haven’t heard or believe the good news of the Gospel of Jesus to church to learn about our loving God and what He did for us.

      And this year, many people were able to hear that message. In fact, Easter Sunday saw the largest Easter gathering ever at Central as nearly 1,650 people attended services across the 5 campuses. With a vision to see the Eastern Fraser Valley transformed by the gospel, we were so encouraged to hear that so many people were able to hear the message. In addition, 925 people attended the Good Friday services held at 3 of the campuses, 2 south and 1 north of the Fraser River.

      Easter was also a time of celebration as 3 people took another step in their faith journeys and were baptized, and 22 became ministry partners. It is such an encouragement and joy to hear the stories of lives transformed by Jesus.

      Our meeting this past month began in the same way most Elders Meetings do as we spent time praying for the church, praying for one another, and praying with those from the congregation who needed prayer and came and joined us. We continue to invite our people to come and let us share in your times of grief, sorrow, pain, and even joy and thanksgiving. It’s a blessing to be able to serve in this way. We also spent time as a group discussing an article by Timothy Keller called The Missional Church. It was a good way to dialogue about our focus on the mission of Central and evaluate our effectiveness as a Great Commission as we began the evening.

      Ministries are in many various stages in the church right now. We think of the youth ministry this Spring in a final push before transitioning to some summer events, the women’s ministry which has been going for several weeks, and the men’s ministry which is just starting up another season again. We discussed each of these as well as the opportunities and plans the pastors are already discerning for the fall.

      We want to thank everyone for praying throughout the Elder Discernment process and ask for continued prayer as the process continues and is winding down. We are looking forward to what God may have in store as far as adding to this team of godly men in the future. Please also continue to be in prayer for each of the pastors as they continue in the calling to serve God at Central.

       

      Tyler Schulz
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      Finance Update
      
      

      This month the Elders received word that Central’s overall financial picture is tracking with our historical norms. Giving to the mission of the church is slightly ahead of the same period last year and ministry expenses are being monitored closely with most being well below budgeted targets. Our ongoing expenses to cover operations and ministry at our five campuses continues to place us in a shortfall when comparing income to expenses. This shortfall of $109,032 is in pace with expenses to income numbers for the same period last year.

      The Elders celebrate the faithfulness of God’s people as we collectively invest in the mission and vision to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley with the gospel. Beginning this month, quarterly financial updates will be presented to our campuses with the goal of providing meaningful information to achieve our collective budget. The Elders encourage you to consider how you might participate in God’s mission through giving.

      
       

      ---

      Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
      Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

      ]]> This past week we met again for our monthly elders meeting. It was so encouraging! We met forty-five minutes before the meeting to pray for and with those in the congregation who needed prayer. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=88 Mon, 27 Mar 2023 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/88/EldersUpdateMar2023

      This past week we met again for our monthly elders meeting. It was so encouraging! We met forty-five minutes before the meeting to pray for and with those in the congregation who needed prayer. Most months we do this, and this is another an invite to any of you who feels like you need prayer in our church, either for yourselves or for other people you love and care for. This is one of our favourite things to do as elders. James 5:16 says “Confess your sins to each other and pray for each other that you may be healed.” This is a wonderful time to do this in our church. We also have been providing time after each service for those that need prayer to come forward and do so, and we encourage you to do that as well if you feel the prompting of the Spirit.

      We kicked off the meeting talking and praying with some of the new elder candidates. One of the steps in discernment for being an elder is for the guys to come and ask any questions they may have of what the role is like, etc. While it is early on in process it is exciting to see the godly men that have been nominated by the church. Please pray for those on the discernment team as well as all those that were nominated and their families for the Holy Spirit’s direction through this process.

      We also spent some time debriefing the AGM we recently had. It was so awesome to see so many of you come out! At our AGM’s we try to really celebrate what God has done in the last year as well as communicate well on what we believe—by the Spirit’s leading—the future holds for Central as we try to reach the entire Eastern Fraser Valley with the gospel. It can sometimes be challenging to communicate enough but we believe the AGM is another channel to do that. If you are a ministry partner at Central, I would say this is not a typical boring business meeting of the church, but more of a celebratory worship night, and would encourage you to check it out next year if you have not before.

      Pastor Matt also gave us an update on where many of the church ministries are at. Some of the highlights are that Women’s ministry is about to begin a weekly study through the book of Colossians, Core doctrine wrapped up recently on the north side of the river in Harrison, and Kids ministry summer camp dates are set. I am also leading Freedom Session with Pastor Eldon, and we are nearing the home stretch with 8 weeks left. It has been such a blessing being part of it. We are also planning to have four Good Friday services. Two in Chilliwack, one in Harrison, and in Promontory. Easter Sunday services will be held at all campuses and we look forward to celebrating the resurrection of Jesus with you all. There is much to give thanks to God for. While running five campuses has many challenges, there are also many evidences of God’s grace, and we are so thankful for so many of you that serve faithfully week in and week out in many different ministries!

      Gary Baars
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      Finance Update
      
      

      We have started a new ministry year that includes a budget set to facilitate our vision to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley. At our recent AGM we agreed to set our 2023 budget at $2,735,643. This amount includes income and expenses at all five campuses. The Elders noted that ministry expenses continue to be in line with budget projections, and giving remains consistent. Year to date giving to the end of February is on par with last year. We are thankful for the generous participation of the congregation as we strive to be faithful to the vision God has given us.

      This year capital projects are being funded through an increase in our mortgage. The Lake Errock campus is almost restored for full operations and the Harrison campus renovations are substantially complete. Similar to last year, we currently are experiencing a shortfall of revenue to expense in the amount of $100,520. The Elders encourage you to consider how you might invest the resources God has given you to make up this shortfall. The Elders celebrate God’s faithfulness to the church, including providing for us financially.
      

       

      ---

      RECEIVE PRAYER FROM THE ELDERS
      

      
      Our Elders have such a heart for the family of Central. Whatever burden you are carrying, the Elders count it a privilege to lift you up in prayer. You're invited to come receive prayer from them before each monthly Elder's meeting.

      Tuesday, April 18 | 6.30pm - 7.00pm
      Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

       

      ---

      Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
      Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

      ]]> The elders met again this past week. It was a privilege to pray together, both for those who came for prayer and also for all the prayer requests written in. There is lots to be thankful for these days. God is doing many exciting things amongst all of our campuses. However, we also recognize that many people in our church and our community are hurting, and so we spent some time in prayer for those things. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=87 Tue, 21 Feb 2023 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/87/EldersUpdateFeb2023

      Hello Central,

      The elders met again this past week. It was a privilege to pray together, both for those who came for prayer and also for all the prayer requests written in. There is lots to be thankful for these days. God is doing many exciting things amongst all of our campuses. However, we also recognize that many people in our church and our community are hurting, and so we spent some time in prayer for those things.

      Jorge lead us through a discussion and study of chapters 48, 52, and 53 in Systematic Theology. The discussion was about the means of Grace within the church as well as the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Paster Matt gave us a ministry update. There are many programs currently running including Preaching Lab, Freedom Session, Men’s and Women’s Ministries, and Core Doctrine at the Harrison campus. All these programs are seeing fruit in the form of spiritual growth and peoples skills being honed for kingdom work.

      We heard some exciting news about potential ministry opportunities at the Sts’ailes and Seabird Island reserves. Central has been given permission to run a soccer camp at Seabird and there are talks of doing either Freedom session or Alpha at Sts’ailes. Please pray that doors would continue to open and for the Holy Spirit to move in those relationships.

      The elder nomination process is currently underway. We received a number of nominations from the congregation, which will now be vetted by the discernment team. Please pray for this group of men and for our discernment team, that all would have wisdom and follow God’s leading.

      

      Our AGM is coming up on March 6th. Various elders, staff, and ministry partners will be sharing ministry updates and stories of God’s faithfulness. We encourage you to come and celebrate with us and also learn a bit more about the ministries happening in our church. There is no doubt that the Holy Spirit is doing good work here at Central. People are continuing to attend, grow, serve, and give, and we are excited to rejoice together.

      We are in a season of Lent. The evening gatherings for Ash Wednesday at both Chilliwack and Harrison were a big success and it was a blessing when we had to set up more chairs to accommodate everyone. Throughout the Old Testament, ashes were used as a symbol of repentance, dedicated prayer, and grief over sin. Likewise, Genesis 3:19 reminds us that “you are dust and to dust you shall return.” Ash Wednesday then is an opportunity to sit in the reality of our sin and our desperate need for a Saviour. The entire season of Lent leading up to Easter will prepare our hearts to better understand and appreciate what Jesus has done for us. His death and resurrection is why we have peace for today and hope for eternity.

      DJ Hiebert
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      Finance Update
      
      

      The Elders reviewed the financial statement for 2022 noting that giving was strong in the month of December. The generosity of the congregation allowed us to essentially reach our giving budget target of $2,287,379, with $2,268,938 being received in donations with the above and beyond giving included. Capital expenditures invested in the Harrison and Lake Errock renovations, and capital expenses in the associated with the Chilliwack Campus left us with an overall shortfall of $249,439. Recognizing that capital expenses of this magnitude are not easily funded from general giving, the Elders determined to increase our mortgage by $500,000 to cover this shortfall and capital costs expected in 2023.
      
      Ministry expenses are well within budget parameters, and staff are managing the budget well. Giving to our mission of reaching the Eastern Fraser Valley with the gospel remains a priority for Central as evidenced by the generosity of those who donate. A audit review report received by the Elders  from the Financial Review Team indicated that our financial practices and record keeping are accurate and reliable. Our thanks to the Financial Review Team for their diligence.
      
      In keeping with giving trends, and with a dedication to our mission, the Elders have set a giving budget goal for 2023 of $2,619,643. This amount includes the budgets for 5 campuses and the related ministry expenses. When capital projects are included in the operating costs for 2023 the budget total is $2,989,143.  This year, on a quarterly basis, campuses will receive a financial update outlining giving and expenses related to their ministries. It is our hope to facilitate and provide helpful information in terms of local giving.
      
      The Elders thank God for his provision through the Central congregation located across the Valley. Together, as we invest the resources that God has given we can faithfully proclaim the wonders of our King, Jesus.
      

      

       

      ---

      RECEIVE PRAYER FROM THE ELDERS
      

      
      Our Elders have such a heart for the family of Central. Whatever burden you are carrying, the Elders count it a privilege to lift you up in prayer. You're invited to come receive prayer from them before each monthly Elder's meeting.

      Tuesday, March 21 | 6.30pm - 7.00pm
      Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

       

      ---

      Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
      Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

      ]]> Where to begin? 2022 has been a year full of many extremes - extreme joy and extreme sadness, extreme blessings and extreme challenges - but we have found GOD to be faithful - through it all - and for that we give Him thanks and glory. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=86 Thu, 26 Jan 2023 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/86/Childrens-Haven--Newsletter-Update

      Dearest Amigos,
      
      Where to begin? 2022 has been a year full of many extremes - extreme joy and extreme sadness, extreme blessings and extreme challenges - but we have found GOD to be faithful - through it all - and for that we give Him thanks and glory. As you should see immediately from the photo below, our biggest blessing has come in the form of many new sons and daughters. This picture was taken in October, with the hope of CHl's end-of-the-year letter being one of the first organization's Christmas letters to reach you! We can also see clearly how that turned out, ha,ha,ha! But had all gone as planned, I would not have had the opportunity to share that God blessed us with 4 more children in the last 2 months, bringing our full-time family to a total of 92 Kids & 18 Staff (in addition to the 18 teachers and assistants that run our on-site elementary school, Maria - our cook, our Christian psychologist and an extra substitute Tia who all live off campus but are also essential members of our Mexico Team).

      

      I also would not have had the opportunity to share about one of the biggest tragedies that has befallen us in years. On Dec. 9th, our iconic gym burned to the ground due to a short in the circuit breaker box. The fire was swift and the devastation was total - but no children or staff were injured! Thanks be to God!

      • Two groups of children (left) lost their classrooms, all text books, furnishings, desks, computers, etc.
      • Our youngest Kiddos lost their nursery with all the furnishings (middle).
      • The sweet family of 5 we've been helping for the past year lost everything (insert). They had been living in the apartment in the gym since fleeing their home in the interior of Mexico due to cartel members threatening to re-kidnap their oldest son even after having paid a hefty ransom.
      • Our stockpile of school supplies for all grades was entirely lost as were all of our Mexican folk dance outfits and costumes for special occasions.
      • Equipment for PE and all art supplies used for over 150 students was destroyed along with sound and video equipment used for Chapel, not to mention many benches and tables.

      

      

      The list could go on and on of what was lost - thankfully, with the extra funding we are praying will come in, most material items will eventually be able to be replaced - this has become a great, unexpected and urgent need.

      What has not been lost however is our hope for the future, nor our trust in the Lord. We can see His hand of protection, even in the timing of this tragedy, and we give Him much thanks.

      Between 4 and 5 PM, when the fire began, only Jaime and his two sons were in the building. He saw the smoke coming through the floor boards and just barely had enough time to get his boys downstairs to safety. Had it been earlier in the day, while classes were going, or when all 150+ students were gathered for chapel... had it been even an hour earlier when our older girls were doing their chores of cleaning the upstairs classrooms and Tia Sulema was handing out school supplies or in the dead of night when the family would have been asleep - the outcome would have been far, far more devastating.

      The fact that this terrible accident occurred during the children's last week of school before Christmas vacation - has actually been very timely as well. It has allowed us a little space to regroup, as we seek the Lord's will on how to proceed. The following Monday - two of the displaced classes were held in the newly remodeled computer room/future library - which is about 95% complete. Tio Juan's office was turned into the nursery for a few days and the family is currently staying in one of the apartments used for the Tio & Tias' days off. We are seeking God's guidance on how to proceed and for now our emphasis will be on replacing the lost material items needed to resume classes in January - rather than focusing on rebuilding the gym at the moment.

      I've written this letter so many times in my mind over the last few months - giving you updates and thanking you for your support of this ministry are some of the things I truly feel privileged to do as the Director of CHI. But today I am struggling to piece things together - so please bear with me.

      This letter will go out to our entire mailing list - between 1200 and 1300 folks in the US and Canada - that at one time or another have shown interest in our Home. About half of you are our "current donors" which means you have given at least one gift of any amount in the past 14 months - Thank You! It has been your donations that have helped us feed, clothe, educate and provide for each and every need of our Dear Ones during 2022. I know the economy has adversely affected everyone, that prices have skyrocketed all over and it doesn't look like there is really any end in sight - but YOU have chosen to make "providing loving Christian care to needy children" one of your personal priorities and we are honored that you would partner with CHI to do it for 92 of "the least of these".

      We pray you will continue to support the Haven in 2023 and we are committed to being faithful stewards of every dollar that is sent in to advance God's Kingdom work in the hearts and lives of needy children and teens as well as the growing community that now surrounds the Haven in Reynosa - through our school and other outreach ministries.

      I also want to offer special thanks at this time to all those that even without being reminded or before you knew of our emergency needs - had already felt moved to send in an extra year-end gift. A few very, very generous ones too, I might add! At the beginning of the month, I was surprised to see we were actually ahead in our finances as compared to last year. This is a wonderful thing, and the Lord knows we need it. Because at the same time, expenses have also increased drastically this past year. Most is due, obviously, to the huge increase in children. Two years ago at this time we had 42, last year around 65 and now 92! Why so many more children you ask? Well for starters, all 7 Casas are available for use now and our Site Director, Juan Arteaga, has done an amazing job at both staff and child retention. He has been an open door and the Home is running at complete capacity- if not slightly beyond!

      In Matthew 25:14-30 - Jesus used the parable of the talents to teach us the importance of using what God's given us to grow His kingdom. In that story the servants were dealing with
      money, and when they showed themselves to be faithful - the master gave them more money to be stewards of. We see each new child the Lord brings to us as an increase in talents - a reward for good and faithful service and an opportunity to see hopeless lives transformed by the love and care our wonderful Tios and Tias provide - with the end goal of growing His kingdom.

      Take Anthony for example, pictured below, with bruises on his neck from where his own mother tried to strangle him. Then look at the next photo - taken just a week later in the gym incidentally ... can you see the difference? Can you see the hope? That's what your gifts help us do!

      

      The increase in "talents" we have received has been]]> The elders met this past week and gathered to lift up Central Community Church in prayer as we embark on a new year of ministry in the communities that God has placed us in. The elders prayed with those who came to receive prayer, prayed for our pastors and staff, and for our congregation across Central's five campuses. Our prayer is to see God continue to move in mighty ways in the lives of His people, for the gospel to transform lives, and for each and every one of us to grow ever closer to Him in the midst of our diverse circumstances. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=85 Mon, 23 Jan 2023 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/85/ElderUpdateJan2023

      Happy New Year Central,
      
      The elders met this past week and gathered to lift up Central Community Church in prayer as we embark on a new year of ministry in the communities that God has placed us in. The elders prayed with those who came to receive prayer, prayed for our pastors and staff, and for our congregation across Central's five campuses. Our prayer is to see God continue to move in mighty ways in the lives of His people, for the gospel to transform lives, and for each and every one of us to grow ever closer to Him in the midst of our diverse circumstances.

      The elders had the privilege to start this first meeting of the year by commissioning one of our new deacons who is serving in and leading the Food Service team. We were encouraged to hear how this ministry has supported and facilitated so many other ministries in our church this past year and prayed for renewed strength and passion for our Food Service team as they continue to serve this year. 

      Pastor Matt then led the elders in a devotional in the book of Isaiah (Isa 6:1-8). This passage describing Isaiah's vision of the Lord was a reminder of God's holiness, man's imperfect nature, God's redemption plan and atonement for our sins, which as a result prompts the prophet Isaiah to respond "Here I am. Send me". May this also prompt us to be the hands and feet of Jesus, each in our own capacity. Looking back at our Five Weeks of Giving during Advent, the elders were thankful for the evident generosity of our congregation whether it was providing backpacks for families in need, sponsoring children through Compassion, supporting a new church plant in the Lower Mainland, providing canned goods for the food banks, or meeting our own giving goal for the year as a church.
      
      Keeping in step with one of our values to equip the saints for the work of ministry, a number of classes/event are resuming. Central's Preaching Lab, which started earlier this month, is an opportunity for some to explore their gifting in this area. Our Foundations class on Core Doctrine is also resuming next month and in an effort to make these available to a larger audience, these classes will be recorded to allow you to study either personally or in your Life Group setting. We pray these will be a helpful avenue to grow your roots deeper in the timeless truths of God's Word.

      Our elder nomination process will also start in a few weeks and we pray that God will make His calling clear in the heart of those He has prepared to join and serve as elders within His Church. We invite you to lift up the men of Central in prayer as you take part in this process, discerning and eventually bringing forth nominees whom you think would prayerfully consider serving as elders of our church.

      Finally, the elders have set a date for our Annual General Meeting which will take place on March 6, 2023. This will be an opportunity to praise God together for what he is doing through His people at Central, to present the budget that the elders approved for this new year of ministry, and to pray for God to lead us and equip us for what lies ahead of us.   
      

      God bless you.

      Julien Garner
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      Finance Update
      
      

      The Elders were encouraged to receive news that Central finished the financial year well. As a result of the generous investment of our congregations to our 2022 budget of $2,287,379, we received $2,268,938, just .8% short of our goal. The Elders thank you for your investment in our vision to reach the eastern Fraser Valley with the Gospel. It was noted that ministry and operational expenses were well within budget parameters, while capital investments into our Harrison, Lake Errock, and Chilliwack campuses pushed us over in our overall expenses.

      

      Over the past couple of years Central received four titles for property and buildings from the BC Conference of MB Churches (in both Harrison and Lake Errock). While these properties were gifted to the church the two buildings we received required significant investment in terms of capital for renovations, upgrades, and equipment. Our commitment to launching Harrison, and the flood in Lake Errock saw Central invest a total of $529,098 in these two buildings in 2022. These costs were funded for the most party through cashflow and a gift of $300,000 from Northview church. Central finished the financial year with an overall shortfall of income to expense in the amount of $249,439, all attributed to capital expenditures for campus expansion or repair. After a significant season of discussion the Elders, in keeping with their purview, have determined to increase Central’s mortgage by $500,000 to cover these expenses and restore cashflow, and to cover anticipated capital projects in 2023. The Elders encourage the congregation to consider reducing our mortgage as they are able or feel led.

      The Elders approved a budget for 2023 that will be available in the annual report, and presented at the annual meeting. It includes an accounting for capital projects, and reflects the cost associated with staffing and operating five locations. The Elders celebrate God’s faithfulness through the Central congregation and look forward to a year of ministry on mission.

       

      ---

      RECEIVE PRAYER FROM THE ELDERS
      

      
      Our Elders have such a heart for the family of Central. Whatever burden you are carrying, the Elders count it a privilege to lift you up in prayer. You're invited to come receive prayer from them before each monthly Elder's meeting.

      Tuesday, February 21 | 6.30pm - 7.00pm
      Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

       

      ---

      Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
      Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

      ]]> There is nothing more tasty in times like these than to be a person with a really big platform. Which is easy to come by. More and more, anyone anywhere can build a stage and find an audience. Not many of us will earn a physical gathering of listeners but all of us can easily muster a digital one. As Christians we all have important thoughts to share, and if we could draw a mass audience to hear them, why wouldn't we? It'd be a missed opportunity not to, right? https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=82 Tue, 10 Jan 2023 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/82/DearChristian

      “It sounded to him like the noise of too many mouths that talk and too few minds that think.”

      ― Lisa Unger, Heartbroken

      There is nothing more tasty in times like these than to be a person with a really big platform. Which is easy to come by. More and more, anyone anywhere can build a stage and find an audience. Not many of us will earn a physical gathering of listeners but all of us can easily muster a digital one. As Christians we all have important thoughts to share, and if we could draw a mass audience to hear them, why wouldn't we? It'd be a missed opportunity not to, right? My unpopular feeling is the risks outweighs the potential good. I believe our greater concern ought to be more about having a robust output ethic, than creating an audience.

      Don't worry, I see the irony in myself - a person with a writing website - discussing this topic.

      Which is why I'll share my own journey on this matter.

      I've been writing in journals, word docs and blogs for as long as I could put pen to paper. It's an outlet I enjoy. And I've found great delight and meaning in the process. Although I have no idea what the future holds in terms of my writing, I hope to make much of Christ in the small ways I use this gift today. So for now, I write here. But when I first started a previous blog about 17 years ago, I told no one about it. My husband was the only soul who knew it existed, and even he rarely read it. That started to change later on as I began sharing certain posts on Facebook, but not much. Which in hindsight is a gift, because when I look back on my early writing, boy am I embarrassed. There is nothing quite like the tone-def confidence of the youthfully idealistic Christian.

      And it is this exact journey of writing and looking back that haunts me into submission today. I still desire to write and share and add reasonableness into the world. But I also desire not to look back with regret. It is grievous to discover your past work was mere arrogant hubris. I am truly grateful to God that He never gave me a wide audience when I was too young and thought I knew everything.

      Because as it turns out, I don't.

      Here is the great difficulty though, everyone has an audience now. You have one if you are active on any of the main social networks. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Tiktok give us a throng of folks we can preach to, shout at and rant to about everything we feel in the moment. But that's not all. If there is anything the pandemic normalized the most, it is podcasting. Now anyone can grab a friend or two and start an opinion podcast for yet another personal audience. We can blog (guilty), start a YouTube channel and become a social media influencer all at the same time. And with it we gather a crowd to spectate whatever it is we want to share.

      These spaces are a platform in the public square. And we all want one. Which is dangerous. Why? Because when pedestals are high, falls are painful. It's hard enough to get it right when only a few are listening. It's so much harder when the reach is significant.

      But no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing.

      James 3:8-10

      Having a podcast or YouTube channel or blog is not inherently wrong. Obviously, or I wouldn't be writing now. And I also listen to an obscene amount of podcasts (really, too many, its a problem). I love learning from wise, educated and humble people through any medium I can get my hands on. I steer clear from opinion or pundit influencers, but there is much value in hearing experts talk about an area of expertise and then learning from it. There are so many wonderful mediums for us to receive wise counsel and teaching from knowledgable people all over the world. It is a gift.

      But it can also be a curse. There is a flip side to this coin. James' warns strongly of the human tongue. Which ought to make us take pause and think through our own personal reasons for attaining wide platforms.

      The danger behind it all lies deep within our own heart. Often, we need these outlets because of our insatiable desire to weigh in on everything. We can't help but let our restless tongue flap about something we have no business discussing. Yet we must. And once we attain an even greater audience, we can't leave them waiting. Quantity over quality. It's dangerous to gather a group of likeminded people together and pump out content for them constantly. Why? Because thoughtless meanderings about untrained subjects will at some point turn into rants about opinion. And with the shifting sands of culture, weighing in on every menial issue will not age well. All it does is enhance opportunity for gossip, hearsay, slander and malice. For Christians, hypocrisy lies in wait.

      It's in our human nature to do this.

      Fools vent their anger,
      but the wise quietly hold it back.

      Proverbs 29:11

      Most of us aren't experts but just young-christian-me with mediocre blogs. Lots of ego disguised as "truth-telling". It is so easy to preach to a choir about everything we know they want to hear for likes and subscribes. Ovation clicks are dopamine hits from strangers. Then before we know it we're just another teacher with a platform of people that love the way we tickle their ears without challenge (2 Tim 4:3^). Our flesh is way too weak to handle the weight of glory that comes with much applause. And worse still, we train our listeners/readers to turn away from their ordained church authorities and look to their preferred online authorities for affirmation. The stakes are high at that point.

      Too many have gotten a platform, having never been affirmed by professors or publishers or elders. And there is a reason why this can be so harmful.

      Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.

      James 3:1

      As I've thought about this over the last many years, my writing has become less frequent. The racket of ideas and the never-ending onslaught of hot-takes became too much at some point. And I just couldn't add to the noise any longer. So I stopped. I was dry from not writing and dry from not wanting to. The problem though is that I still loved to write. And by God's grace, through a healthy break, it became clear to me that I have full autonomy and freedom in Christ to do it. We are free to make and create and curate. This is, in fact, the way God made us as image-bearers of Himself. And what He has gifted His people to do - they should do. Which was relieving for me to relearn all over again.

      Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a cover-up for evil, but living as servants of God.

      1 Peter 2:16

      However in my learning about what true freedom in Christ is, I understand now more acutely how much I need wisdom to know when to speak and when to shut up. Lest I use my freedom for evil. I now have many more break pads when I write. And I have a whole new rhythm and output ethic to help with the haunting reality of possible regret. I]]> Our last elder meeting of the year began with a bit of a twist. We had the pleasure of being joined by Central's deacons for our time of a prayer and got to hear a bit about their ministry within our church. We were joined by Mike Harrison, Laura Belyea, and Martha Bishop. What an encouragement to hear how they are seeing God move in His church as they serve so faithfully. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=84 Tue, 20 Dec 2022 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/84/ElderUpdateDec2022

      Our last elder meeting of the year began with a bit of a twist. We had the pleasure of being joined by Central’s deacons for our time of a prayer and got to hear a bit about their ministry within our church. We were joined by Mike Harrison, Laura Belyea, and Martha Bishop. What an encouragement to hear how they are seeing God move in His church as they serve so faithfully. Mike serves our North Fraser campuses in many ways, from overseeing our audio ministry at our campuses North of the Fraser, to fixing the facilities during the week, and serving with his family as part of the core team in Lake Errock. Laura coordinates and oversees our count team and is a first-hand witness to the generosity of this church. She is thankful to have a great team of committed volunteers around her. Martha is a beacon of prayer and care at the Agassiz campus, coming alongside and discipling many people there. Please lift these servant-hearted folks in prayer; pray that God may fill them up even as they pour themselves out for others. There are also five others in the deacon discernment process; please pray for them as well as they discern God’s calling at this time.

      Speaking of God’s calling, earlier this month, eight people accepted God’s call on their life and were baptized! We embraced fourteen individuals into ministry partnership as well. It is such a joy to see people take this step of obedience. Please lift them up in your prayers as they continue on this path of following Christ.

      Pastor Matt gave a ministry update, and a major highlight of that was the incredible number of people consistently attending our Harrison campus since its launch this Fall. We praise God for a committed core team there that appears to be thriving! The comedy night held there earlier this month was also a success and saw even more community members come. Barriers are being broken, praise God for his faithfulness there! In-roads are also being made in the community at Lake Errock, slowly but surely.

      While we are excited by the work God is doing north of the Fraser, we have also come up against the reality owning and maintaining two facilities there. Last year’s floods wreaked havoc on the Lake Errock building, requiring significant repairs. The Harrison campus has also undergone much-needed maintenance in the past year and both campuses still require some TLC. The cost of repairs and necessary maintenance has caused some financial stress, and the elders have been discussing solutions at length over the past few meetings.

      As we approach Christmas, our advent theme this year has been “Five weeks of Giving.” By Grace, God has given us so much, foremost of which is the gift of his very own Son, Jesus. We bear witness to the generosity of our Lord by in turn being generous to others, and Central, we commend you in this! Hundreds of Backpacks of Hope have been gathered across all our campuses to be distributed to students and families in need in our campus neighbourhoods. 59 children were sponsored and released from poverty in Jesus’ Name, meaning that we have sponsored roughly 400 children as a congregation over the years of this partner ministry. This past Sunday we exceeded our goal of raising $5000 for Christ City Church planting in Surrey in 2023. Thank you Central for your generous giving!

      We received some feedback regarding the fact that there is no service on Christmas Day (Dec 25), as it falls on a Sunday this year, and the day after our practice of engaging our church and communities with meaningful Christmas Eve services. We discussed the matter again at length, and re-affirmed the decision to have our services on Christmas Eve (Dec 24). We look forward to gathering and celebrating the birth of our Saviour this Christmas Eve with you all!

      Merry Christmas Central!

      Justin Vugteveen
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      Finance Update
      
      

      The Elders continue to celebrate the faithfulness of the Central congregation. Your faithfulness to the mission and vision of the church honours God and allows us to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley. It was noted that year to date giving to the end of November took a dip when compared with the previous year. Even so donations are 7% above 2021. While our shortfall of income to budget increased again for November, it was noted that capital expenditures associated with preparing the Harrison Campus for ministry, the renovation of the Lake Errock Campus after the flood, and capital costs for the Chilliwack Campus accounts for $225,000. With the support of the Stewardship Team, the budget for 2023 was received and approved for presentation to the congregation at the AGM. This budget will include lines for capital costs in all campuses and a provision for campus expansion that will accumulate until needed. 

      

      As the 2022 giving year comes to an end, the Elders encourage you to consider how the Lord would have you contribute to His work. Tax receiptable donations can be given up to midnight December 31 for the 2022 tax year. The Elders are grateful for your partnership in ministry and strive to steward the resources to God’s glory.

      Please note our office hours between Christmas and New Years
      Monday, December 26	CLOSED
      Tuesday, December 27	CLOSED
      Wednesday, December 28	9.00am - 3.30pm
      Thursday, December 29	9.00am - 3.30pm
      Friday, December 30	9.00am - 3.30pm

       

      ---

      RECEIVE PRAYER FROM THE ELDERS
      

      
      Our Elders have such a heart for the family of Central. Whatever burden you are carrying, the Elders count it a privilege to lift you up in prayer. You're invited to come receive prayer from them before each monthly Elder's meeting.

      Tuesday, January 17 | 6.30pm - 7.00pm
      Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

       

      ---

      Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
      Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

      ]]> As you gaze upon the manger this Christmas and take in all the incarnational aspects of the season. As you spend time with friends and family, whether the dynamics are joyful or downright disappointing. Remember what a friend you have in Jesus. A forever companion. A Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. He is the King of Kings. He is the Lord of Lords. And He is the Friend of Friends. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=83 Tue, 13 Dec 2022 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/83/TheWordBecameFriend

      The King of Kings lay thus in lowly manger.
      In all our trials born to be our friend.
      ~ O Holy Night

      My daughter is currently wading through the precarious friendship years of middle school. Each month is new with whose in and whose out. Like a train on the move, making stops along the way, someone steps on and another steps off. There are tears of self-doubt some days and other days are full of BFF-induced elation. Middle school.

      The truth is, friendship is fickle all through life. Of course, to some degree it settles out of the highs and lows as we ease into adulthood. In theory, with maturity comes less delicate feelings. And it sometimes works out that way. It also can go other ways. We are, after all, weak and feeble sinners with brittle ego's. We're human - with different childhood experiences and time-sensitive stresses that weigh us down. With all that baggage we're bound to misunderstand our friends and let each other down.

      But as hard as it can be, friendship is essential for life. And it's been on my mind over the last few months.

      Over the summer I studied the book of John. Which admittedly is not my favourite gospel. Sorry - but lower your pitchforks. You'll be happy to know, deep-diving my least favourite gospel wasn't so bad and I was actually struck by something unexpected in this book.

      Most of us know the book of John has one pretty obvious goal. And that is to prove to the reader that Jesus is God - He is fully divine and perfectly part of the triune Godhead. And John unabashedly drives that point home over and over again. Of course there are many other juicy themes, but this is the big one. And his case is strong, compelling and extremely important.

      Yet as I studied the book the Spirit stirred something else in me. I was drawn in by a title of Christ I didn't intend to see in this particular gospel.

      Christ - our friend.

      Certainly we see Him model being a friend of sinners in every gospel, including John. And we read about the importance of good friendship all over the Bible in general. So its not a new concept. But there is only one place Jesus speaks of himself with that title and that's in John's gospel. I happily concede props to John for including this beautiful detail.

      He says this to his disciples in 15:12-15:

      This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you. No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have made known to you.

      Can you imagine what it would have felt like to be the disciples and to hear that kind of invitation? Jesus, not just as rabbi or leader but now as a friend? In our current structure of life, friend implies peer. It requires mutual affection and respect. It assumes regular day to day companionship. Give and take. It's a concept we all experience in life but it's not often thought about deeply.

      It's kind of regular. It is so...human.

      And as we live and breath today, that invitation is for us as well.

      There is no question John's main goal in writing this gospel is to highlight the divinity of Christ, and yet this text reminds the reader He is also fully human. He can relate to us like a brother and friend. His desire is for an intimacy that comes with self-sacrificing love for one another. He did His part on the cross. He sacrificed it all for His friends - and everyone who would call on His name after. He modelled that kind of true friendship perfectly and He invites that same dedication and companionship from us today. With our earthly friends and also with Him.

      This is why He came.

      In a manger, among cattle, the lowly, homeless and fragile - born to be our friend. Born to make Himself fully and truly accessible as a companion. For anyone who would have Him. This past Tuesday, we Elders enjoyed our monthly meeting. It was an extra special evening, in that all of the Pastors of Central joined us for a meal. It is rare to have us all in one place at one time. What a wonderful team of Godly men and women we have serving Central in vocational ministry! https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=81 Tue, 15 Nov 2022 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/81/ElderUpdateNov2022

      Hello Central,
      
      This past Tuesday, we Elders enjoyed our monthly meeting.  It was an extra special evening, in that all of the Pastors of Central joined us for a meal.  It is rare to have us all in one place at one time.  What a wonderful team of Godly men and women we have serving Central in vocational ministry!  We are reminded from Colossians 3 how we are to continually ‘put on’ compassionate hearts, kindness, humility, meekness, patience, bear with and forgive one another. I am struck how these are the traits exhibited by this great family of pastors.  God has blessed us with a tremendous team, unified by the Gospel of Christ.  The elders prayed over the Pastors before moving into the regular meeting time.
      
      There are tremendous things happening in the lives of people in all our Campus locations.  I was struck by the story of the Lake Errock Campus meeting practical needs in their community.  A family in the Scowlitz First Nation community recently suffered a house fire.  The people of Central provided clothes, food and, with resources from our Benevolent fund, purchased mattresses for the family. We are thankful for these opportunities to demonstrate Christian love to people in need and celebrate new relationships in the Lake Errock community.
      
      The renovation work continues in Lake Errock and Harrison Campus locations.  There are still some upgrades required to maximize the ministry potential of these locations.  We are thankful for the financial generosity of all of you that supports these capital projects.  Despite the work being unfinished, these locations are engaged in consistent, ongoing outreach and ministry work.
      
      Our Foundations classes are underway.  We desire that all of us are equipped and growing in our knowledge of the Christian faith; being sanctified in our roles as ambassadors of Jesus Christ.  I encourage you to check out the events calendar on our website and take advantage of these classes. 
      
      There are still many places to serve in, and through, Central.  Fill out a Connecting Card this Sunday or contact the church office for opportunities.  Please don’t just be a consumer, but rather engage and receive the joy that comes in serving others. 
      
      If you are currently in need of prayer or help, let us know. Your church family is here so you don’t have to journey alone. You can request prayer at centralcommunity.ca/Prayer, by phoning our Office | 604 792 8037 (Mon-Thurs | 9.00am - 3.30pm), or by email: office@centralcommunity.ca
      
      We spent substantial time reviewing the financial budget for the current and upcoming year.  God has given Central the vision to see the entire eastern Fraser Valley transformed by the Gospel.  We do this by supporting other local churches, organizations, and ministries, as well as planting church campuses.  A member of the stewardship team joined us and delivered a summary of their observations.  We commit to being wise stewards of the financial gifts you provide and thank God for His provision.

      Ernie Charlton
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      Finance Update
      
      

      The Elders received an updated financial report to the end of October. The report received was encouraging in terms of overall giving, noting that giving was up considerably even as they wrestled with the reality of significant capital expenditures as a result of the flood in Lake Errock, renovations required for the Harrison Campus start up, and significant maintenance issues at the Chilliwack Campus. While there is an overall deficit between income and expense, it was noted that ministry expenditures are inline or even under budget, with the bulk of the costs attributed to capital costs as noted below.

      

      Budget projections suggest that we will end the year on budget if donations given follow the trends from previous years. The elders recognize that these are difficult financial times for many. The benevolent fund continues to be engaged to provide for people in need. The elders strive to steward the gifts given to Central to accomplish our mission and are encouraged both by the management of funds, and the generosity of the Central congregation. As 2022 draws to a close the elder encourage you to join them and prayerfully consider investing in the mission of Central so we can achieve our vision of seeing the entire Eastern Fraser Valley transformed but the Gospel.

      ---

      RECEIVE PRAYER FROM THE ELDERS
      

       

      Our Elders have such a heart for the family of Central. Whatever burden you are carrying, the Elders count it a privilege to lift you up in prayer. You're invited to come receive prayer from them before each monthly Elder's meeting.

      Tuesday, December 13 | 6.30pm - 7.00pm
      Chilliwack Campus | 46100 Chilliwack Central Road

       

      ---

      Got questions or words of encouragement? We'd love to hear from you!
      Please contact The Elders - elders@centralcommunity.ca

      ---

      ]]> Central Kids Ministry love Jesus, loves kids, and wants kids around the world to know and love Jesus. Central Kids Ministry helps support a children's orphanage in Reynosa, Mexico through Children's Haven International. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=80 Tue, 01 Nov 2022 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/80/Childrens-Haven--Sponsor-Child-Update

      Central Kids Ministry love Jesus, loves kids, and wants kids around the world to know and love Jesus. Central Kids Ministry helps support a children’s orphanage in Reynosa, Mexico through Children’s Haven International. 

      Throughout September and October, Central Kids Ministry participated in a Children’s Haven fundraiser with the desired goal of $300. We were blown away by the generosity of Central’s kids and families with a final count of $1185! 

      Our weekly offering goes entirely to the children who live at the orphanage. Help us be on mission in Mexico by giving joyfully and generously during our Kids ministry services all year long.

      Here's an update from one of our sponsor children -

       

       

      

      Hello, my name is Gerardo. I am happy to be living in the RIN. How is your health? I graduated from kindergarten, went on to first grade. I am also going to language class and I want to speak well.

      I want to tell you that two groups came and painted the school and they played with me, we made crafts and they gave me candies they made a new pool, I like to swim, it is for six year olds. It's very hot here.

      Thank you for supporting me with your love, I love you very much and I ask God to take care of you and that you can come to see me soon. 

      I send you a hug!

      

      CHILDREN'S HAVEN

      "Providing loving Christian care for needy children"

       

      ---

      Got questions about Children's Haven International? Please contact:
      Crystal Stulp | Children & Family Care Pastor - crystal@centralcommunity.ca

      ]]> This past Elders meeting was once again started by spending time praying for those who come for prayer, as well as many others in our church who have brought praise and prayer request items to us. We are so thankful to walk along side those hurting in our church and would encourage you to join us for prayer whether your struggles seem large or small. God calls us to "cast your anxiety on him, because he cares for you." And we love doing that on your behalf before most elder meetings. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=79 Tue, 18 Oct 2022 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/79/ElderUpdateOct2022

      This past Elders meeting was once again started by spending time praying for those who come for prayer, as well as many others in our church who have brought praise and prayer request items to us. We are so thankful to walk along side those hurting in our church and would encourage you to join us for prayer whether your struggles seem large or small. God calls us to “cast your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.” And we love doing that on your behalf before most elder meetings.

                  After prayer, we start our meetings with a devotion or theological discussion of some variety and this month we studied Chapter 49 on Baptism, in Wayne Grudem’s, Systematic Theology. It is a great resource if you are exploring baptism or wrestling with potentially being baptised as believer when you grew up in a church, such as I did, that practiced infant baptism. While the whole discussion was much too in depth to post here, we believe that God commands us in Scripture to repent, believe and be baptized, and feel that ministry partnership in a local church flows naturally from there. While we appreciate and love the fact that fellow believers can land differently on this, we also believe that we are called to lead faithfully in the commands God gives us in the New Testament regarding baptism. As such, we are excited that 15 people are becoming ministry partners, including 9 who are getting baptized in December at Central!  One of the many highlights of being an elder is getting to meet with these individuals in advance to hear their testimony, encourage, and pray for them.

                  Pastor Matt gave us a ministry update and there is much to be thankful for and so much fruit coming from our ministries that are in full swing, including nine individuals who recently surrendered their lives to Christ! Along with all the usual church ministries there are many unique outreach opportunities such as the Great Pumpkin Carve event that is being held across multiple campuses, including our new Harrison campus. A unique ministry opportunity in Lake Errock is a wood chopping/firewood give away, which is such a practical way to bless that community and build relationships there.

      October is Pastor Appreciation Month, and we are so thankful for the great team we have on staff at Central! We are excited as well about our third Foundations class that’s starting up next month. Pastor Chris will be teaching “Faith Formation” in Chilliwack, while Pastor Jonathan Neufeld will teach “Bible Basics” in Harrison for our campuses on the north side of the river. We have had so much positive feedback on these classes, from the great teaching to the wonderful meal we can share together as church family.

      The elders are pleased to announce that Kurtus Niessen will be joining the pastoral team as our Community Life Pastor in mid-November. His primary duties will include care in our Chilliwack Campus and oversight of our Life Groups ministry. We praise God for His provision and all those who serve in so many ways at Central.

      

      Niessen Family: Kurtis, Dana, Rory (8), Brock (4).

      We also discussed our campus model and our long-term vision. While our goal is to reach the entire Eastern Fraser valley with the gospel, it has never been a goal to have more and more campuses. In fact, we could potentially see one or more campuses eventually being autonomous churches in the future, and we as leadership want to have parameters for deciding if, when, and how that would look. While we feel starting campuses has been God’s leading and such a blessing, despite the many growth challenges, there are many metrics we have, such as strong leadership in a church, which would make it a successful individual church. To that end, the Elders received and approved an evaluative document “Metrics for Effective Ministry,” to serve as an ongoing tool to evaluate ministry effectiveness across our campuses. Ultimately, we want to be led by the Holy spirit and we ask you to pray with us, and for us, as we discern what will be healthy for our church as we grow in the years to come.

                  As we look back at September, we also want to thank all those that gave so generously and sacrificially to the Above & Beyond Campaign. We are pleased to report that over $122,000 was donated to invest in our Harrison and Lake Errock campuses. There are so many amazing things happening in our church community. I am reminded of that every Thursday night in Chilliwack. I lead Freedom Session with Pastor Eldon at the Chilliwack campus and routinely there is a worship band rehearsal, Men’s Ministry, Young Adults, and personal counselling all going on at the same time. We thank God for the people and place to facilitate it all, but it costs money to continue to do it well as we grow as a church. So, we pray that you give generously as God leads you and your family. The point is this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heat, not reluctantly or under compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:6-7).

      Gary Baars
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      Finance Update
      
      

      The Elders celebrate the faithfulness of God’s people as they invest in the ministry of Central. Year to date general donations to the end of September remains strong with an overall 14% increase over the previous year. This does not the donations received in the Above and Beyond Campaign which totalled $122,187 ($106,739 to the end of Sept).

      Ministry expenses are well in line with budget projections with our staff team managing resources wisely. Donations from Northview and the BCMB Conference have assisted in funding renovations in our Harrison Campus, and restoration in Lake Errock. The funds received have been fully invested in these projects with Central investing additional funds to ensure repairs and restoration are completed and to address unforeseen costs such as significant plumbing and electrical repairs. There is currently a $223,407 shortfall when income is compared to expenses. The majority of this year to date shortfall, $100,000, can be attributed to renovation costs and an investment in facilities. The Elders were encouraged to note that while the shortfall is significant, it is $46,000 less than the same period last year; a year that did not have the same renovations expenses.

      

      It was noted that there are several significant capital projects that Central will need to consider in the 2023 budget year. These include facilities upkeep in Chilliwack, some additional projects in Harrison, finishing the Lake Errock building, and purchasing needed capital equipment. As the 2023 budget is being prepared these costs will be taken into consideration so as to manage our commitment to ministry and stewarding our finances.
      
      

      Greetings friends!

      Today is September 8th - the day Queen Elizabeth passed from this world to the next. Though (obviously!!) I didn't know her personally, like so many around the world - the news still saddens me greatly. As she is remembered I've already heard words like: Grace, Character, Strength, Dignity, Valor, Inspiration, Service and Loyalty being used over and over again to describe this beloved monarch. But you know - most of CHl's best friends from the past, those whom God used nearly SO years ago to come alongside the Mendoza's & plant the seeds for what we now know as CHI - can be described with exactly those same words, they're from this same incredible generation! What's even more amazing is that many of our present day "sustaining donors" fall into this "Special People Group"! Yes, they're in their upper 80's & 90's, but still believe in doing what they can to help needy children in Mexico have better lives
      and hope or the future. If you are in this prestigious group - please know how much of a difference you have made & how inspired we are by your love, faithfulness & generosity. If you're not in that group ... I'm sure you share that sentiment, all of you are children, "Grands" or even "Great Grands" of these folks. We're so thankful you have inherited or developed a love for others less fortunate that's so deep it would move you to support this Ministry. We pray the Lord will allow us to partner together for many more decades as well!

      I find myself quite emotional at the moment - thinking of so many dear friends of CHI that have had to leave the RGV or recently passed, like dear Cal Oss. He & his wife, Mary Lou - AKA "The Mop Lady", were some of CHl's most devoted volunteers in 1996 when Randall and I first began volunteering here. They served faithfully each WT season until their health no longer allowed them to come down from Minnesota - but their love & support continued even across the miles - just like so, so many of you! Cal & I were able to keep in contact, in fact he called me quite often after the passing of his sweet Mary Lou. I got to thank him & let him know how important their contributions had been - and that's exactly what I want you to know now - you are a blessing to each & every one of the children that God allows to call CHI home and to many other complete families through our school ministry! Your financial gifts, your prayers, and your support make a huge difference. I hope you'll never doubt that & I hope that these monthly "Receipt/Thank-you letters" are able to convey how appreciative we are of your partnership & hear about some of the difference you are helping us make - for now & most importantly, we pray for eternity.

      Those of you that made a contribution in August may recall me sharing that the HOME had an even 100 residents last month, well... now we are up to 106 -18 House-parents, 15 staff children & 73 RIN kiddos! Though most Casas were already closer to 12 than to 8 RIN Kiddos and we'd hope to get everybody settled into their school routines before taking in any additional children, God had other plans and brought us children from 2 families that
      are the definition of why CHI continues to be a relevant, necessary, life-saving, life transforming ministry.

      On the evening of August 26th, Tio Juan got a call from DIF (Mexican Social Services) saying that they needed us to do an emergency placement for Hector Miguel (2) and his siblings ages 3,4,6 & 8. Upon arrival it was evident they had been badly neglected and had been living in extreme poverty for quite some time. They were dirty, barely clothed, weak from hunger & all had stomachs protruding from parasites. They didn't cry or even seem scared. When offered food, they scarfed down 2 bowls of cereal each in no time flat, they seemed anxious and thankful to get a bath and all slept soundly through the night. The top right photo of Hector was taken yesterday, less than 2 weeks after his arrival - he is not the same child, none of them are. God has already begun His transforming work in their lives - isn't it amazing?! And you my friends are some of the instruments He is using.

      Well, obviously it took a little shuffling around to be able to accommodate so many young, young children without placing too much of a burden on any one of our Tias. The timing was somewhat of a challenge too - since everyone was just adapting to their "new families" in addition to all the added work of getting ready for classes to begin the following week - but our wonderful Tios & Tias welcomed them with open arms!

      Four days later, God blessed us with child #88 - Carlos Enrique. This sweet young boy has gone through terrible abuse in his eight short years, most recently at the hands of his mother, whom before kicking him out on the street, in addition to beating him, had been making him kneel for hours at a time on bottle caps as punishment for being naughty. He too was brought to us by DIF, which at least guarantees his mother can't take him back on a whim. How blessed we are to open our doors to "the least of these" - knowing what we do for them we are doing for the Lord. never seem to have enough space to say all I want to - but let me get one more THANKS in here! May God bless and reward you for all your support - we truly need it now more than ever. In Christ's Service, Betsy Chacon

      CHILDREN'S HAVEN

      "Providing loving Christian care for needy children"

       

      ---

      Got questions about Children's Haven International? Please contact:
      Jon Kornelsen | Youth Pastor - jkornelsen@centralcommunity.ca
      Crystal Stulp | Children & Family Care Pastor - crystal@centralcommunity.ca

      ]]> https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=76 Tue, 20 Sep 2022 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/76/ElderUpdateSept2022

      Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.

      Romans 12:15

      It was a busy summer at Central and this past week the Elders were able to get together and celebrate the wonderful things that God is doing around the eastern Fraser Valley. At the same time, it was an opportunity to come together in prayer for those in our congregation going through difficult times and recognize that pain that still exists in this fallen world. Truly a time to rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep.

      Throughout the summer, Central was blessed to be able to connect with the communities where our campuses are located with kids camps, soccer camps, and even a day of wood cutting for families around Lake Errock. It was a wonderful time of building relationship and meaningful connections and leaning into opportunities to share the Good News of Jesus with those who might not otherwise hear the gospel message. We are thankful to all the staff and volunteers who put in so much time and effort preparing for these events and faithfully serving the call God has put on us.

      The end of August saw six people baptized in Harrison Lake surrounded by a wonderful show of support from the Central congregation as several hundred people gathered on the beach to celebrate together. In addition, several others became ministry partners as we continue to strive to meet our vision and mission.

      With the fall kickoff to ministry, we officially launched Central’s fifth campus in Harrison. It was amazing to have 170 people, including many visitors and non-believers, come out to the launch service which now sees a local church in Harrison for the first time in several years. After a long period of preparation, renovations, and facility updates, we are blessed to have a great facility with which to minister to that community. We are thankful for Pastor Jeremy’s hard work, patience and outreach over this past year and a half and the incredible core team of volunteers committed to being the church and serving the community of Harrison Hot Springs with the love of Christ.

      Many ministries are starting up again this fall which you can be both participating in and praying for. Youth Group was launched with around 90 Junior High youth and 80 Senior high students attending south of the Fraser at the Chilliwack campus and another 20 youth north of the Fraser. We are grateful to have Matt Boettcher moving into a larger role with the youth north of the Fraser as he builds on his role with our students and at Lake Errock he started in the summer. Other ministries that are starting up include the Men’s and Women’s ministry, an upcoming Freedom Session and part 3 of the Foundations Course, Faith Formation. In addition, the Bible Basics portion of the Foundations Course will be offered North of the Fraser, keep your eye out for details on that.

      Staffing wise, we are thankful to hear that Pastor Matt was able to use his sabbatical over the summer to get refreshed and rejuvenated and ready to go into this ministry season. Pastor Eldon was also able to make use of some time off to get refreshed and spend time with family. The summer also saw the departure of Pastor Jayeson Wall, Cody Jackson, and Julianna Tschetter as God has called them into the next chapters in their lives. While their leaving has created some voids in ministry, we are confident that God will raise up new individuals to fill them. Please keep all the staff in your prayers.

      Finally, we are always looking for more volunteers to help fulfill the lofty vision we are called to at Central. If you are not yet volunteering, we ask that you pray and discern if there is an area of support that God is calling you into.

      God bless,
      
      Tyler Schulz
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ]]> We appreciate & recognize your purposeful & often sacrificial giving. Just as your gifts help meet the many needs of our ever-growing family - we pray God will bless & reward each one of you for your concern to His children & provide for your needs as well. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=77 Wed, 31 Aug 2022 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/77/ChildrensHavenAug2022

      Dear Friends:

      Happy end of August Amigos! Did you make it through the summer ok? Though our temperatures still remain in the high 90's most days - for our RIN Family & Kiddos - summer is coming to an end. Two of our 11 groups of students began classes today 8/22 - and the majority of the others will begin on 8/29. This is also when Colegio Refugio Internacional will open its doors to over 100 precious Elementary I Pre-school children to begin the
      2022-23 school cycle. 27 of those students are "ours" and the rest are boys and girls from the community who will not only learn about mathematics, grammar, history and science, but will also be hearing about Jesus on a daily basis, some for the very first time!!! Isn't that exciting?

      It's because of the faithful support of this ministry through your prayers and monetary gifts like the one you just sent; CHI is able to:

      • Consistently, touch the lives of nearly 200 youngsters (school & home), ages 1 yr. (our baby Valery) to 21 year old Teresa, who is the daughter of Tios Oscar & Laura and the newest member of our full-time teaching staff!
      • Hire a total of 15 teachers & assistants and 18 Tios & Tias as Mexican Missionaries serving their own people!
      • We are able to provide 2100 meals a week for our full-time family that's now grown to 100! (18 Tios & Tias /15 staff Kids and 67 RIN Kiddos). Praise the Lord!
      • Your donations help make it possible to provide everything else they need too - clothing, housing, transportation, medical treatment, schooling, etc. - things most of the RIN kiddos didn't have before coming to us and wouldn't have if they left. You are making a big difference!
      • Because you chose to partner with us, we can maintain & upkeep 9 casas, 12 classrooms, 3 offices, a gym, pool, soccer court, auditorium, dorms and outbuildings - THANK YOU!

      So far, despite the crazy price increases on absolutely everything, coupled with our Family almost doubling in size in 18 months - we still remain on solid ground. We pray you will continue to give, and we pray God will give us wisdom and guidance on how to stretch every dollar to the fullest. These are uncertain, challenging times for all of us, but it's when the Lord has chosen to bring us the most children - so on we go trusting HE will provide!

      For those of you that give monthly, and just received the July 4 pg. letter, I sure hope you will be as thrilled as we've been to hear and see some of the many exciting things the Lord has done in just a matter of weeks!

      Special note to our Amigos from CANADA,
      For a while now we have been trying to think of a better way to keep you more up-to-date on the happenings here at The Haven. We appreciate ever so much your faithful partnership, love and devotion to our Kiddos despite the thousands of miles that separate us. As you are aware, in order for your donations to be tax deductible in Canada - they must run through our International Children's Haven office in BC. Vic and Nellie Epp have been so kind and gracious to set aside a small space in their home and give of their time all these years to fulfill all Canadian requirements for making international donations as well as issuing each of you your end-of the-year tax statements.

      Their service also includes exchanging Canadian funds into US dollars and sending a check from ICH every month or so to our US office in Pharr. Therefore we have decided that beginning this year - each time we receive their donation, we will send out a copy of the letter like the one above, that accompanies their receipt - to all those that gave during that particular time frame. As you see it is not meant to be a receipt and does not include any individual donation amounts or dates - but Lord willing will serve as an extra thank you for your support and give you greater insight to what the Lord is doing through your contributions. May God bless you for your kindness to His children.
      
      

      ---

      CHILDREN'S HAVEN

      "Providing loving Christian care for needy children"

      ]]> We aim to see the entire eastern Fraser valley transformed by the gospel for the glory of God and good of all people. Help us plant campuses and reach the eastern Fraser valley with the gospel by giving "Above & Beyond" throughout the month of September. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=74 Tue, 16 Aug 2022 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/74/AboveBeyond

      We aim to see the entire eastern Fraser valley transformed by the gospel for the glory of God and good of all people.

      Help us plant campuses and reach the eastern Fraser valley with the gospel by giving “Above & Beyond” throughout the month of September.

      Central has an audacious Kingdom-oriented vision. Our goal is to see the eastern Fraser valley transformed by the Gospel. Everything we do at Central is geared towards this goal. Central is one church in five locations with a singular purpose: reaching people for Jesus.

      In Exodus 33:15 Moses said to God, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here.” We believe God is in this, His presence is with us, and He will supply all we need to go where He leads. As a church, each one of us are conduits of the very resources required for the task at hand.

      This September we will launch our Harrison Campus, our fifth gospel centre in the eastern Fraser Valley. Planting this campus has required an “all in” commitment in terms of prayer, planning, staffing, sending, going, and renovating the building gifted to us. Some 50 individuals have given themselves to forming the base team in Harrison with the goal of reaching the community for Jesus. Our goal is to make the Harrison building an effective gospel outpost for decades to come. Renovations have been under way for some time thanks to a significant gift from our friends at Northview Community Church. We are now asking Central to press in with the same kind of Kingdom-oriented generosity in order to complete the renovations and see this new work flourish as we reach further into the eastern Fraser valley.

      Our campus in Harrison, as well as Lake Errock serve as the only churches in their respective communities. The flood back in November devasted the basement of our Lake Errock building and while remediation is well under way, we are about halfway to completing repairs and still require a substantial investment to finish what we have started.

      By God’s grace, both buildings were gifted to us and have no mortgages on them. That said, it is our responsibility and desire to steward them well for the sake of the gospel, utilizing them for community events, children and adult discipleship, and Sunday gatherings.

      From September 4th to September 31st Central will hold an “Above and Beyond Campaign.” The goal of this campaign is to raise funds to complete these two projects, and invest in a couple key capital projects for the Chilliwack Campus (the third campus building we own). Our goal is to raise $200,000 in the month of September over and above our ministry budget.

      As a Great Commission church we recognize that Jesus calls us all to participate. It is our hope that God would move you to invest in this Kingdom work above and beyond your usual commitment to the ministry of Central. Please consider giving to this capital campaign that will serve as a catalyst in our goal of reaching the eastern Fraser valley with the gospel.

      In a church of our size there are many who are able to give extravagantly while others are only able to contribute a small amount. God is glorified by joyful generosity, whatever the amount. We are grateful for whatever gift you are able to contribute, big or small.

      Giving to the Above and Beyond campaign can be accomplished by designating your giving on an offering envelope, using our online and Central App giving options, or by writing 'Above and Beyond' on your cheque. It is our conviction that God has provided Central with all that she needs to accomplish all that God has in mind for us to accomplish. Prayerfully consider how God would have you partner in our desire to be faithful to God’s work.

      Talk about the Above & Beyond campaign in your home and bring it to God in prayer. Study these passages of Scripture and ask the Lord how He is calling you to participate:

      Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the first fruits of all your produce

      Proverbs 3:9

       And he sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the offering box. Many rich people put in large sums. And a poor widow came and put in two small copper coins, which make a penny. And he called his disciples to him and said to them, “Truly, I say to you, this poor widow has put in more than all those who are contributing to the offering box. For they all contributed out of their abundance, but she out of her poverty has put in everything she had, all she had to live on.”

      Mark 12:41–44

       “…their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part. For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means of their own accord.”

      2 Corinthians 8:2-3

       As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.

      1 Timothy 6:17-19

      ]]> We appreciate & recognize your purposeful & often sacrificial giving. Just as your gifts help meet the many needs of our ever-growing family - we pray God will bless & reward each one of you for your concern to His children & provide for your needs as well. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=73 Wed, 06 Jul 2022 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/73/Childrens-Haven--Newsletter-Update

      Dear Friends,

      Please receive our June letter with much love, appreciation & honestly amazement for such a committed group of supporters the Lord has banded together to provide for our family. I feeI like it's important to start out by saying, we know times are getting more difficult for everyone across the board. Prices are skyrocketing on absolutely everything on both sides of the border & from coast to coast - many of you depend on interest from investments & these surely are unpredictable times. Your most recent dona­tion receipted here, shows us that you have not forgotten about our Kiddos even in these challenging times - Thank You. We appreciate & recognize your purposeful & often sacrificial giving. Just as your gifts help meet the many needs of our ever-growing family - we pray God will bless & reward each one of you for your concern to His children & provide for your needs as well.

      Our home now provides for every material need of 80 children - so I hope you will feel you've made a wise investment in the ministry of CHI. 64 are the "RIN KIDS" - children who have come from desperate situations where the overwhelming majority faced abuse, abandonment and/or neglect. Most had never had proper nutrition nor education before coming to our home, fewer had experienced a loving homelife, much less a father and mother, modeling what God's design for the family was meant to be or caring for them or attending to their most basic needs. And in almost every single case, it wasn't until coming to the home - that these precious souls had the chance to hear of a loving Father, that sent His only son, to die on the cross - so that their sins - all of our sins - could be forgiven and new life in Christ could be found. This love, this hope, is by far the most important thing your support allows us to share with these precious children & our partnership is transforming lives daily!

      The other 16 Children mentioned above belong to our staff of 19 full-time missionaries that serve as TIOS & TIAS - who alongside 21 additional staff and teachers are the actual hands & hearts that provide the loving Christian care to our full-time family & education to 95 students from 81 outside families served by our school! You are actively helping us share the Gospel and make a lasting impact on each of their lives by your prayers and through your donations. Turn over to see our most recent college graduate and meet some of our newest family members.

      Special note to our Amigos from CANADA,
      For a while now we have been trying to think of a better way to keep you more up-to-date on the happenings here at The Haven. We appreciate ever so much your faithful partnership, love and devotion to our Kiddos despite the thousands of miles that separate us. As you are aware, in order for your donations to be tax deductible in Canada - they must run through our International Children's Haven office in BC. Vic and Nellie Epp have been so kind and gracious to set aside a small space in their home and give of their time all these years to fulfill all Canadian requirements for making international donations as well as issuing each of you your end-of the-year tax statements.

      Their service also includes exchanging Canadian funds into US dollars and sending a check from ICH every month or so to our US office in Pharr. Therefore we have decided that beginning this year - each time we receive their donation, we will send out a copy of the letter like the one above, that accompanies their receipt - to all those that gave during that particular time frame. As you see it is not meant to be a receipt and does not include any individual donation amounts or dates - but Lord willing will serve as an extra thank you for your support and give you greater insight to what the Lord is doing through your contributions. May God bless you for your kindness to His children.
      
      

      ---

      CHILDREN'S HAVEN

      "Providing loving Christian care for needy children"

      ]]> As the sun finally begins to shine, many of us look forward to pausing from our regular schedules and commitments for summer plans and activities. The Elders also want to pause and reflect on where we've come this year and what lies ahead at Central. Presently, Pastors Matt and Eldon are taking their 7-year sabbaticals. Would you join us in praying for much needed rest and rejuvenation for these men and their families? We continue to also lift our other pastors, staff, and their families in prayer after a taxing couple of years in ministry. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=3 Tue, 28 Jun 2022 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/3/ElderUpdateMay2022

      Dear Central,

      As the sun finally begins to shine, many of us look forward to pausing from our regular schedules and commitments for summer plans and activities. The Elders also want to pause and reflect on where we’ve come this year and what lies ahead at Central. Presently, Pastors Matt and Eldon are taking their 7-year sabbaticals. Would you join us in praying for much needed rest and rejuvenation for these men and their families? We continue to also lift our other pastors, staff, and their families in prayer after a taxing couple of years in ministry.

      Our campuses continue navigating various challenges shared with the joys of seeing God’s provisions in myriad ways. Pastor Jeremy and the Harrison Campus core team are meeting regularly and connecting with the Harrison community, anticipating the soon approaching September launch! God is working here, and it is exciting to be a part of this new chapter in Harrison. Lake Errock congregants also meet weekly as we continue to pray for God’s leading and celebrate new Ministry Partners step up in leadership roles here. There is significant remediation work underway to improve the building and perimeter drainage in Lake Errock. Promontory is gearing up for summer camp ministry and continues to have faithful regular attendance and support. Thanks, Pastor Jonathan, for leading in this place. Agassiz continues to have strong attendance and will be led primarily by Pastor Jeremy this summer with Pastor Eldon on his sabbatical. We pray for ongoing joy and growth in the lives of those in all our various campuses.

      The Elders celebrate an impactful season of Women’s Ministry where Aimee Salazar and her team had many meaningful discussions around the topic of “Fear and Anxiety” in the lives of Central women. Men’s ministry has just wrapped up and was another successful time as Pastor Chris led these men to delve into God’s word in James and foster new friendships. Stay tuned for Women’s and Men’s Ministry announcements for restarting in September. Pastor Jayeson recently led ten couples through a premarital counselling class – many were encouraged as God filled a clear need here. Our youth led our services a few weeks back and we were blessed with awesome worship, services, and by Pastor Jon Kornelson sharing the importance of passing our faith on to our youth; with a challenge to continually address our own faith and lead by example.

      This summer brings outreach opportunities for children and families with summer camps starting both north and south of the Fraser. We are thankful for the volunteers dedicated to having these camps run well and pray for gospel opportunities. Central Youth will be serving at Camp Bob, our affiliated church camp this summer and we pray for spiritual leadership and growth along with God’s protection for our youth as they travel. We had a recent volunteer appreciation night and want to reiterate a big thanks to the many volunteers that have served at Central this year as we pray for a time of rest over the summer! Please continue to pray for new volunteers to help step in for some of the gaps over summer with our Kids Ministry and worship. Thank you to Pastor Crystal for all your enthusiasm in equipping our kids and growing families.

      We thank those who lead us in such meaningful worship each week and for Pastor Tyson and his ongoing dedication to faithfully guide these teams well. Please continue to pray that God would raise up new worship leaders and musicians across our campuses. We look forward to celebrating new Ministry Partners and baptisms in the coming months as well.

      Central, we have much to be thankful for and continue to see God working amongst his people. I want to leave you with the start of Psalm 96 to hopefully inform your “song” through the summer whatever you are doing and wherever you are:

      “Oh sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth! Sing to the Lord, bless his name; tell of his salvation from day to day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples! For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised…”Ps 96:1-4a ESV.

      As we break for summer, let us not let up in our praise and adoration of our Lord wherever we are at. May we encourage one another and share of Christ’s good news while submitting ourselves to his leading expecting our hearts and lives to be transformed!

      Paul Graham
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      FINANCE UPDATE
      

      Year to date finances - The Elders are encouraged by the ongoing ministry at Central. This year a concerted effort has been made to ensure that all of Central’s ministries are supported well and that our new campus is ready to launch in September. Repairs to the Lake Errock Campus as slow and costly with the need for remedial work to ensure it does not flood again. Repair costs for Lake Errock currently surpass $45,000 with an additional $45,000 required to complete repairs and mitigation efforts.

      Plans for renovating the Harrison Campus are well under way and funding from Northview will cover a large portion of the costs. Year to date giving is 20% ahead of the same time last year. Even so, expenses are exceeding our year to date income. The Elders encourage the congregation to continue faithfully supporting the ministries of the church throughout the summer months as we strive to proclaim the Gospel across the Eastern Fraser Valley.

       

      ]]> For some reason, my parents always bought pulp-filled orange juice when I was young. It may have been one of the worst experiences of childhood to start drinking a delicious and refreshing glass of orange juice only to have it completely tainted by random bits of disgustingness. What a disappointment! https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=4 Thu, 05 May 2022 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/4/Orange-Juice--Discernment

      When I was a kid, I hated Orange Juice pulp!

      Can I get an, “Amen?”

      For some reason, my parents always bought pulp-filled orange juice when I was young. It may have been one of the worst experiences of childhood to start drinking a delicious and refreshing glass of orange juice only to have it completely tainted by random bits of disgustingness. What a disappointment!

      Until the day I discovered a magical tool called a “sieve.”

      Placing the sieve over my glass, this wonderful device would catch all of that nasty pulp as the orange juice poured into my glass. (I know, it’s not rocket science, just your basic filtering system). But my juice-drinking days had been redeemed!

      A sieve reminds me a lot of a gift and skill called “Discernment.” Discernment is the ability to separate good (i.e. orange juice) from evil (i.e. pulp) or truth from counterfeits. While the Lord blesses some of his children especially with this gift in a pronounced way ^{(1 Corinthians 12:10)} it is a vital skill for any follower of Jesus to develop.

      Jesus’s apprentices (followers, disciples) looked to him as their ultimate source of truth, goodness and beauty. Therefore, Jesus and his teaching (the Scriptures) are like the sieve that his followers use to test whether something is true or false, good or evil.

      Yet, the church in our day is not known for this ability to exercise discernment. So how can this change? I’d like to answer this by highlighting one main cause of our poor discernment skills, two mistakes we make that complicate this and then a solution to help us grow better at practicing the skills of Discernment.

      + ONE MAIN CAUSE - LACK OF BIBLE ENGAGEMENT
      Since Jesus and his teaching are the standard for separating truth from lies, it follows that Jesus disciples ought to be richly skilled in their knowledge of the Bible and deeply shaped and transformed by his word. Yet it is difficult to be richly skilled in our knowledge of God’s word and deeply shaped by the Gospel when we barely engage in Bible reading, Bible study and Bible learning in any meaningful way. One does not need to search hard to find information on the disheartening Bible illiteracy rates among confessing Christians.

      But it is not just the amount of Bible reading that is the problem, but it is also the way Christians read the Bible. For many of us, we read the Bible out of context and with a lack of appreciation for its genres of literature. Many of us approach the Bible a junk-drawer of nice quotes rather than as an epic unified story of God’s redemption plan. And when we misread the Bible this way, we also misunderstand its message. Therefore, when it comes to discerning through practical everyday scenarios in our lives, we often misapply the Bible as well. God’s enemy, the Devil, knew the Bible better than most of us and he used the Bible out of context in order to tempt Jesus in the desert ^{(Matthew 4:4)}. Satan manipulated the Bible to spread his lies and he does this still in believer’s lives today because it is so effective.

      This is why Biblical discernment is so necessary to cultivate. The stakes are much higher than simply getting some bad juice pulp. Our ability to understand reality itself and live in accordance with that reality is at stake. The war in Ukraine shows us what happens when a powerful man lives out of step with reality and spreads his lies to others. It unleashes hell, death and destruction into the world. 

      + TWO ERRORS - HOLDING FAST OR ABSTAINING
      One of the best summaries of discernment in Scripture comes in Paul’s letter to the Thessalonian church. Paul writes at the end of his letter,

      "Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.” ^{(1 Thessalonians 5:20-22)}

      This is a very helpful verse on discernment. As we look at a little deeper however, I’d like to point out two ways that we can misapply these words.

      One of the first mistakes I see Christians make is to obey the first half of the verse – the “hold fast what is good” part - while neglecting the second part - Paul’s instructions to “abstain from every form of evil”. As we interact with ideas in our culture, some of us have no filtering system at all. We just accept everything that gets poured into us. If we have a cause we are passionate about, we only see the positive and ignore anything that is ugly, false or evil. This fails the discernment test because like it or not, there is ugliness, evil and lies in the world and we must be aware of this in order to become wise and discerning.  

      A second mistake we can make is to only obey the second part of the verse - the “abstain from every form of evil” part - while not obeying the - “holding fast what is good” part.  Often believers who have been awakened to their need for discernment can end up creating an over-active filtering system. This would be like a sieve that not only blocks pulp from getting through, but orange juice as well. We can become hyper-aware of every small indiscretion and impurity in the world (and church) and obsess over these problems in kind of morbid way. In fact, there are whole Christian ministries that become heresy-hunters and specialize in sniffing out false teaching like hunting dogs. But ministries that dedicate themselves only to correcting error (what is known as “polemics”) are not modeling true discernment and the wise balance of Paul’s words. They may even be in danger of morphing into a new kind of divisive Pharisee ^{(1 Timothy 1:3-7; 4:1-5)}. Jesus had strong words for a whole church community in Ephesus that was guilty of this very thing ^{(Rev 2:1-7)}. The true skill of discernment uses the light of God’s word not only to expose lies, but to celebrate the things that are truly good and beautiful and that align with the Gospel. There are many things in our culture that are worth celebrating because they align well with a Christian worldview. We need to guard against becoming spiritual snobs and truth curmudgeons. This wasn’t Paul’s way of discernment and it wasn’t Jesus way either.

      + A SOLUTION - SLOW AND STEADY BIBLE MEDITATION
      This leaves us with a question of how we can become truly discerning? One thing we must keep in mind is that Discernment is an aspect of wisdom. And every famous wise person you have ever known, whether in real life or fiction, is wise because they were slow and steady thinkers of truth (cue the Gandalf and Yoda references). This slow and thoughtful disposition is not only an exercise of the mind, but of the whole spirit of a person. It is the posture of trust in the Holy Spirit’s ability to illuminate our minds and hearts to God’s truth as we meditate on his word. ^{(Psalm 1:1-3; 119:18)}

      If the Christian church is going to display Christ to the world, “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” ^{(Colossians 2:1)} it is going to mean becoming the kinds of people who slow down and meditate deeply on God’s word, trusting in God’s spirit to change us. It’s going to mean clearing away more distractions from our lives and getting excited again about the simple act of being with Jesus through his word.

      As we practice this kind of deep spiritual formation, the Lord promises to “make wise the sim]]> This project serves several churches in Southeast Asia, with a goal of continuing to expand the Kingdom through self-sustainable church planting. The Lanna Project seeks to develop leadership to sustain long-term vision, health and growth and to empower the church through business and agriculture to begin to plant their own churches without foreign financial assistance. The Lanna project currently serves five churches, and feels called to plant two more in the coming year. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=75 Sat, 30 Apr 2022 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/75/Missions-Update---The-Lanna-Project--April-2022 The Lanna ministry under the leadership of Chaloerm has continued to preach the gospel and make disciples, in spite of some restrictions due to the pandemic. The ministry is focused on 5 main locations, with the vision to plant 5-6 more house churches in the coming 1-2 years.

      Here are some recent highlights.

      

      Above | The Mae Phraow church is the oldest, largest and strongest of the churches. This is Chaloerm’s home village.

      Chaloerm has 14 disciples who are receiving Bible college level training. Pre-covid they travelled to Chiang Rai on Saturdays (1-2 x per month) to learn. During the pandemic the trainers gave Chaloerm the materials and he has been doing the training in the church. They are in the process of building a 2 story building next to the church that will be used for training, Sunday school, and (possibly) an office and guest room. They have built it using local funds and labor. Multiply has given about $2k CDN to help complete the project.

      

      Above | Training building and baptistry in Mae Phraow.
      
      Below | Praying for Chaloerm and some of the dicsiples in training.
      

      

      Another location is in Lampang, where the house church is led by Kamon. They recently changed locations due to noise complaints from the nieghbors and other issues with the landlord. Kamon is excited about the new location and sees the potential to evangelize a new area. Kamon wants a wife, so pray for him to be patient and led to God’s choice, and to not become impatient.

      A third location is in the city of Chiang Mai. The pandemic resulted in many of the church attenders moving away to find work as the factories closed. In addition, they were not allowed to meet in person or do outreach. Things are beginning to open up now, and they are re-starting kid’s ministries they had going before the restrictions. This ministry is led by Air, a young woman who recently finished Bible college.

      

      Above | Bob Davis sharing at the Chiang Mai church in Feb.

      The fourth location is a house church in Mae Chan, which is near Chiang Rai city. One of the local leaders from Mae Phraow travels there to connect with this young church. Chaloerm has invited some of the Khmu leaders in Chiang Rai province to help lead the work, since it is closer to them. There have been some visits made to encourage and teach.

      The fifth location is in Phayao, a large town to the northeast where there are many Khmu living and working. This ministry was just getting started when the pandemic hit, so it hasn’t really gotten going yet. Chaloerm has faith that many people will come to the Lord and a strong church will be planted there in the future.

      Other activities:

      Chaloerm loves to take his disciples out to do prayer ministry and evangelism. They do this on a regular basis.

      

      Chaloerm and Phonekeo took 2 van loads from the north down to visit the MB churches in central Thailand. They stayed in Pastor Banks church and held prayer and preaching meetings every night for a week. They hope to do more of these combined mission activities in the future.

      

       

      Find out more about The Lanna Project through Multiply.

      ---

      Got questions? We'd love to answer them!
      Please contact the Office -  office@centralcommunity.ca

      ]]> This past week, we were able to remember these words and reflect on the gatherings at Central's campuses across the Fraser Valley where the good news of Easter could be shared with so many. Following two long years of varying restrictions, the beginning of April brought with it the all-clear for Central to meet once again unhindered and at full capacity. Attendance for Easter services reached over 1,200 across our campuses, and even saw over 150 people turnout in Harrison for an Easter Egg Hunt outreach to the community. So many were able to hear, many for the first time, of the Love of God, the sacrifice Jesus made for each and every one of us, and how He has overcome the power of death. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=71 Thu, 28 Apr 2022 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/71/Elders-Update--April-2022

       And as they were frightened and bowed their faces to the ground, the men said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men and be crucified and on the third day rise.” And they remembered his words.
      

      LUKE 24:5-8
      

      ---

      
      This past week, we were able to remember these words and reflect on the gatherings at Central’s campuses across the Fraser Valley where the good news of Easter could be shared with so many. Following two long years of varying restrictions, the beginning of April brought with it the all-clear for Central to meet once again unhindered and at full capacity. Attendance for Easter services reached over 1,200 across our campuses, and even saw over 150 people turnout in Harrison for an Easter Egg Hunt outreach to the community. So many were able to hear, many for the first time, of the Love of God, the sacrifice Jesus made for each and every one of us, and how He has overcome the power of death.

      
      As we continue preparations for the Fall launch of the Harrison campus, we have been blown away by the outpouring of financial support in helping to establish the lone church in that community. While our conference continues its commitment to help with certain operating expenses, Northview Community Church in Abbotsford recently put together a building rehabilitation fundraiser and was blessed to be able to provide Central with $300,000 towards getting the church building ready for ministry for decades to come! What an amazing act of generosity and testimony to the much greater potential of God’s unified Church beyond what any individual church can accomplish alone.

      Monday, April 25 marked a final Harrison Insight Night at the Harrison campus as we now transition to investing in the core team that will plant the Harrison campus and participate striving to fulfill its vision in the Eastern Fraser Valley.

      This past Elder’s meeting was special as we were able to welcome several candidates who have emerged from the Elder nomination process to a time of sharing, questions and answers, and prayer together. We are thankful both to the congregation for the nominations and to the individuals who are seeking in earnest whether God is calling them into this role. Please be in prayer for the discernment team and each of the candidates as they continue navigating through this process.

      The trend of the past several months continued, and many people were able to join the Elders to pray with and to be prayed for prior to the meeting. This is a special time for the Elders to connect with the congregation and we are glad so many are taking the time to do so as we appreciate hearing from you and praying for you.

      In closing, please continue to be in prayer for our Lake Errock campus as renovations continue following the damages incurred by the flood. Though again, an item of praise regarding this, as a small group of churches came together to send a financial contribution to assist us in covering the costs. This is further evidence of what God’s Church can accomplish through the cheerful giving of its saints (2 Cor. 8:1-7).

      God bless,

      Tyler Schulz
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      FINANCE UPDATE

      As Central gears up to launch Harrison and continues to remediate the damage caused by the November flood in Lake Errock, the Elders noted that giving is strong this year even as expense are mounting. The Elders are grateful for the faithfulness of God’s people in their support of our vision to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley with the Gospel. Expenses are up too as we continue to outfit the Harrison building and address ongoing maintenance challenges across the campuses. Expenses related to ministries are in check and in keeping with patterns for previous years. 

      ]]> It has been a busy month at our church as most regular activities are in full swing. Also, we recently wrapped up a four-week Foundations class on doctrine that happened on Sunday nights. It started with eating a meal together as a church family. It was a special time enjoying fellowship and amazing food with each other, as well as great teaching on the core doctrine. There was time for discussion with one another which was great. I was also reminded through these discussions that while many of us disagree on secondary issues, we are united in Jesus and are so thankful we ultimately put all our hope in Him! That is such an encouragement. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=72 Thu, 24 Mar 2022 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/72/Elders-Update--March-2022

      Hi Central Family!

      This past Tuesday we had our monthly meeting and once again we started off spending time before the meeting praying with many from our congregation. We have much to be thankful for, but also the burdens of many of us in the church are heavy and it is a joy and an honour for us to pray with those that would like to join us before our meetings. We Elders all agree that it is one of the most special parts of leading in our Church.

      It has been a busy month at our church as most regular activities are in full swing. Also, we recently wrapped up a four-week Foundations class on doctrine that happened on Sunday nights. It started with eating a meal together as a church family. It was a special time enjoying fellowship and amazing food with each other, as well as great teaching on the core doctrine. There was time for discussion with one another which was great. I was also reminded through these discussions that while many of us disagree on secondary issues, we are united in Jesus and are so thankful we ultimately put all our hope in Him! That is such an encouragement.

      Speaking of encouragement, we had our AGM last week and we thank all of you who took the time to attend! While AGMs typically have the label of being a boring business meeting, our goal at Central is to explain the amazing things God has done in our Church and community, and what we believe He is going to do in the coming year. We spent time singing together, praying together, and Pastor Matt along with a few others, gave reports on the different ministries in the church. I did a devotion on Colossians 3 verses 1-17 and a few verses have really stuck with me.

      “12 Since God chose you to be the holy people he loves, you must clothe yourselves with tender-hearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. 13 Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. 14 Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. 15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful."

      I feel like these verses really summarize how our actions should be especially in the tough season we’ve been through. We realize that over the last two years many have struggled on all sides with decisions we’ve made at Central. We are humbled and grateful for those of you that have been faithful through this time. We realize that we haven’t always communicated well despite our best attempt to, and it is easy to feel disconnected, especially when for some time we weren’t meeting in person at all. We are so thankful for those of you that have prayed for us, encouraged us, and reached out when you’ve had questions or concerns. It is easy to follow leadership when they are doing exactly what you think they should be doing, but it shows true maturity and faith to follow when there are things that are a struggle for you. To those of you who fall into that group and are still worshipping with us, Thank you, and may God bless you.

      Our heart has always been to be faithful to God’s Word, and while we are imperfect men trying to lead well by God’s grace, we were so encouraged by the comments we received at the AGM. It was emotional for me after all we've been through the last two years to have ministry partners affirm at the AGM the way they did. We just wanted to echo that back to the congregation and express our gratitude for your faithfulness in giving and serving our church and community through this tough season the last couple years. Our pray is that together we can continue to reach the entire eastern Fraser Valley with the gospel.

      Paul Graham
      - On behalf of the Elders at Central Community

      ---

      FINANCE UPDATE
      

      As Central gears up to launch Harrison and continues to remediate the damage caused by the November flood in Lake Errock, the Elders noted that giving is strong this year even as expense are mounting. The Elders are grateful for the faithfulness of God’s people in their support of our vision to reach the Eastern Fraser Valley with the Gospel. General giving is up 24% over the same period last year. Expenses are up too as we begin to outfit the Harrison building and address ongoing maintenance challenges across the campuses. Expenses related to ministries are in check and in keeping with patterns for previous years.

      Capital investments for technology and facilities in Chilliwack, Promontory, and other campuses are adding to an overall year-to-date shortfall. Our current expenses exceed our year-to-date income by $60,553 ($70,667 for the same period last year). As we service our current campuses and provide what they need to accomplish our mission, and as we prepare to launch Harrison, the Elders invite you to consider your part in our God-given mission. Overall the Elders are encouraged by God’s provision through the church, and with the anticipated investment of the BCMB Conference and Northview Church in partnership .

      ]]> Many many years ago I remember sitting in my grandparents living room with my grandpa. It was always very warm in that little space which often induced sleepiness. He was a quiet man who struggled to hear, which made robust dialogue challenging. Trying to make conversation, I asked him what his favourite Bible verse was and he responded by saying it was Psalm 23. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=1 Wed, 02 Mar 2022 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/1/Live-in-the-23rd-Psalm

      Many many years ago I remember sitting in my grandparents living room with my grandpa. It was always very warm in that little space which often induced sleepiness. He was a quiet man who struggled to hear, which made robust dialogue challenging. Trying to make conversation, I asked him what his favourite Bible verse was and he responded by saying it was Psalm 23. I remember being kind of disappointed. I don't really know why, I'm not sure what I was expecting. But I suppose I diminished this portion of scripture due to its overuse and popularity. Which I see now as immaturity on my part.

      Because he was right. This text is an important one and it's fame is warranted.

      Many scripture's are important to study and meditate on during this cultural moment. But like my grandpa, I'm finding a special bond with the 23rd Psalm now more than ever. I'm sure you know it well. But perhaps you could use its stability and comfort as well.

      The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
          He makes me lie down in green pastures.
      He leads me beside still waters.
          He restores my soul.
      He leads me in paths of righteousness
          for his name's sake.

      Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
          I will fear no evil,
      for you are with me;
          your rod and your staff,
          they comfort me.

      You prepare a table before me
          in the presence of my enemies;
      you anoint my head with oil;
          my cup overflows.
      Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
          all the days of my life,
      and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord
          forever.

      This song of trust was written for such a time as this. An age fraught with so much fear. Just the first stanza reveals a level of comfort I'm not sure I can wrap my head around. Do you know the implications of what it means to say, I shall not want? Can we even fathom a posture so secure? These days, that seems impossible. Yet, it's not.

      What about the comfort of knowing the Lord desires our rest. Our laying down in green pastures and beside still waters is a priority for Him. Because that is what trust in the Lord's will actually looks like. This is the only place in which He can restore our soul. When we're anxiously trying to make our own will and way happen, there is no room for God to instill His peace into our inner-being. That only comes when we surrender control and lay down.

      We'll no doubt walk through dark times (much like these). And there will always be much to fear. Like there is today - illness, division, civil-unrest, war and an unclear future. Yet, as this hymn sings - He is with us.

      Our Heavenly Father is at the helm. And most importantly He is by our side.

      He's also reared and ready to protect us from evil. Fully equipped for the task, He will lovingly guide His children. How often do we walk in opposition to this truth? We fret and panic and seek hope in movements and human institutions. All while the Lord of the universe stands right next us and calls us to cling to Him alone.

      Our deeply hospitable and accommodating father not only wants our rest and comfort but He desires to sustain us while opposition watches. This is a picture of even our enemies seeing the goodness of God to His people. Our restoration is important to Him. An anointing of oil and an overflowing cup is a portrait of the loving rehabilitation He longs to give His people.

      No beleaguered saint can stay in their troubled state at the table of the Lord.

      And the promise of goodness and mercy for all days and into eternity is the hope we hold onto every step we take into the unknown. Because the house of the Lord is an eternal resting place where all these promises find their fullest form. Relief, security, comfort, sustenance and grace. This place is what we long for now. And our Great Shepherd is offering it to us both in the present and in the future. So what is there to fear?

      These promises are sure. And it is for this reason we can actually live in these green pastures. Any other source of temporary comfort is a silly and futile substitute for the glory of God's care. We can sit at this table now. But only if we allow Him to take us to it.

      He wants your soul to be at peace. So is it?

      This Psalm may be the most compelling apologetic we can model in front of people who don't know God. Especially in these confusing times. Some of the best kind of arguments we can make to prove the existence of the Lord, are the ones lived out peacefully in front of others. Because of this Psalm and many other Holy texts we have good reason to be a non-anxious presence before the eyes of our children and neighbours. And with this level of trust in the care of the Lord we can pass on this security to the many among us who are crippled with fear.

      My late grandpa lived through a lot of difficult history. He knew hunger and hard work. He saw oppression and tragedy. And He lived as one with much comfort and hope in the promises of God. He blessed the Lord for the tender hand of Christ. Because there was too much at stake to live any other way. The still waters of restoration are ours if we want it.

      Make us more like my grandpa,
      And find me in that meadow with the Good Shepherd.

      ]]> When I was mapping out our preaching schedule for 2021/2022 I knew I wanted to teach a series on The Doctrine of the Trinity after reading Michael Reeves' wonderful book, Delighting In The Trinity this past summer. Precisely because God is a Trinity we get a clearer picture of what God is like in the movements Before Creation, In Creation, In Salvation, and In The Christian Life. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=5 Thu, 20 Jan 2022 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/5/The-Holy-Trinity

      When I was mapping out our preaching schedule for 2021/2022 I knew I wanted to teach a series on The Doctrine of the Trinity after reading Michael Reeves' wonderful book, Delighting In The Trinity this past summer. Precisely because God is a Trinity we get a clearer picture of what God is like in the movements Before Creation, In Creation, In Salvation, and In The Christian Life. 

      Why is God love? Because God is a Trinity. Why can we be saved? Because God is a Trinity. How are we able to live the Christian life? Through the Trinity.

      What I also knew was that I wanted some visuals that both "explained" the Trinity and acknowledged "the mystery" of the Trinity. That's when I asked Michelle Vandyk if I could commission her to do an art piece. By "commission" I mean "pay for the supplies" :) She generously poured hours upon hours into the creative process of prepping and painting this work of art entitled, "The Holy Trinity" that you will see on the stage of our Chilliwack Campus and in our online services throughout the series.

       

      I asked Michelle to explain some of the elements in the piece and what follows are excerpts from her response:

      "Thanks so much for the opportunity to paint this piece for the church. I am honoured. It challenged me artistically and in my faith in that I had to trust in the guidance of the Holy Spirit. I feel like I was just scratching the surface in terms of symbolism of the Trinity- there was so much more I could paint! I felt that in the portrayal of too many symbols/images, that the flow and feeling could get lost."

      In terms of what I was thinking while painting the Trinity:

       Colour

      The primary colours are blue, red and yellow, so it seemed fitting that I would use each to represent an aspect of the Trinity. 

      1. Blue seemed most fitting for God the Father - I’m pretty sure blue is his favourite colour ;) looking at the percentage of the earth that is blue… in our culture blue also symbolizes stability and peace. 
      2. Red seemed most fitting for Jesus Christ in that he shed his blood for our salvation. Red is also the colour of passion, and Jesus loves us passionately- enough to give up his life for us.
      3. Yellow seemed most fitting for the Holy Spirit. He lights the fire in us spiritually, and is our guide and counsellor in this dark world. He illuminates God’s Word for us. He is associated with fire (Pentecost and the burning bush in Exodus)
      4. Green, purple and orange are secondary colours- the results of 2 primaries mixing (working together). This is evident in the lines where the Trinity intersects. Green is the colour associated with life and growth, orange is the colour associated with fire and energy, and purple is associated with royalty and precious stones and mystery. 
      5. I included a bit of each primary within each sphere of the Trinity, which represents 3 aspects of 1 God. Each part of the Trinity is separate and equal, but still part of 1 Holy God. 

       

      Symbolism

      God the Father
      
      The  Mountain represents God the Father. He is the Creator and is majestic, strong, and steadfast. Streams of living water flow from him. In the OT God’s Holy Mountain is mentioned many times. He is our ever-present help in times of trouble (Psalms)  

      • Crown - God the Father is King over all. Everything that exists is under his authority. 
      • Alpha and Omega- God always was, is, and is to come. He is infinite. 
      • Rays of glory emanate from God- he alone is holy, and when Moses was in God’s Presence, He glowed so brightly afterwards that no one could look at him. In the New Jerusalem there will be no light from the sun because God the Father and God the Son will be our light.

      God the Son

      • The most recognized symbol of Jesus is the cross. He gave up his life and became the sacrifice needed to pay the price for our sin so we can be in right relationship with God the Father. 
      • The globe (world) symbolizes Jesus’ special relationship with us in that he came down from his place in heaven at the right side of God the Father to become one of us in the flesh so he could teach us how to be followers and part of the family of God so we could be his hands and feet on earth. John 3:16 - for God so loved the world…The world is placed on the cross because that is how God worked salvation for us. 
      • Cornerstone of the church- the cross is rooted in the church and it symbolizes the church as the bride of Christ, by his blood he made us pure and holy (white stones with red cornerstone)
      • Branch- Jesus is the Righteous Branch from the stump of Jesse. He is the giver of new life and growth in him. If we ‘plant’ ourselves in Christ we will be like a tree planted by the water (Jeremiah 17). 
      • Living Water- Jesus is our Living Water- he provides life and peace for our souls.
      • Red/white ’stripes’- (body and blood of Christ) by his stripes we are healed…

      God the Holy Spirit

      • The most recognized symbol of the Holy Spirit is a dove- shown as a sign from God when Jesus was baptized. The dove was also a sign of new life after the flood (olive branch in mouth).
      • Heart- not depicted but implied by the red within the flame. I struggled with this as I thought a heart may look too ‘trite’ and kitchy. I could add it if you think otherwise. The Holy Spirit gives us a new heart so we can understand and accept the Gospel- to repent of our sin and to accept Jesus as our Lord and Saviour. 
      • Flames- The Holy Spirit came at Pentecost like 'tongues of fire’ and entered all of the Believer’s hearts.The Holy Spirit ignited a holy fire in us so we can love God and each other. 

      Gold ring- Gold is one of the most precious elements on earth, and symbolizes richness and purity. The ring symbolizes God as one and eternal. He has no beginning and no end. He encompasses all that there is.    3 Gold ‘leaves’ intersect each other and form the trinity symbol in the centre signifying our Holy God as the Trinity- God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit- 3 separate but equal aspects of God in one Being.    Linear style- I used flowing lines to create a sense of movement. Our God is living and active, He is working all things for his glory and good. He is not an idol who is idle. He is alive, working in us and through us for his purpose and plan. The lines intersect to show that God is fluid, working through all 3 aspects at the same time ( not 3 separate entities working separately, but 3 separate aspects of one God working together to accomplish a singular perfect, choreogra]]> Halloween is one of the most captivating days of the year. For Christians, it can also be polarizing. Perhaps this is due to the fact that Halloween has always had a convoluted history. (It's roots are a mixture of the Catholic celebration of "All Hallows Eve" and the Pagan festival of "Samhain"). Or perhaps it is because our involvement in the day touches on one of those "gray areas" that the Bible doesn't explicitly address. For these reasons and more, Christians remain all over the map in how they view Halloween and how they choose to participate in it or not. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=7 Tue, 26 Oct 2021 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/7/TellYourKidsAGhostStory

      Halloween is one of the most captivating days of the year. For Christians, it can also be polarizing. Perhaps this is due to the fact that Halloween has always had a convoluted history. (It’s roots are a mixture of the Catholic celebration of “All Hallows Eve” and the Pagan festival of “Samhain”). Or perhaps it is because our involvement in the day touches on one of those “gray areas” that the Bible doesn’t explicitly address. For these reasons and more, Christians remain all over the map in how they view Halloween and how they choose to participate in it or not.

      But regardless of one’s view on how to participate in the day itself, for parents it presents one of the best times all year to teach our kids the Bible!

      The reason for this is that Christian parents cannot hide their children from seeing the images of Halloween (at least not fully) and this means that we must be in dialogue with our kids to help them think biblically about the various subjects that these images point to. Halloween brings up subjects like evil, death, darkness and the spiritual realm and God’s word is full of stories about these very things. Our kids are naturally drawn to Halloween because ghost stories remain some of the most mysterious and fascinating subjects to study. What a great opportunity to join our kids in what intrigues them and use it to point them to Jesus.

      I became acutely aware of how intrigued my kids were with Halloween when they were in pre-school and I tried to be a good dad and guard them from seeing evil masks, ghosts and bloody werewolves. But however hard I tried, they would inevitably see these images at a neighbours house, school or even at the hardware store. And when my kids saw these images, they were like a moth to a flame! They were endlessly fascinated with the dark side.

      As a parent I have a choice to make every year about these things, will I just pretend my kids had not seen these haunting images of evil and death? Or will I redeem the opportunity to point them to Jesus and his word? I must admit I have not always been stellar at this, but each year I have that choice as a parent. When I have taken the opportunity presented, it has often led to some great conversations. I get to tell them interesting stories about evil, ghosts and magic that are in the Bible and often my kids are surprised that the Bible has such interesting stories.  

      With that said, here are a few suggestions for using Halloween to draw your kids to Scripture:

      + Expose your kids to Bible stories that interact with Evil, Death and the Spiritual Realm
      These are not difficult to find. From the visit of the serpent to tempt Eve in the Garden of Eden in Genesis 3, to King Saul consulting with the Medium of Endor in 1 Samuel 28, or Jesus casting out a legion of evil spirits from the Demoniac in Mark 5. There is ample opportunity to use Halloween as a springboard to expose your kids to these fascinating stories. (I have included a list of stories that you can either read or retell your kids below.)

      + Teach your kids that Evil, Death and the Spiritual Realm are Real
      When my kids were very young, it was tempting for me as a parent to tell them that all of the evil images of Halloween were “fake’ and “not real”. I was trying to help them not be afraid of course. But I was also dismissing their fears by doing this and denying reality. My kids could tell that evil was real and all of the Halloween symbols pointed to this fact. The irony in this is that most people who celebrate Halloween today are not doing so because they believe in spiritual things but because they often don’t believe. It’s all a bit of fun and dress-up and candy. So it is important that I don’t give my kids the impression that there is nothing evil or spiritual in this world and that it’s all a bunch of nonsense.

      When King Saul went to consult with the “medium of Endor” this was a real encounter with the spirit realm. And the Apostle Paul reminds us that we are constantly in a battle “not against flesh and blood, but against… the cosmic powers of darkness, against evil, spiritual forces in the heavens.” (Eph 6:12) So instead of saying to our kids, “none of that stuff is real” we have learned to simply say, “evil is real, we don’t love it though, we love Jesus and he has power over evil.”

      + Teach kids that the Sin inside us is a greater threat than the Monsters outside
      The most interesting part of Saul’s encounter with the medium of Endor is that the evil in the story is more about Saul’s evil than the medium’s evil. The evil inside of Israel’s king is a greater threat than the evil coming from the medium. In fact, the medium in the story ends up displaying far more Godly features than Saul does, even taking care of him while he is weak and frail (see 1 Samuel 28:22-25). The witch hunts during the 16^th-17^th century are also a horrific example of how well-meaning Christians at the time became so fear-driven about the evil outside of them that they committed far worse injustices than the so-called witches they punished. It is important that children learn that evil can take many forms and it is not always the monsters under their bed that are most threatening. Halloween gives us a great opportunity to talk to our kids about sin within our hearts and how we can respond to Jesus good news of salvation by turning from sin and trusting in him for eternal life. This conversation must be done with grace and wisdom of course and at age-appropriate levels.

      + Teach your kids not to fear Evil, Death and the Spiritual Realm
      While we don’t celebrate the darker side of Halloween at the Ross household, we have taught our kids not to be afraid. Fear of anything other than God usually leads to something bad. But Christians have no need to fear evil and death because our savior has already conquered evil through his death and resurrection (Gal 1:3, 1 Cor 15:54-58). So while we try our best to avoid walking through the darkest parts of the Halloween decoration section with our kids, we also tell them, “don’t be afraid, Jesus has power over evil things.” (see Mark 5). This of course is easier said than done. We are human and we often struggle with fear and our kids especially. But as parents we have the privilege of being a non-anxious presence in our kids lives and reassuring them with words of comfort when they are afraid.

      So take the opportunity that Halloween brings to point your kids to God’s word, allowing Jesus to shape their minds and hearts for His Glory!

      List of Bible Stories for Halloween (Tales of evil, death, magic and the spiritual realm)

      OLD TESTAMENT
      + Genesis 3 – The Serpent in the Garden of Eden
      + Exodus 7:1-13 – Moses versus Egypt’s magicians
      + Numbers 22-24 – Balaam’s attempted curse on Israel
      + Deuteronomy 18:9-14 – Moses instructions against Evil Magic Practices
      + 1 Samuel 28 – King Saul and the Medium of Endor
      + 1 Kings 22 – King Ahab and the False Prophets
      + 2 Kings 6 – Elisha and the Invisible Army

      NEW TESTAMENT
      + Matthew 4:1-11 – Jesus tempted by the Devil
      + Mark 1:21-28 - Jesus Heals Man with Unclean spirit
      + Mark 5:1-20 – Jesus Heals Man with Legion of Demons
      + John 11 – Jesus Raises Lazarus
      + Luk]]> This post is part 5 of a 5 part blog series called 'Shaped By The Gospel' on the subjects of race, politics, individualism, sexuality, and materialism. What does it look like to be shaped by the gospel on relevant issues shaping our culture? https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=8 Wed, 11 Aug 2021 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/8/Shaped-By-The-Gospel-Materialism

      This post is part 5 of a 5 part blog series called ‘Shaped By The Gospel’ on the subjects of race, politics, individualism, sexuality, and materialism. What does it look like to be shaped by the gospel on relevant issues shaping our culture?

      Materialism has to do with living like the material world is all there is. If someone’s focus is on money and the things money can buy we would say that person is materialistic or in our day-and-age, typical.

      In the early 1990s, researchers Marsha Richins and Scott Dawson developed the first scale to measure materialism rigorously. According to this scale, people are materialistic to the extent that they place acquiring possessions at the centre of their lives, judge success by the number and quality of one’s possessions, and see these possessions as vital to happiness. Here’s the kicker: For more than two decades, studies have consistently found that people who score high on the materialism scale score lower on just about every major scale that scientists use to measure happiness. One of the great challenges in our society today is that on the whole people feel more anxious, chronically lonely, and less happy. Materialism certainly has a role to play in that.

      Chilliwack’s median household income of $67,800 places us in the wealthiest 1.2% of people in the world. While of all the G7 countries, Canadians have the highest percentage of consumer debt. We have extravagant wealth and extravagant debt. As followers of Jesus we have encountered the extravagant gospel. But has it resulted in extravagant generosity on your part?

      Are you being shaped more by the gospel or the culture when it comes to materialism?

      In the gospels, Jesus spoke more about money than heaven and hell combined, which is astounding because Jesus spoke a lot about heaven and hell. Here’s why. Because Jesus is after your heart and your heart has a propensity toward the idolatry of materialism.

      So, the following is a brief theology of money and possessions and how the gospel should inform how we see and utilize them.

      1. MATERIAL POSSESSIONS ARE A GOOD GIFT FROM GOD MEANT FOR HIS PEOPLE TO ENJOY

      This is a crucial starting place. Material possession are not bad or ambiguous but good. Repeated after every major stage of creation for a total of seven times in Genesis 1 is the phrase, God saw that it was good. God saw everything that he had made and it was very good. Land, animals, resources, people. The blessing and abundance of the garden were created for humans to enjoy.

      Christianity is unique in that we aren’t trying to reach some state of nirvana or dualism where the material is bad and we want to reach a disembodied state of bliss apart from it. Christianity has been said to be very earthy. God created the world around us and called it good and it is to be enjoyed — and our future is an embodied future, living forever in a real city with real roads, and real trees.

      But here is what we must understand, they’re means, not ends. Yet our culture is addicted to them as ends. Your next vacation isn’t an end, that dream house isn’t an end, a certain dollar figure in your bank account isn’t an end. Rather, material possessions are good gifts from God meant to be enjoyed but as a means for enjoying God. Ironically, if we treat the means as ends we will find that we are very poor and missing the true riches of life.

      
      2. TRUST IN MONEY AND POSSESSIONS IS A MEANS OF TURNING HUMAN HEARTS FROM GOD

      Very few things steal our affections for Christ like the love of money.

      This is a theme throughout the Bible that serves as a warning for us. Cain and Abel were the first sibling rivalry and it didn’t end well. Abel’s offering was generous, costly, the best-of what he possessed. Cain’s wasn’t and his response revealed his heart. The same is true of the Israelites wandering in the wilderness. God provided manna but told them only to gather enough for the day, and yet many of them went on to hoard more than they needed only to find it infested with worms the next morning.

      Job 31:24-28 warns us not to put our trust in gold for our security and yet how many of us trust our bank accounts, finding our security in money, not God. In Jeremiah 9:23-24, God instructs us not to boast in our riches and yet that’s precisely what our culture revels in today.

      Nineteenth century English theologian J.C. Ryle hits us between the eyes with this convicting statement, “Many are ready to give up every thing for Christ’s sake, excepting one darling sin, and for the sake of that sin are lost for evermore…The love of money, secretly nourished in the heart, is enough to bring a man, in other respects moral and irreproachable, down to the pit of hell.” Is materialism your one darling sin?

      Trust in money and possessions is a means of turning hearts from God. Look at what the Apostle Paul writes to Pastor Timothy in Ephesus, a wealthy city: For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. It is through this craving that some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pangs (1 Timothy 6:10). 1 Timothy 6:17 goes on to summarize it this way: As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God. Money and possessions are fleeting things and these fleeting things dangerously lurk to steal your affections away from Christ.

      The only prayer in Proverbs says, give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with the food that is needful for me, 9lest I be full and deny you and say, “Who is the Lord?” or lest I be poor and steal and profane the name of my God (Proverbs 30:8-9). Either way there is risk and temptation for our hearts with great wealth or poverty — it’s a prayer for needs met, not greeds met — its a prayer for daily bread. It’s a good prayer because our inordinate desire for wealth is actually a rival for our affections.

      
      3. ENCOUNTERING THE GENEROSITY OF THE GOSPEL MAKES US GENEROUS

      Money and possessions can’t fill our lives with the kinds of deep satisfactions that we’re after because they only reach their true fulfillment in Jesus. 2 Corinthians 8:9 says, For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor, so that you by his poverty might become rich. Rich how? Receiving salvation and all its benefits.

      And if we’ve been captured by the generosity of God in the gospel, the gospel will inevitably make us generous. Contrast the Rich Young Ruler with Zachheaus. Jesus wasn’t the Rich Young Ruler’s treasure, money was. Zaccheaus, on the other hand, encountered the generous gospel and so money was no longer his god, so he becomes generous with it. Or contrast Ananias and Sapphira with Barnabas. Ananias and Sapphira tried to fake it on the outside when it wasn’t really there on the inside. Barnabas, on the other hand, had really experienced the freedom of faith in Christ on the inside and that was demonstrated on the outside through his freedom from the love of things and instead a heart for the poor and needy.

      When we truly encounter the generosity of the gospel, we become generous people.

      
      4. CHRISTIANS ARE STEWARDS OF EVERYTHING ENTRUSTED TO US, NOT OWNERS

      A gospel view of possessions begins with a right understanding of who everything belongs to: Everything belongs to God. Psalm 24:1 says, The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, a]]> This post is part 4 of a 5 part blog series called 'Shaped By The Gospel' on the subjects of race, politics, individualism, sexuality, and materialism. What does it look like to be shaped by the gospel on relevant issues shaping our culture? https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=9 Wed, 04 Aug 2021 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/9/Shaped-By-The-Gospel-Sexuality

      This post is part 4 of a 5 part blog series called ‘Shaped By The Gospel’ on the subjects of race, politics, individualism, sexuality, and materialism. What does it look like to be shaped by the gospel on relevant issues shaping our culture?

      About 10 years ago Christians who hold a historic, biblical, sexual ethic were seen as old-fashioned. Today, this same ethic is seen as bigoted and dangerous. Is it? Do we need to abandon the biblical vision for sexuality in order to get on the right side of history?

      At the core, our view of sexuality is shaped by defining what we believe sex is for and who defines it. Modern Western culture prioritizes discovery of our authentic selves and living out what we find there at all costs. But from a Christian perspective, who I am in relation to God is my authentic self. These are very diverging visions.

      This article responds to this question: What does it look like to be shaped by the gospel when it comes to our sexuality? We’re going to see what the Bible has to say about sexuality and seek to follow the basic arc and storyline of the Bible on it.

      THE PURPOSE OF SEX
      The only way to know how we should act sexually toward others is to first answer the question, What is sex for?. The Bible’s answer to this foundational question is fundamentally different than society’s answer to the question: Self expression & Self-fulfillment. According to God—the Creator of sex—there are 3 primary purposes for sex. Sam Allberry points them out as follows in his book, Why Does God Care Who I Sleep With?

      1. Procreation
         God’s first command in the Bible involves and necessitates sex: Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth (Genesis 1:28). It is both a blessing and a command. So a purpose for sex that we discover in the first page of the Bible is that sex between a man and a woman is a procreative act. Even if a child isn’t conceived, male and female sex is nonetheless oriented toward the procreation of new life.
      2. Oneness
         One isn’t about numeric value but about unity: Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh (Genesis 2:24). Deuteronomy 6 tells us, The Lord is One. In Genesis 1:26 we see God say Let us make in our image, hinting at a plurality to God; and yet He is One. And this is something of the unity and union we see reflected between Adam & Eve. They are One in a way that reflects or images how God is One. And it’s not unity in sameness or in uniformity but in difference. The two become One Flesh.
         
         When a couple has sex, something changes in their relationship. It bonds them. They’ve entered a deeper unity that is not only spiritual, but also emotional, relational, and scientific research confirms that this bonding also takes place on a neurochemical level. A key neurochemical important to healthy sex and bonding is oxytocin. It’s sometimes referred to as the “love hormone”. The release of oxytocin generates bonding and trust with another person, especially in females.
         
         God meant for this to be a beautifully bonding experience that blesses and enriches marriages. The consequences can be destructive and soul-numbing when we flippantly bond our bodies to many others. Or in unhealthy manipulative and abusive circumstances where, for example, a young woman bonds herself to a guy who uses her rather than cherishes her.
         
         Another neurotransmitter in the brain is dopamine, which is the chemical that mediates pleasure in the brain. It’s the “feel good” hormone. A dopamine rush to the brain can create a sense of euphoria. Viewing pornography has the same affect as cocaine in the pleasure centre of the brain through dopamine. In recent years young men have come out saying that porn is ruining their lives. These dopamine hits that porn brought them over and over again actually began to rewire their brains so much so that they were incapable of having sex with a real life person.
         
         I want you to see both God’s beautiful design and intent as well as some of the ways that we misuse it. So a second purpose for sex that we see in the opening pages of Scripture is the sexual union creates a physiological, emotional, and spiritual oneness — intended for a husband and wife in the context of committed love — to reflect something of the Oneness of the Trinity.
      3. Foreshadowing Something Greater
         The “One Flesh” union between a husband and wife in covenant-keeping love is a bond that entails an emotional, relational, spiritual, and physical element. And this kind of holistic union foreshadows the greater union to come. The purpose of sex — designed by God as a gift — is a blessing and command to have children, create oneness, unity, and pleasure in marriage, and ultimately is a foreshadow of an even greater union to come for all those who follow Jesus.

      THE PROBLEM OF SEX
      Because we live in a fallen world we don’t always experience sexuality in the way God designed it to be experienced. Christopher West’s categories of sexual formation, Fill These Hearts Presents 3 “Diets” that speak to the way the church and the surrounding world understand sexuality and spirituality: The Starvation Diet, The Fast-Food Diet, and The Banquet — and Rich Villodas interacts with these in his book The Deeply Formed Life.

      1. The Starvation Diet
         Many people of faith live on a starvation diet. It’s the diet that sees our longings and desires (particularly our sexual longings and desires) as aspects of our humanity that need to be rejected, suppressed, or ignored. This kind of theology permeates our churches so much that even talking about desire, sex, and longings is done in whispers. Sex and sexuality are territories to be avoided at all costs. Instead of the church being the community and place to help people make sense of their longings, the longings are seen as antithetical to a robust spirituality. Notoriously, in order to emotionally survive, those who subscribed to this diet often ended up living secret, duplicitous lives, looking for illegitimate outlets to meet their legitimate longings. The unfortunate consequence in this is seeing our bodies, pleasure, and sexuality as impediments to true spirituality. There must be appropriate space within our lives with God to say no to some of the desires and passions that arise in us — yet many of us have erroneously believed that God is only pleased in the suppression of our passions.
         
         The starvation diet—so prevalent in the church today—keeps so many of us from feeling like it’s even possible to share our temptations, trials, and sexual sin, which the devil loves, and we all suffer for. If you relate to this starvation diet, something you can ask yourself is, “Who can I talk to who would compassionately understand and lovingly encourage me toward hope, healing, and wholeness?” If we can’t talk about this stuff in the church in the day and age we’re living in then something is deeply wrong with our Christian community.
      2. The Fast-Food Diet
         If the starvation diet is about repression, the fast-food diet is about reduction. This diet is the attempt to reduce our deepest longings to our physical desires. Whereas the first diet shapes many in the church, this diet is broadly consumed by many in the surrounding world. This diet says, “Whatever your desire, you deserve to have it me]]> This post is part 3 of a 5 part blog series called 'Shaped By The Gospel' on the subjects of race, politics, individualism, sexuality, and materialism. What does it look like to be shaped by the gospel on relevant issues shaping our culture? https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=10 Wed, 28 Jul 2021 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/10/Shaped-By-The-Gospel-Individualism

         This post is part 3 of a 5 part blog series called ‘Shaped By The Gospel’ on the subjects of race, politics, individualism, sexuality, and materialism. What does it look like to be shaped by the gospel on relevant issues shaping our culture?

         Individualism may be the most common thing we never talk about. It is usually assumed before we even begin a conversation and we rarely put into the spotlight to consider the presuppositions we have made. Yet the call of a Christian is always to inspect those assumptions and bring them to the Word of God. How does the gospel help us understand who we are as people and our responsibility to one another?

         Defining Our Terms:
         Before we go any further, we need to understand what is meant by Individualism as it has a number of facets and has been used in many different ways. At its basis, Individualism is a system of thought that sees a person as distinct from the collective. That each person has their own unique gifts, talents, thoughts and perspectives and they ought to be evaluated and valued on that basis. In contrast to this kind of thinking is Collectivism which would put the value and good of the many above the value and good of the individual. Individualism is very much the foundation for much of Western society and how we operate from a governmental level to a personal level. And that has been a blessing in many ways. The mindset of Individualism has given us freedom of speech, freedom of worship and freedom of expression all things for which we ought to be grateful. The freedom we enjoy to gather and worship God and even evangelize come from this framework.

         Expressive Individualism:
         But when we think about how Individualism is put into practice today, it takes on a very different form. What we see in songs and television and on the internet is what is often called Expressive Individualism. Expressive Individualism is the belief that a person’s greatest happiness and fulfilment in life comes through personal self-representation and realization. Essentially it boils down to, “Being your most authentic self.” “Express who you really are.” “You be you.” If you could simply express who you are on the inside as accurately and fully as possible, you will be happy, fulfilled and lead a better life. It is the framework of individualism that is taken to an intensely personal level and then tied to the belief that it will lead to greater happiness, if not a completely utopian society. And this is perhaps the greatest point of friction between the message of expressive individualism and the Bible. But if we are going to understand how the Bible calls us to a different line of thinking (and a more beautiful one!) we need to understand the assumptions that are being made.

         1. Assumption #1: People are essentially good. This is the biggest assumption that is made in expressive individualism. That at the core of our being as humans, is an essentially morally good nature. So when people do bad things, it is simply a result of poor education, insufficient good opportunities, or an imbalanced cultural bias. If those were stripped away, we would all be good people. Therefore, to express who we are underneath is an essentially good thing.
         2. Assumption #2: Unhindered self-expression leads to greater happiness. If we could simply express who we are without feeling any pressure, guilt, or barrier we would be happy and fulfilled in our lives. The greatest threat to our happiness is any form of external constraint or restriction. Therefore, if we are to be fulfilled in life, we need to be able to express ourselves without hindrance from anyone or any system.
         3. Assumption #3: Only the individual can know what is best for them. This is the final assumption that is built on the previous two that claims that ultimate knowledge of what is going to be beneficial for a person can only truly be known by that person. While those around you can guide, no one can tell you who you are, what you should do or how you should act. And any system or institution that tries to do so is suspect at best, and outright evil at worst.
            These three assumptions provide the undergirding for the expressive individualism that we see most commonly around us. Certainly, we could add more and not every person is going to frame their thinking in exactly these ways. Nonetheless, it gives us the shape of how many people view not only themselves but their purpose on earth.

         A Biblical Worldview:
         So how does the Bible respond to these assumptions? We need to guard ourselves from simply giving a knee-jerk reaction to this kind of thinking and merely doing the opposite. We want to be Biblical in our thinking, not anti-cultural. So how does God’s Word to us shape our understanding of these things?

         1. Biblical Response #1: Human beings are made in God’s image but have been distorted by sin. The first assumption that is made in expressive individualism is the source of divergence from a Biblical worldview. The Bible begins with the assertion that human beings made in God’s image and are therefore good. (Gen 1:27) However, when Adam and Eve sin in the Garden of Eden all creation from that point on sits under the curse of sin. The good creation that God made has been distorted and corrupted by sin. And that corruption extends even to the innermost parts of our life. Jeremiah will say of our hearts, “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately sick; who can understand it?” (Jer 17:9) And Paul will conclude, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Rom 3:23) The Biblical view of who we are as human beings is sinful. While we are not as depraved as we could possibly be, every aspect of our being has been touched and distorted by sin. And as we look out at what goes on in our world, I believe this offers a better explanation for human behaviour than simply a lack of education, opportunity and upbringing. We see violence, hatred, racism, exploitation and destruction commonplace in our world both in and out of first world countries. It ultimately reflects hearts that are fixed on sin. Even when we consider our own heart inclinations, we find that they are not always pure. We act not out of ignorance, but because at times our hearts want to harm others. We are at our core sinful.
         2. Biblical Response #2: Unhindered self-expression is destructive. If the core of who we are has been infected and distorted by sin, to express everything that goes on in our hearts will not bring greater joy, but greater sorrow. Most people recognize this immediately, as not all self-expression is accepted as good. For those who are tempted towards harming others in predatory ways, we do not encourage or tolerate that kind of behaviour. One of the ways that God brings judgment is simply allow us to continue in sin without stopping. Romans 1:28 says, “And since they did not see fit to acknowledge God, God gave them up to a debased mind to do what ought not to be done.” When God gives someone up unhindered sin, it is not a sign of joy but a tragedy.
         3. Biblical Response #3: We need the Word of God to instruct us on what is best. If we are sinful in our inner being and if simply expressing what is in our hearts is destructive, we then need the Word of God to show us how to live. We could spend a long time on this point, but at its root we can say with the Psalmist, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” God reveals to us not only how we ought to live before God and what will lead to our greatest fulfilment and joy.

         The Gospel’s Transformatio]]> This post is part 2 of a 5 part blog series called 'Shaped By The Gospel' on the subjects of race, politics, individualism, sexuality, and materialism. What does it look like to be shaped by the gospel on relevant issues shaping our culture? https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=11 Wed, 21 Jul 2021 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/11/Shaped-By-The-Gospel-Politics

         This post is part 2 of a 5 part blog series called ‘Shaped By The Gospel’ on the subjects of race, politics, individualism, sexuality, and materialism. What does it look like to be shaped by the gospel on relevant issues shaping our culture?

         Politics is one of the subjects you’re not supposed to talk about at the dinner table…or in the pulpit. Yet, 1. The Bible talks about it, and 2. It is one of the most polarizing issues of our moment. So how can followers of Jesus think Christianly about politics? And how can we see engaging the political structures of our city, province, and country as opportunities to love our neighbours?

         We get the word politics from the root word polis, meaning a bound city surrounded by a wall. Politicos was the word for the terms by which those in the bound city committed to live together. In that sense, what Jesus started was a political movement. What is the church? A covenant people bound by their allegiance to Jesus and His love for them & that live by a radically different value system as the people of God. The politicos of the Church is a multi-ethnic, global people in the midst of various local political structures living by a higher politicos right in the midst of Babylon. The Book of Revelation refers to Babylon as the kingdom of this world and Christians are to
         embody the priorities of the Kingdom of God.

         Now, we shouldn’t expect heaven on earth and Christian values to permeate secular culture but we should understand that we’re sent by God into the culture as ministers of reconciliation to make it more like the age to come.

         THE POLITICS OF THE EARLY CHURCH

         I find the way that the early church in Rome put their Christian faith into practice in the public square instructive for us today. It is important to note that Rome viewed the early church as a political threat and that’s why they were persecuted. In 'Destroyer of the gods’  Larry Hurtado unpacks the Early Christian Distinctiveness in the Roman World and argues that they were a unique kind of human community that defied categories and still do to this day. He reveals five distinct elements that constitute the early church’s social vision.
         
         1. Distinctively Multi-Ethnic
         When a person of any race or culture put their faith in Christ, it gave them a new perspective on their inherited culture and a new multi-ethnic community, the first one formed by any religion. Previously, you were born into your religion. Each race, country, and location had its own gods, and therefore no one ever chose their gods or their religion. Rather, you simply inherited the religion that was essentially an extension of your culture. That meant that all the people who shared your religion were culturally homogeneous. Your race determined your faith. Enter Christianity and it transcended ethnic lines and brought people together as family who otherwise never would have interacted. This made the Christian Church distinctively multi-ethnic and they valued their unity through diversity.

         2. Highly committed to Caring for the Poor & Marginalized
         Based on Jesus’ Good Samaritan parable (Luke 10:25-37), the early church shockingly embraced all who were in need. The Roman emperor Julian famously remarked that the radical Christian practice of “caring not only for their own poor, but for ours as well” was both offensive and attractive. Christians were distinct in that they valued caring for all who were in need, not simply their own people. When a plague broke out in Rome in the third century, the wealthy fled to the country (including physicians) and when people’s loved ones got sick their families would put them out in the street to die. Christians went and gathered up the sick and cared for them, sometimes at their own peril. Christianity thrived in light of this selflessness, vividly displaying the Christian vision of care for the poor and marginalized.

         3. Non-retaliatory, marked by a Commitment to Forgiveness
         The early Christians were notable in that, if you attacked or killed them, they did not organize retaliation or get revenge. They were famous for experiencing death in arenas or by execution as they prayed for their persecutors, following the examples of Stephen and Jesus Himself. The Christian teaching on forgiveness and “turning the other cheek” created a community of peace-making, reconciliation, and bridge-building.

         4. Strongly & practically Against Abortion & Infanticide
         Christians were dead-set against both abortion and infanticide, but not merely in principle. They found and took in infants who were thrown out to die or be harvested by slavers. The early church was “pro-life,” especially in the sense that they recognized no gradations of human value. In a tribalized, socially-stratified shame-and honour culture, that was shocking. Just as the early church was distinctively multiethnic—seeing all as having dignity and worth because they are made in the image of God—so Christianity sees the youngest and most helpless as sacred image-bearers also and therefore valuable.

         5. Revolutionary Sexual Ethics
         In the Roman world, sex was merely an “appetite”. Its purpose was to serve the social order. Married women could not have sex with anyone but their husbands. But men—even married ones—could have sex with any male or female they wanted, so long as it was with someone of less honour and social class. Christianity’s revolutionary teaching detached sex and marriage from the social order and connected it to the cosmic—to God’s saving love and redemption. God gave Himself to us by going to the cross, and we must respond by giving ourselves utterly and exclusively to him and no other god. This saving love brought about an astonishing union between two radically different beings—God and humanity.
         Therefore, sex was for giving one’s whole life in a consensual marriage covenant that fostered deep unity across the difference of male and female and combined their non-reproducible excellencies. This was a high, attractive vision of the character of sex, and it took enormous power away from men and the upper classes. Christianity was immensely attractive to women, who saw it as an equalizing and empowering religion.

         CHRISTIANITY’S ATTRACTIVE & OFFENSIVE CATEGORY-DEFYING SOCIAL VISION

         Like the early church, the church continues to affirm all five of these. This always was and continues to be the church’s social vision and is so as we submit to the authority of the Bible.

         Ethnic diversity & caring for the poor sound ‘Liberal’. Being pro-life and sexual ethics sound ‘Conservative’. As for a commitment to forgiveness, that’s an attribute found nowhere in politics today. We can’t let ourselves be pressured to care about two in the absence of two or three others because Christians care about all of these. And that’s where we will continue to be category-defying, and both attractive and offensive.

         In the politics of our day we are pressured into false dilemmas such as, “Do you care about women or the unborn?” The Christian social vision is responsible for bringing dignity and equality to women in human history. We care about the unborn and women. We can agree that we are morally obligated to care for the poor. And we can even agree that meaningful political engagement could go a long way in alleviating the poverty in our community. But there are many possible ways to help t]]> This post is part 1 of a 5 part blog series called 'Shaped By The Gospel' on the subjects of race, politics, individualism, sexuality, and materialism. What does it look like to be shaped by the gospel on relevant issues shaping our culture? https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=12 Wed, 14 Jul 2021 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/12/Shaped-By-The-Gospel-Race

         This post is part 1 of a 5 part blog series called ‘Shaped By The Gospel’ on the subjects of race, politics, individualism, sexuality, and materialism. What does it look like to be shaped by the gospel on relevant issues shaping our culture?

         In light of the recent “black lives matter” demonstrations that took place around the world and the more recent tragic news from Kamloops about a survey of the grounds at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School that uncovered the remains of 215 children buried at the site, the issue of racism is now centre stage in our country and needs to be addressed. But how are we to address racism and its various forms — individual racism and systemic racism? Does the gospel have a compelling solution to this problem? Well, let’s see what the scriptures have to say about racism and its various forms.

         First, let’s define terms:

         RACISM
         Prejudice; discrimination; antagonism directed against a person or people on the basis of their membership to a particular racial or ethnic group. There are various forms of racism. There is individual racism where the individual makes racist assumptions and
         has racist beliefs where they are exhibiting racist behaviour, sometimes behaving in a racist manner consciously and sometimes subconsciously.

         SYSTEMIC RACISM
         Policies and practices that are entrenched in established institutions which result in the exclusion or the promotion of a designated group. Either you exclude one group or really favour one group over all others. The deep issue with racism is this: It asserts superiority of one ethnicity over another and hence it attempts, then, to segregate the superior from the inferior. Residential Schools in Canada would be an example of this. Another example would be apartheid in South Africa. Racism produces prejudices that make sweeping negative assessments of ethnicities from a standpoint of condescension based on stereotypical, preconceived, and uncharitable opinions. Simply put, racism treats people unjustly because of their ethnicity.

         So how should we address the issue of racism as Christians? What does it mean to be shaped by the gospel when it comes to issues of race? In what ways is the Christian vision different from the culture’s approach to addressing racism?

         Our answer hinges on how we would answer these four questions. By and large our culture would answer the following questions this way:

         Who am I? You are nothing. Go make something of yourself.
         Why am I here? You are here to consume and enjoy.
         What’s wrong with the world? Lack of education, lack of funding, lack of policing.
         How can we make the wrong right? More education, more funding, and more policing. That’s how we will address these issues.

         Here is how the Bible responds to the same four questions:

         Who am I? I am created in the image and likeness of God. That’s why every single person has dignity and worth. It doesn’t matter if you’re black or white, from one country or another, what ethnicity, the colour of your eyes and your skin, you have dignity and worth because you are made in the image of God.
         Why am I here? I am not here to consume and enjoy, I am here to bring glory to God.
         What is wrong with the world? It is not insufficient education, funding, or policing. What’s wrong with the world is you and me. We are what’s wrong with the world because there is sin in us. We love the wrong things too much and the right things too little.
         How can we make the wrong right? The gospel. Education is good and it is good for us to learn and to be aware, but the root of the issue is a heart-issue, a sin-issue. Racism is a sin issue. It’s not lack of education issue, because there are people who are well-educated who are racist. So how do you fix that? The gospel is the answer to the heart-issue, the sin-issue.

         HOW DOES THE BIBLE ADDRESS THE ISSUE?

         All people are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26; 5:1; 9:6; 1 Corinthians 11:7; Acts 17:24-26). Racism is heresy because it denies that God created all people in His image and likeness. Therefore, that means we ought to love our neighbour (Luke 10:30-37; Leviticus 19:2; 19:13-18; 19:33-34). Racism disregards Jesus’ command to love our neighbour as ourselves. And say no to racism (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8; Revelation 9:9-10). Racism in the church is a contradiction of the visible unity that we as believers should celebrate. In Revelation 9 the Apostle John sees a vision of heaven filled with people from every tribe and language worshipping Jesus together.

         NEXT STEPS

         • LEARN: Racism is not simply an issue in other places. Multiple ethnic minorities in Canada will tell you that racism is alive and well in our country. Seek to learn the stories of others. Let us talk to our Indigenous community, hear their stories, and learn.
         • PRAY: Pray that the Lord would bring reconciliation and break down the racial barriers, that God would soften hearts as the gospel is being proclaimed — because racism is a heart issue. So let’s pray that God would transform the hearts of people and would begin to treat people as image-bearers of God.
         • ACKNOWLEDGE: Acknowledge the pain that is there and empathize. You may not relate to it or understand it but acknowledge that it’s there and empathize.
         • COMMIT: Commit to loving your neighbour as a response to the gospel and commit to ushering in the Kingdom of God. Why? Because one day you and I will stand in the courts of heaven with brothers and sisters from all tribes and tongues saying, “Salvation belongs to the Lord”. If that will be a true reality for us for eternity then let us start trying to emulate it here and live in light of that.

         
         PRAYER
         May the God of peace who reached across all ethnic boundaries by His love, equip me to do his will.
         May I seek justice, be humble and pursue reconciliation.
         May our Father work in me that which is pleasing in his sight - a listening spirit and repentant heart.
         Through the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom be glory forever and ever. Amen.

         
         FURTHER STUDY
         + Deep Thoughts Episode 43 “Racism & The Great Commission”
         + Deep Thoughts Episode 36 “Confronting Injustice Without Compromising Truth” (with Thaddeus Williams)

         ]]> When the Christian leaders who helped us grow in faith fall, is our faith itself in jeopardy? This #MustReads from around the interwebs is not a pleasant one to curate. But for those of you who have felt disoriented by the report of sexual abuse by famed apologist Ravi Zacharias, there are some important truths to keep in mind. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=13 Wed, 17 Feb 2021 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/13/Must-Reads--When-Famous-Christians-Fall

         When the Christian leaders who helped us grow in faith fall, is our faith itself in jeopardy? This #MustReads from around the interwebs is not a pleasant one to curate. But for those of you who have felt disoriented by the report of sexual abuse by famed apologist Ravi Zacharias, there are some important truths to keep in mind.

         Russell Moore, admittedly enraged by the findings of the investigation into Ravi Zacharias, wrote two articles. In the second one, Enraged by Ravi (Part 2): What if you were converted or discipled under a ministry like Ravi’s, Moore says the following:

         When someone you admire does something disgusting or evil, don’t admire what is disgusting or evil. At the same time, don’t let your rightful disgust turn you to despair. Many who come in Jesus’ name are frauds. Jesus is not.

         Back in December as an investigation into Ravi was ongoing, news broke about Carl Lentz (the Hillsong pastor who was "pastor to the stars" like Justin Bieber and Kevin Durant) cheating on his wife. The Jerry Falwell Jr fiasco was also just months old. Before that James MacDonald, before that Bill Hybels, and before him Mark Driscoll. And before all of them a wake of others. Replace Ravi's name with a myriad of others influential Christian leaders and we're left with the same unsettling question, "Does their moral failure render what they taught me about faith bankrupt as well?"

         David French wrote an article that traces some of the leaders listed above entitled, The Crisis of Christian Celebrity. In it he wrote,

         Christian celebrities will continue to fall. But they don’t have to fall so often. They don’t have to inflict so much pain. Change will only come when Christian leaders remember a few painful truths. Their hearts are deceitful. They do not deserve their fame. God does not need them. Instead, they need Him. And they need to remember those truths every day of every week of every year until their race is complete.

         At the 51-54 minute marks and 1:00:34-1:10:20 marks of the Life and Books and Everything podcast, Tim Keller talks about evangelical celebrities, saying at one point,

         The articles about Ravi Zacharias that came out in September from some women say he would always say, "You don't know the pressures I'm under". I think the reason why David looked at Bathsheba and said I want her, you know what, he probably said, "Nobody knows the kinds of sacrifices I'm making. Nobody knows the pressure I'm under. Nobody knows what I have to do for Israel and I deserve this."

         In Ravi Zacharias and the Judgment of God Collin Hansen wrote,

         Ravi Zacharias broke our trust. He broke our trust by first and foremost violating the trust of vulnerable, exposed women. We agonize on their behalf and beg God that no one else would suffer as they did. We lament this grievous evil. We renew our commitment to repair what injustice has destroyed. There’s only one path from here, and it’s the one the Savior showed us. “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others” (Phil. 2:3-4). Leaders, because Jesus took the form of a servant for us, we can serve others. We must not exploit them for our sexual or financial gain. We must tremble before the judgment of God, because we will give an account. Because Christ shed his blood for us, we can tend to the wounded. We worship the God who is “near to the brokenhearted,” the God who “saves the crushed in spirit” (Ps. 34:18). For anyone who’s suffered abuse, past and present, you can know that justice will be done, sooner or later. Be assured: “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (1 Pet. 5:5).

         
         The gospel is Good News. Not opinion. Not fantasy. News. Even when communicated through crooked communicators. God's Word even informs us that crooked men will preach the gospel for crooked gain. Although that doesn't always make the shocking news of the fall from grace of a respected leader any easier.

         Yet, God is good and trustworthy and the gospel is as true today as it was yesterday. Unfortunately, there's just been more news about the moral failures of Christian leaders than we even thought imaginable.

         Come, Lord Jesus. And until then, keep the faith.

         ]]> Here we are in a new year and just as expected, not much has changed in terms of society at large getting better or even being different. As with every year, days turn into nights and the news cycle turns with it. We wake up and make choices moment by moment on how we'll spend our time and what will take up space in our minds. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=14 Fri, 15 Jan 2021 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/14/Church-Dont-Lose-Your-Mind

         Here we are in a new year and just as expected, not much has changed in terms of society at large getting better or even being different. As with every year, days turn into nights and the news cycle turns with it. We wake up and make choices moment by moment on how we’ll spend our time and what will take up space in our minds.

         Church, can I be real with you? I’m concerned about us. And I can’t help wondering, have we lost our minds? I don’t mean this in a flippant way. I truly mean every word of this pithy question. Have we lost control of what we're filling our minds with and by doing so lost our minds all together.

         We left a divisive year and walked right into a new one. And I can imagine for as long as the Lord tarries it will be the same with every new year ahead. If there is anything the human race is excellent at, it’s dividing and fighting about just about anything. And christians are not immune to this inclination, unfortunately.

         Yet, we don't have to engage with the world this way. If we want to, we can do better. When we seek the Scriptures we see examples of God’s people respond to all kinds of societal and personal trouble in all kinds of ways. Some are good, and others are bad. As we discern our times, we must look and ask, where are the godly examples among us?

         Where are the Abrahams? The people of God who diligently intercede for their evil city. (Genesis 18:22-24)

         Where are the Moses’s? The faithful saints who call on the Lord to spare the people of God from their own whiny, complacent wandering. (Exodus 32:11,14)

         Where are the Naomis? The devout who pray not for their own care and safety but for the care and safety of others. (Ruth 1:8-9)

         Where are the Jobs? Who in the midst of the worst kind of loss, lament with godly understanding of who is in control of all things at all times. (Job 42)

         Where are the Annas? Who expect nothing from anybody but give themselves to the worship and prayer of the Lord all the days of their lives. (Luke 2:36-38)

         Where are the Pauls? The obediently strong who pray and worship even while locked up in jail for their faith in Christ. (Acts 16:16-40)

         And most importantly...with tears in my eyes, oh church, where are the Jesus’s? The ones who will utter “forgive them father, for they know not what they do” when evil men do evil things and ignorantly call it good. (Luke 23:34)

         I know they are out there. I’ve seen their quiet faithful acts of obedience. Their humble activity for the Kingdom. The compassion and peace they bring to others without desiring an audience or applause.

         When we seek the Scriptures we see examples of God’s people respond to all kinds of societal and personal trouble in all kinds of ways. We must look and ask, where are the godly examples among us?

         Yet, I’m afraid many of us in the church have become a bunch of Jonahs. (Jonah 4)

         I know, at times, I have. It's so easy to become prophets of God with a message of judgment only for people we’ve decided are worthy of mockery and scorn. Never looking inward at our own sin, only seeing the things we despise in others. Never choosing compassion and mercy, only focusing on being right about the minutia of our times. And then unloading that wrath towards each other in passive and aggressive ways for the sake of what good?

         I guess, our own? Heaven, help us.

         What will we do?

         We can blame social media, politics or bias news sources all day long. But thats o]]> If you grew up in the early 90's, the popular song by Salt-N-Peppa, "Let's Talk About Sex", is most likely going through your head as you read this. This song, blasted from the radio by the kids in the neighbourhood, was one of the ways I heard about "sex" long before I really knew what it even was. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=15 Mon, 11 Jan 2021 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/15/Lets-Talk-About-SEX

         If you grew up in the early 90’s, the popular song by Salt-N-Peppa, "Let’s Talk About Sex”, is most likely going through your head as you read this. This song, blasted from the radio by the kids in the neighbourhood, was one of the ways I heard about “sex” long before I really knew what it even was.

         Over the last six months, I have talked to many parents and friends, read multiple articles and listened to vlogs and podcasts, only to hear that many of us never heard "the talk” as children. I was one of those kids. This is what the author of “Mom, Dad... What’s Sex?” has to say about this:

         “Not to talk to our children about sex as they grow up in a hyper-sexual culture is like launching them, with no preparation, into a “Choose Your Own Adventure” story that is unlikely to have a happy ending. This isn’t a guilt trip for parents, but a reminder of how much our children need us to communicate, influence, answer questions and listen when it comes to sex. Talking to our children about sex is loving not only because it is needed but also because it is a marvellous opportunity to teach them about themselves, God, and the world God made.”

         As believers, it is important to teach our kids with Biblical truth, rather than simply allowing culture to shape them. Last Christmas, Old Navy came out with its first two- dad family advertisement and this Christmas, Hallmark launched its first same sex couple story. While searching up a cookie recipe last week, a couple demonstrated an intimate position with an ad for Viagra in the middle of the article. With schools across North America feeling the pressure to teach sex-ed younger and younger, electronics in our children’s hands as soon they can hold them and streaming service content getting more inappropriate every season, ultimately, we as Christians and as parents want to set the terms on what healthy sexuality looks like and do so according to Scripture.

         You may think, because your child isn’t allowed devices, isn’t on social media, goes to a Christian school or is home schooled, that they would never look if they somehow stumbled upon pornography or that they aren’t exposed to anything sexual. As parents we can be naive. “7 Lessons to Introduce Your Child to Biblical Sexuality” says that kids as young as six are coming home from the playground or school asking about oral sex.

         “Sexualized media is everywhere. It is difficult to take a trip to the mall or the grocery store without sexual messages slapping our children across the face. What was once considered indecent is now on the front page of every magazine or brazenly displayed in shopping mall windows. And in a modern world of high speed Internet connections and wi-fi, the question is no longer if your child will see porn someday the question is when. With the world screaming sexual messages at children, the last thing they need is their parents’ silence.”

         I’m not trying to shock you, but as a parent of four children and a Children’s Pastor, I’m acutely aware of what is out there, and I am passionate for kids to hear about sex first from their parents, using the incredible resource that God has given us-the Bible. You may feel ill-equipped and have no idea where to start. I want to encourage you to start at the beginning, in Genesis!

         Gen.1:27-28, So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. And God blessed them. And God said to them, Be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it...

         Gen. 2:24-25, Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. And the man and his wife were both naked and not ashamed.

         God created sex! It is a beautiful gift to us when unified in the way God intended it for.

         Even with the Bible in our hands, talking about sex is awkward and can feel overwhelming. I have listed numerous Biblical resources at the end of this article that can help you teach your child about Biblical sexual values using age appropriate content. I want to caution you that these books are meant to be previewed by parents first so they can decide what their child is ready to learn. I want to encourage you that even if your child sheds a few tears of embarrassment or gets upset with you, to continue to persevere another day.

         You may be thinking, my child is already in middle school, it’s too late! Even if your child is already in their teenage years, don’t put this off. They may have already been exposed in some way and though it may be the most embarrassing conversation ever, they need to talk about their feelings. What they have seen or even what they have done, they need to talk it through with a loving parent who understands the grace God has extended to all of us.

         Salt-N-Peppa’s lyrics ring uncomfortably true,

         “Lets talk about sex for now
         To the people at home or in the crowd
         it keeps coming up anyhow
         Don’t be coy, avoid or make void the topic
         Cuz that ain’t gonna stop it
         Now we talk about sex on the radio and video shows many will know anything goes”

         Parents, we can’t avoid putting off talking about this incredible gift that God created! If we don’t talk about it, someone or something else will. Let’s be the leaders in a world that will gladly lead the way if we don’t. Cuz it keeps coming up and it ain’t gonna stop.

         RESOURCES

         • The Story of Me (ages 3-5) 

         • Before I Was Born (ages 5-8)

         • God Made All of Me (elementary aged)

         • The Talk: 7 Lessons To Introduce Your Child to Biblical Sexuality (age 6-10) 

         • The Talk: Relationships 11 Lessons To Give Kids A Greater understanding of Biblical Sexuality (age 11+) 

         • The Talk by Focus on the Family (a free printable resource from their website for ages 10-18) 

         • Mom, Dad...What’s Sex? (A resource for parents) 

         • 

           Each December we're granted a special occasion to look back and look forward. Sure, we can do this anytime of the year, as the author Lore Wilbert says "Mondays and Januarys and birthdays and Septembers. I am always searching for excuses to begin again again." Me too.

           But for me, nothing allows such excuse than Christmas. It's hopeful and reflective nature gives perfect opportunity for rumination about what has been and what could be. What did I learn this year? What do I hope for the year at my doorstep? That kind of thing. Although I'm not an optimistic person by nature, I enjoy looking forward to what's ahead, all while keeping my eyes fixed on the rearview mirror of the past.

           And this past year has given us all lots to mull over, hasn't it? I have to say, this time around, reflecting seems strange because every part of it's "unprecedented"-ness still feels ever so present.

           With the many shut-downs my calendar has been scant but my physche has been stocked. Stocked with a lot of things. But most consistently - weariness.

           It's been a dark year in many ways, but there is no need to recount all the ways it was dark. We all know. We're still in it. The weariness is still present.

           This year of testing isn't over yet and although the memes about kicking 2020 in the butt as it leaves are starting to make their rounds, the realities of this year will most certainly bleed into the next. Nothing particularly special will happen when the clock strikes 12pm on January 1st, 2021. We will still wake up in the morning to a pandemic and all its many complications.

           However with Christmas, in comes that special opportunity.

           For me, one of the most staggering verses in the whole Bible is Luke 1:49a, "For he who is mighty has done great things for me." This comes from the song (magnificat) sung by Mary the mother of Jesus. She didn't sing it after Jesus was born but while he was still nestled inside her belly. She didn't utter it after he died and rose again. Nor did she recite it after reflecting on his transfiguration. No - in the midst of her unprecedented predicament - being young, unwed, pregnant and Jewish - she sang these hopeful words.

           The Lord had done great things for her. And she new it while darkness was all around her.

           This is what Christmas does. It reminds us of what we so desperately need to remember. In the darkness, in the suffering, in the relentless ache of weariness - He who is mighty has done great things for me. And for you. As he did for Mary.

           Tim Keller in his book Hidden Christmas says...
           "Christmas shows you a God unlike the god of any other faith. Have you been betrayed? Have you been lonely? Have you been destitute? Have you faced death? So had he! Some say, "You don't understand. I have prayed to God for things, and God ignored my prayer." In the garden of Gethsemane Jesus cried out, "Father...may this cup be taken from me" (Matthew 23:39) and he was turned down. Jesus knows the pain of unanswered prayer. Some say, "I feel like God has abandoned me." What do you think Jesus was saying on the cross when he said, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me" (Matthew 27:46)?

           What does this mean? The very act of the incarnation was for more than our salvation. It was for our comfort. Knowing in the midst of our very present struggle that we have a God who knows it personally gives a kind of relief we otherwise couldn't have. Christmas comes around each year to remind us that no other god does this kind of thing. No other god not only wants to rescue us but also relate directly to mere mortal pain. This is absolutely unheard of in any other religion and it's the reason Christmas is so absurdly wonderful.

           The faith of a lowly, young virgin, is the the faith all mankind is called to embody. The faith that gave her the courage to say, "let it be to me according to your word" knowing full-well that word would put her life in danger.

           The light came down into a dark place.

           And we continue to feel its ever-present darkness. If this year has taught us anything, it is the unpredictability of the world around us. Yet however unstable you may have felt, Christmas is here to stabilize any residual fear. Take comfort - the Saviour knows all too well, what you've been through. Which means it's time to rest.

           Rest and sing.

           As the Christmas hymn It Came Upon A Midnight Clear says...

           All ye beneath life's crushing load Whose forms are bending low Who toil along the climbing way With painful steps and slow

           Look now for glad and golden hours Come swiftly on the wing O rest beside the weary road And hear the angels sing

           The light of the world has done great things for me and for you. Even this year.

           And no matter what happens next year, th]]> Anxiety and depression, especially among teens, has skyrocketed and its directly correlated with the dawn of social media. Social media will "connect you" to friends and family, some long lost friends, some people that aren't really your friends, and others you wouldn't talk to otherwise, in exchange for anxiety, depression, and screen addiction. That's a disastrous trade-off. But we can't stop because...we're addicted. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=17 Wed, 18 Nov 2020 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/17/The-Discipleship-Dilemma

           Discipleship (noun)
           dis·​ci·​ple | di-ˈsī-pəl-ˈship
           1 a: The pattern of following Jesus and trusting him and learning from Him.  
           b: The activity of helping others learn and grow as disciples of Jesus.

           Dilemma (noun)
           di·​lem·​ma | də-ˈle-mə
           1 a: a usually undesirable or unpleasant choice
           b: a situation involving such a choice
           broadly : Predicament 

           The Discipleship Dilemma
           dis·​ci·​ple | di-ˈsī-pəl-ˈship  di·​lem·​ma | də-ˈle-mə
           A predicament that gets in the way of following Jesus and trusting Him, learning from Him, and helping others follow Jesus.

           Part of what it means to be a pastor (shepherd) is to guide and protect the sheep in their care from dangers. The dangers themselves sometimes change over time but the pastoral principle does not. And what the internet and social media are not only doing to our mental health but to our very personhood and discipleship to Jesus in the 21st century west cannot be understated. It's code red.

           What the internet and social media are not only doing to our mental health but to our very personhood and discipleship to Jesus cannot be understated. It's code red.

           Anxiety and depression, especially among teens, has skyrocketed and its directly correlated with the dawn of social media. Social media will "connect you" to friends and family, some long lost friends, some people that aren't really your friends, and others you wouldn't talk to otherwise, in exchange for anxiety, depression, and screen addiction. That's a disastrous trade-off. But we can't stop because...we're addicted.

           

           I began my Following Jesus In The Digital Age seminar last year with this question: How do we navigate our technological moment as followers of Jesus who prioritize shaping our lives according to the will and ways of Jesus? How do we reclaim real life in a world of devices? What does it look like to follow Jesus in the digital age?

           Every Jesus-follower needs to think about these questions, answer them honestly, and plan accordingly. My intent is to identify some precarious dangers and invite you to pivot toward a healthier, more Christ-exalting, disciple-making pattern of life. I'd like to help you do that in the remainder of this article. 

           But, like the gospel, I need to share the bad news before I can share the hope found in the good news:

           Parents report that their children spend (on average) 5 hours on screens on a typical weekday. 82% of teens sleep with their phone next to them. Multiple studies have suggested that children 0-2 should have no screen time and that teens and adults should limit themselves to 2 hours of screen time per day. One recent study revealed Canadians are on screens 11 hours per day. 45% of Canadians are on multiple screens at the same time for hours. The average iPhone user unlocks their phone 80 times a day (once every 12 minutes for 16 hours a day, every day).

           

           YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram (among others) utilize algorithms to suggest content that is specifically tailored to you so that you'll stay on their app longer. The dopamine rush that happens in our brains when people like our social media posts aside, misinformation is intentionally disseminated through social media and once you watch it once, you see it again and again and again, reinforcing either previously held biases or convincing you that it's true simply because you're seeing it all over the place. 

           

           This is obviously not only unhealthy, it's a dangerous battle for your soul. The polarization that we are seeing in our world today is due, in large part, to a handful of multi-billion dollar social media companies vying for your attention, clicks, and striving to make you addicted so they gain more ad revenue. The price? Your time, your mental health, your ability to empathize with those who think and are different from you, and the wisdom to know what's true, right and good.

           

           I recently released a podcast episode with Brett McCracken about his forthcoming book, The Wisdom Pyramid (February, 2021). As you can see from the graphic above, the sources of Christian wisdom — and discipleship in general — are flipped for the vast majority of us. With social media and the internet being our primary source of input, trading the wisdom that comes from God for mere information and worse, misinformation. The wisdom we so desperately need, as McCracken shows, is readily available to us in God's Word, Christian community, nature, good books, and beauty (art, culture, creativity, wonder, rest). 

           The source of so much of our sickness today is that we've flipped the wisdom pyramid on its head

           The source of so much of our sickness today is that we've flipped the wisdom pyramid (and the food pyramid for that matter) on its head. And we're suffering the dire consequences in our minds, bodies, souls, families, communities, and world.

           

           Years ago, we used to refer to our Lead Team as our functional elders. We also referred to key volunteers in our congregation as our functional deacons. The Bible describes two offices in the local church: Elder (used interchangeably in the New Testament with the words overseer and pastor) and Deacon. Therefore, our desire is two-fold: 1) To use the biblical language and, 2) Activate these functional offices at Central.

           We believe that by implementing the Deacon office, not only will we be consistent in our desire for biblical faithfulness, but our church will also be well-served. What Jesus has instituted for His Church is not only good, it's best.

           DEFINING THE OFFICE OF DEACON

           Supervisors of congregational service (using elder defined, locally determined service opportunities)

           A biblical form of church government calls for godly elders to shepherd the flock (1 Peter 5:1-4, 20:28-32). These servant-leaders devote themselves to prayer and to the ministry of the Word (Acts 6:4). Because this is their principle duty they can spare little time and strength to anything else. Therefore, Elders need Deacons to help them shoulder the load of shepherding.

           FOUNDATION

           The word deacon, from the Greek diakonos, means “servant” or “minister”. Paul opens his letter to the Philippians addressing the saints with the overseers and deacons (1:1). In 1 Timothy 3:8-12, Paul lists several requirements for deacons, separating them from elders in that they don't necessarily need to be able to teach.

           What the Scriptures make clear is that the church’s servant-leaders (the Apostles according to Acts 6:4, and subsequent church leaders according to 1 Timothy 3) need deacons to help with the work—and because qualifications are required—to hold an office. The Bible affirms not only the Office of Elder in the church but the Office of Deacon as well. We ought to affirm both for consistency’s sake and the benefit of the church, trusting that what Jesus has instituted for the Church is best for it.

           FUNCTION

           Deacons must have a broad understanding of the role of the elders they are assisting to effectively help them shepherd the flock. Elders keep watch over souls (Hebrews 13:17), manage the church of God (1 Timothy 3:4-5), teach the Word (1 Timothy 3:2), preach the gospel (2 Timothy 4:2), rule the body (1 Timothy 5:17), protect from wolves (Acts 20:28-29), pray for healing (James 5:14), contend for the faith (Jude 3), rebuke false doctrine (Titus 1:9), equip the saints (Ephesians 4:12) and set an example to the believers (1 Peter 5:3)—for which they are held to account by God (Hebrews 13:17).

           The Deacon is not merely a helper but a servant-officer.

           While these functions are primarily the responsibility of the Elder, the Deacon’s close connection to the Elder makes the Deacon’s role complementary. The Deacon is not merely a helper but a servant-officer.

           PURPOSE

           A Deacon is a man or woman who is a Ministry Partner within the church, appointed and set apart by the Central Elders to assist them and pastors in the shepherding, caring, and equipping ministries of the church at a particular campus. As a result, the Elders will be free to be dedicated to prayer, oversight, and the ministry of the Word (Acts 6:4).

           PROCESS

           Deacons will be recommended by a pastor at a specific campus for a specific function, and tested (1 Timothy 3:10) and appointed by the Elders. The first Deacons were affirmed with the laying on of hands (Acts 6:1-6) and were closely associated with the Elders (Philippians 1:1). The Deacon will serve a specific term in which the Deacon performs duties designed by the Central Elders and Pastors (3 years, renewable upon mutual agreement between the Elders and deacons). The Deacons will operate under the oversight of a particular pastor and in submission to the Elders.

           PRACTICE

           Deacons will assist pastors/elders contextually according to the specific physical and spiritual needs at their designated campus.
           Deacon responsibilities include but are not limited to:

           • Helping lead and organize specific ministry initiatives (e.g. Crisis Care; Mercy Ministry; Administrative projects)
           • Helping strengthen ongoing ministries (e.g. Hospitality/Front Door Ministry; Visitation)
           • Helping the elders lead corporate prayer gatherings and be available for further prayer after prayer meetings

           Deacons provide for a wide variety of needs and in doing so, serve the church well for its flourishing and good.

           Considering the size and reach of Central in it’s various campus contexts, the Deacons will also strive to equip other Ministry Partners at each campus to meet the needs of the body, which is consistent with our mission, vision, and values throughout all of our ministries.

           While the Deacons at Central will serve the body by assisting the Elders/Pastors, all Ministry Partners are encouraged and expected to serve the body in accordance with their abilities and gifting as taught in the Scriptures and emphasized in our philosophy of ministry (eg. Value: Equipped for Ministry).

           ROLES

           While the New Testament clearly lays out the existence of a Deacon Office, descriptions of it are limited. While we might prefer the Scriptures to say more, they say enough. We can trust that this is by design and frees us to utilize the office in ways that fulfill their functional purpose best in our particular context. These roles consist of practical service with emphasis on care for the needy, administration, and tasks that free up Elders/Pastors to focus on their primary work of the ministry of the Word and prayer.

           At Central, these tasks could include (but are not limited to): Community Care, Visitation, Hospitality Team Leaders, Administrative Projects, Campus Specific Tech Leaders, and Finance Team Leaders.

           Please join us in welcoming Martha Bishop (Agassiz Campus: Care & Prayer), Laura Belyea (Chilliwack Campus: Count Team Lead), and Michael Harrison (North Fraser Campuses: Tech Lead) as Central Deacons!

           ]]> I recently had a friend post a picture of a news article on facebook. She was outraged by the article and was calling for a boycott. This is what the article said "Bibles Pulled from Barnes and Noble for the outdated idea that all humans are made in the image of God". My friend was rallying the Christian troops to arm up and take on this terrible injustice. She was so angry. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=19 Tue, 20 Oct 2020 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/19/Those-Who-Speak-Honey-Trust-God

           These are outrageous times; prone to invoke rage.
           
           I recently had a friend post a picture of a news article on facebook. She was outraged by the article and was calling for a boycott. This is what the article said “Bibles Pulled from Barnes and Noble for the outdated idea that all humans are made in the image of God”. My friend was rallying the Christian troops to arm up and take on this terrible injustice.  She was so angry. 

           She was also deceived. Because what she didn’t realize is that she was posting a popular Christian satirical website called Babylon Bee and the story wasn’t true. Not that it matters that much, but Barnes and Noble are still selling Bibles. 

           Could we be in anymore confusing times? Technically yes. If you know anything about history, this isn’t actually that unprecedented. Although, there is technology. And that new bit of invention has made what we’re all experiencing now in 2020 very unique. Nothing is new to the Lord, but a lot is new for us.

           However, as Christians we have a special responsibility in this moment. In the midst of the confusion it is our duty to be calm and reasonable. And in order to do that we need a lot of wisdom.

           Wisdom like Proverbs 16:23-24, that says…

           The heart of the wise makes his speech judicious and adds persuasiveness to his lips. Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.

            
           What we learn in this text is that wise people win others by speaking sweetly and seeking to learn. Foolish people are plenty with their words but they kill the soul.

           Wisdom isn’t wisdom when it doesn’t shut up and it never gives life. As a culture, we really value the kind of wisdom that looks a lot like winning a debate. (Don’t get me wrong, there is time for debate.) But what wisdom actually looks like is, being teachable slow to speak, kind in speech, not fighting back, refraining from responding and not getting the last word in. That’s what wisdom looks like. And that could not be more antithetical to our world today.

           As Christians there are so many things to be angry about when we look at society today. And you may be feeling the tension in your spirit now. But, I think we can all agree that shouting the loudest is not the answer.

           One of the most common ancient uses of honey was to heal wounds and soothe pain. Gracious words can do that. They can heal and soothe. And they can also mend, restore, console and relieve the pain inside another person. Our words are powerful and they can build up or tear down. So what are your words doing?

           Here’s another Proverb to help us. Proverbs 16:32-33 says…

           Whoever is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city. The lot is cast into the lap, but it’s every decision is from the Lord.

           
           In other words, being patient with others proves our trust in the Lord. We can say all we want that we trust God. But we prove it by how we respond to our own anger.

           When this was written, military prowess was held in the highest regard. Someone who is mighty would look like a person that can take back a city, who can raise the loudest cry and be the the most powerful. But the exact opposite is true. Those who know how to rule their own spirit (their own anger) are the true mighty ones. The person that has no control over their anger is not the strong one but the weak one. He is the captive not the conquerer.

           Ray Ortlund says, “Conquering a city is child’s play compared with ruling the turbulent, demanding, upset world inside us. The one is only the battle of a day. The other is the conflict of a lifetime.”

           So who are we most concerned about conquering? Everyone around us? Society? Or our own wayward spirit?

           Verse 33 is the antidote to all of this. Because when we trust God, there is no need to burn hot with anger, or lash out or try to take control back. We cast the lot of our prayers into the ears of the Lord and then we let Him have His way. And trust that His way is better than ours. Of course, the best example of this wisdom is in Christ.

           1 Peter 2:23 says, 

           When Christ was reviled, he did not revile in return; when he suffered, he did not threaten, but continued entrusting himself to him who judges justly.

           
           Let that sink in. 

           Of all the righteous scenarios to fight back in the history of the world, that would be the one! And yet, Jesus went to the cross as meek as they come. He was led to be slaughtered, having done nothing wrong and what did he do?

           He calmed his tongue and trusted the Lord. Perfect humility unto death.

           How different we respond when we are mildly inconvenienced or when we see something we don’t like. We can justify our anger up and down. But for Christ.

           What does this mean?

           Before we hit send on our outrage, we must think about Christ. His willingness to mute his anger when his own rights were taken from Him, ought to speak very loudly when we find ourselves outraged when minor comforts are taken from us. With this in mind, let’s adjust ourselves to the times we’re in with wisdom by putting on the humility of Christ. When anger arises, may we conquer it with a deep trust in the Lord’s will. 

           In these confusing times, let’s not jump to unreasonable irritability towards everyone around us. But instead be a calm presence of grace. Being quick to listen and slow to anger.

           And let’s win a watching world by letting only honey spill out of our mouths.

           ]]> "The happiest part of being a father is seeing divine grace manifest in our children, as our Father in heaven performs the miracle of a new birth so that our children come alive to God (John 3:1-8). God is able to give our children a new heart-a new nature-that loves God, loves other believers, and cherishes the gospel (1 John 3:9; 4:7; 5:1-4). We fathers play a role in our children's second, supernatural birth by praying for them and raising them in the paths of the Lord (Eph. 6:4)." https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=20 Tue, 16 Jun 2020 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/20/Must-Reads--Dont-Waste-Your-Fathering

           A Father's Day collection of #MustRead curated content from around the interwebs.

           Don't Waste Your Fathering

           "The happiest part of being a father is seeing divine grace manifest in our children, as our Father in heaven performs the miracle of a new birth so that our children come alive to God (John 3:1–8). God is able to give our children a new heart—a new nature—that loves God, loves other believers, and cherishes the gospel (1 John 3:9; 4:7; 5:1–4). We fathers play a role in our children’s second, supernatural birth by praying for them and raising them in the paths of the Lord (Eph. 6:4)."

           Our Father of Fathers

           "In the Old Testament God is not usually referred to as the father of individual people, and Jews did not address him as “Father.” That is why when Jesus arrived, the intimacy with which he addressed God was so striking."

           "Jesus’ frequent references to God as “Father” were unheard of in his context. “Father” was his favorite way of addressing God. We see Jesus using this word for God 65 times in the Synoptic Gospels and more than 100 times in the Gospel of John, in stark comparison to the 15 times the term is used for God in the whole Old Testament."

           "Human fatherhood is modeled on the fatherhood of God.... What are some of the characteristics of a father described in Scripture? Gentleness & Compassion; Wisdom & Instruction; Discipline; Love; Exhortation & Encouragement; Protection; Provision"

           Being a father is a high calling, a way to image our loving heavenly Father who loves and cares for his children better than any earthly father can hope to. Those of us who are fathers should feel the gravity of this calling. When we fail to love like our heavenly Father, let’s keep repenting and trusting in Jesus, who’s adopted us into the family of God the Father.

           8 Reflections On Being Childless & Celebrating Father's Day

           "I’ve been amazed at how many people know Pam and me at only a superficial level, but still feel comfortable asking us why we don’t have children – and then tell us what we need to do." 

           "Don’t forget that we’re in the congregation. We love the fact that churches honor fathers, and we want to rejoice without any twinges of pain – but it’s hard to do. At least pray for us, too."

           Challenge us to get involved in the lives of others who need father figures. Push us. Connect us with young men who need guidance. To be honest, we often have time and resources that others may not have.

           
           When You Grieve A Prodigal's Sin More Than He or She Does

           "When you walk in the footsteps of the father of the prodigal son, hang on to these thoughts: Keep praying...; Keep believing...; Keep walking...; Keep standing...; Keep grieving...; Keep loving...; Keep listening...; Keep waiting...; Keep trusting...; Keep watching..."

           25 Facts About The Importance of Fathers

           "Increasing father involvement in their children’s lives is one of the most important ways to address material and spiritual poverty in this country. One way we can do that is to reiterate the importance of fathers and the difference their presence makes. Almost every study conducted in the social sciences confirms what the Bible teaches — fathers matter. Here are 25 facts from social science research on the effects of having a father in the home..."

           

           Gravity and Stars: A Father's Day Reflection for the Fatherless

           "A counselor once put it to me this way: “You have to grieve the loss of your dad ever being your dad, and then you get to decide if you want a friendship with him.” Fair enough. But how do you grieve the loss of gravity? How do you put the stars back into the sky? How do you teach yourself to shave? How do you pitch Smoltz to Olson by yourself?"

           Something happened. I started to feel haunted by the wounds of Jesus. Slowly, at first. I began to see that his wounds meant something for mine, spoke to mine in their own language. My pain wasn’t foreign to him. My sins weren’t too big (or too small) for him. And, maybe most importantly of all, he knew what it was to feel abandoned by a Father. He cried out from the cross in a shout of pain, the pain of being forsaken, of being alone. And for a moment, gravity buckled, and the stars slipped from the sky in total darkness.

           
           "I will never get back the father I lost. But I have gained, through Jesus’s suffering, another Father who has fathered me well. A Father who promises never to leave or forsake his children... God still hasn’t magically taken away my father wound. Sometimes I wish he would. Instead, he has begun the long work of healing. It has taken time."

           Father Hunger 

           A review of Douglas Wilson's book, Father Hunger: Why God Calls Men to Love and Lead Their Families 

           "Wilson argues that our understanding of fathers, and everything else in culture, cannot be put right until we rediscover God the Father."

           ]]> A #BlackLivesMatter Edition of #MustReads curated content from around the interwebs. One of the ways to make the most of this moment is to listen and learn. Below are three articles that I have found informative, clarifying, and convicting. I will highlight some learnings below each heading but really encourage you to read each article in full. Each one is written by a conservative evangelical Christian and is challenging their own community to embody the faith more deeply in one way or another. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=21 Sun, 07 Jun 2020 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/21/Must-Reads--Black-Lives-Matter

           A #BlackLivesMatter Edition of #MustReads curated content from around the interwebs.

           One of the ways to make the most of this moment is to listen and learn. Below are three articles that I have found informative, clarifying, and convicting. I will highlight some learnings below each heading but really encourage you to read each article in full. Each one is written by a conservative evangelical Christian and is challenging their own community to embody the faith more deeply in one way or another.

           Is Black Lives Matter the New Civil Rights Movement?

           (an audio presentation version of Dr Mika Edmonson's piece is available through the link as well)

           "Refusal to address racialized sin has undermined our capacity to fulfill our Romans 12:15 calling to “mourn with those who mourn.” The unique calling of the church (as opposed to the institutions of the world) is not simply to tolerate one another, or even simply to understand one another, but to mourn with one another and bear one another’s burdens... But in the church, white suburban men are called to cry tears with the black inner-city woman scared to death her husband is going to be the next Eric Garner, or that her teenage son is going to be the next Trayvon Martin or Tamir Rice. And if you are so entrenched in your socio-political camp that you can’t shed some tears with Tanisha, something is deeply wrong. Because that’s who the church is called to be. That’s the kind of thing that makes our unity in Christ really conspicuous and causes people to see that there is a unique power at work in the church unlike anything in this world." 

           I just want to clear up a common misconception about the Black Lives Matter sentiment. Black Lives Matter does not mean “black lives matter only.” It means “black lives matter too.” It’s a contextualized statement, like saying “children’s lives matter.” That doesn’t mean adult lives don’t matter... In the face of a historic and contemporary context that has uniquely disparaged black life as not worth valuing or protecting in the same way as others, they are saying black lives matter just as much as every other life. Ironically, saying “Black Lives Matter” is really a contextualized way of saying, “All Lives Matter.”

           
           "My wife has to beg me (a grown 37-year-old man) not to go out to Walmart at night, not because she’s afraid of the criminal element, but because she’s afraid of the police element. Because she knows that when the police see me, they aren’t going to see Mika Edmondson, pastor of New City Fellowship Presbyterian church. When they see me, they aren’t going to see Mika Edmondson, PhD in systematic theology. When they see me, all they’re going to see is a black man out late at night. And she knows we’re getting stopped at 10-times the rate of everybody else, arrested at 26-times the rate of everybody else, and killed at 5-times the rate of everybody else. Black Lives Matter can see the injustice in those statistics. How can Black Lives Matter see the value of black life better than we can? Why does Black Lives Matter care more about the value of my life than you do?"

           "There’s a reason many of us have not addressed these issues. We know well the cultural risks involved and the pushback we’ll get in our churches and institutions. It’s risky to address racial sin."

           
           "We have a natural tendency to actively resist dealing with racial sin... How else could Jonathan Edwards and George Whitefield have had such great theology but think that it had nothing to say to the black suffering they saw all around them? (Edwards wrote copious notes on the duty of Christian charity to the poor on the one hand, while callously purchasing trembling little African girls off the auction block on the other.).... Evangelicals have a social ethic, but it’s a strangely selective social ethic. We show our feelings about the Lord by how we treat our neighbors made in his image."

           

           
           American Racism: We've Got So Very Far To Go

           "I always deplored racism—those values were instilled in me from birth—but I was also someone who recoiled at words like “systemic racism.” I looked at the strides we’d made since slavery and Jim Crow and said, “Look how far we’ve come.” I was less apt to say, “and look how much farther we have to go.” "

            

           "Here’s one definition—“structural” or “systemic” racism is: A system in which public policies, institutional practices, cultural representations, and other norms work in various, often reinforcing ways to perpetuate racial group inequity. It identifies dimensions of our history and culture that have allowed privileges associated with “whiteness” and disadvantages associated with “color” to endure and adapt over time. Structural racism is not something that a few people or institutions choose to practice. Instead it has been a feature of the social, economic and political systems in which we all exist."

           If politically correct progressives are often guilty of over-racializing American public discourse, and they are, politically correct conservatives commit the opposite sin—and they filter out or angrily reject all the information that contradicts their thesis. 

           

           "I believe the following things to be true:
           1. Slavery was legal and defended morally and (ultimately) militarily from 1619 to 1865.
           2. After slavery, racial discrimination was lawful and defended morally (and often violently) from 1865 to 1964.
           3. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 did not end illegal discrimination or racism, it mainly gave black Americans the legal tools to fight back against legal injustices.
           4. It is unreasonable to believe that social structures and cultural attitudes that were constructed over a period o]]> The death of George Floyd and everything that has unfolded since is nothing short of heart-wrenching and devastating. Opinions about every aspect of the unrest in the US are flying around. George Floyd, systemic racism, peaceful protests, riots, violence, looting, the police, the President. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=22 Tue, 02 Jun 2020 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/22/3-Gospel-Responses-To-Racism

           The death of George Floyd and everything that has unfolded since is nothing short of heart-wrenching and devastating.

           Opinions about every aspect of the unrest in the US are flying around. George Floyd, systemic racism, peaceful protests, riots, violence, looting, the police, the President.

           Because many storylines are unfolding at once we run the risk of landing in one of two ditches: Adopting a polarizing posture or a posture of cynical indifference.

           I find Ed Stetzer's recent comment (tweet to be specific) to be a helpful reminder of a Christian vision:

           

           I ask that you see and embrace the nuance here. Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater. You don’t have to be on the #blacklivesmatter side or the anti-looting & violence side. That’s a false dichotomy. 

           Martin Luther King, Jr was the most famous social justice warrior in the 20th century but he did not condone violence. In the same speech, he proclaimed, “A riot is the language of the unheard. What is it that America has failed to hear?” and “Riots are socially destructive and self-defeating…. I condemn riots…. I’m absolutely convinced that a riot merely intensifies the fears of the white community while relieving the guilt.”

           This is a moment to champion those striving to break down racial barriers and join them in their effort to bring equality and dignity where there has been systemic injustice.

           When Jesus said to love your neighbour He goes on to say that includes those of different ethnicities (Luke 10:36-37) and even our enemies (Matthew 5:43-44). To be a Christian is to be a person of peace (Matthew 5:9) who crosses racial divides and carries out the ministry of reconciliation that Jesus gave us (2 Corinthians 5:18).

           "To be a Christian is to be a person of peace who crosses racial divides and carries out the ministry of reconciliation that Jesus gave us"

           I invite you to embody these three gospel responses to systemic racism:

           1. IT IS A TIME TO LISTEN TO MINORITY VOICES

           This is a time to listen to ethnic minorities in order to learn and genuinely empathize with their experience.

           When I say listen, I don't mean debate. I mean listen. It is a humble, sacrificial posture that opens one's ears and honours another's story. Who in your life has an experience that you could listen to, empathize with, and learn from? 

           Additionally, here are some black brothers and sisters in Christ that you could listen to and learn from right now:
           Thabiti Anabwile; Esau McCaulley; Trillia Newbell; Charlie Dates; Jackie Hill Perry
           I also recommend Mark Vroegop's new book, 
           Weep With Me: How Lament Opens A Door For Racial Reconciliation

           

           2. IT IS A TIME FOR PERSONAL & CORPORATE REPENTANCE

           Our hearts aren’t pure. They’re naturally deceptive, dark, and destructive. This means that my thoughts and actions aren’t void of prejudice and thinking that they are perpetuates the problem. Let this moment put a searchlight on your heart and as it reveals sin, repent of it.

           The same applies to corporate repentance. As a church, and the church more broadly, this is a time to repent and seek the healing and reconciliation of the nations.

           3. IT IS A TIME FOR PERSONAL & CORPORATE LAMENT

           We’ve learned the language of lament in recent months and this is an opportunity for personal and corporate lament.

           To jog your memory, Laments ask “Where are you, God?” and “Why is this happening?” Lament is a prayer in pain that leads to trust. It’s something some of us aren't particularly familiar with or comfortable doing but now is a time for personal and corporate lament. Let lament be your prayer language to bring your questions, confusion, and intercessions to God right now.

           Ultimately, this is not a battle against flesh and blood as much as we tend to pin all evil on each other. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places (Ephesians 6:12). So storm the gates in prayer.

           

           HEAVEN COME DOWN

           The picture we see of heaven in Revelation 7 is a multitude from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and language, worshipping Jesus.

           "Christian, pursue here what your reality will be there"

           Jesus taught us to pray, Your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven (Matthew 6:10). Christian, pursue here what your reality will be there. 

           My encouragement to you is to take this opportunity to listen, repent, and lament.

           RECOMMENDED READING

           • Race, Gospel, and Justice: An Interview with Esau McCaulley
           • 

             The pandemic has been marked by many things, most notably: the tragic deaths of hundreds of thousands worldwide; amazing health care workers and essential workers; and the term 'social distancing.' 

             From a streaming service perspective, the pandemic has been marked by two massive hits: Tiger King and The Last Dance. I'll pass on writing about Tiger King...for now...and share a couple of thoughts about The Last Dance.

             The documentary, on the Chicago Bulls dynasty in the '90s, was full of never-before-seen all-access footage along with present-day interviews. 

             One thing stood out more than anything else: Michael Jordan's undivided devotion to the game. The day after the Bulls lost to the Magic in the '95 playoffs in Jordan's comeback year, he started training for the following season. The day after. He pushed those around him to be better and never took shortcuts. He led by example. 

             The phrase '10% inspiration/90% perspiration' gets thrown around. Jordan had more talent than most but a work ethic that was second-to-none. He was a supreme talent, was tenacious, and was laser-focused on being the greatest basketball player of all time. Which he is. Watch this if you think Lebron or Steph or Kobe or Magic or Bird or Chamberlain or Abdul-Jabbar is. Cause you're wrong.

             Not only did Jordan have single-minded devotion to the game of basketball, but it also came at a cost. Other areas of his life suffered and he wasn't particularly liked by a lot of his teammates over the years because of his intensity.

             

             Single-minded devotion characterized the life of Jesus, the One Christians are to follow and emulate. He said, "My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work" (John 4:34) and "Any one of you who does not renounce all that he has cannot be my disciple" (Luke 14:33).

             Jesus was walking with His disciples and someone said to Jesus, "I will follow you wherever you go." And Jesus said to him, "Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head." To another he said, "Follow me." But he said, "Lord, let me first go and bury my father." And Jesus said to him, "Leave the dead to bury their own dead. But as for you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God." Yet another said, "I will follow you, Lord, but let me first say farewell to those at my home." Jesus said to him, "No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for the kingdom of God" (Luke 9:57-62).

             We aren't called to simply believe certain things about Jesus and to act in certain moral ways but to follow Him. There's a call and a cost to following Jesus and how we respond to the call and cost reveals whether our hearts are full of divided allegiances or single-minded devotion to Him. 

             There have always been athletes with all the skill in the world who didn't have the drive and determination that all the greats had. In the church, there are crowds of people who know the Truth but who haven't become fully devoted followers of Jesus. They know the right stuff and do a lot of the right things but they don't really seem to love Him all that much. They don't fully embrace the call of Christ or the cost of discipleship. If that's you I've got three words for you, Be Like Mike.

             

             The Apostle Paul wrote of his single-minded devotion to Jesus,

             "I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and him crucified" (1 Corinthians 2:2)
             
             "I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ" (Philippians 3:8)

              

             Now, the beauty of the gospel is that we're not called to be the GOAT but to put our trust in the GOAT. That may be the cheesiest thing I've ever written...but hear me out. This isn't a reflection on The Last Dance that's calling you to achieve like MJ. Christianity is not built upon a bunch of winners who are morally superior and more devoted than everyone else in society. Christianity is built upon the finished work of Christ, acknowledging that we need Him, that we're not the greatest of all time, that we are hopeless without Him, and need rescue.

             "In the church, there are crowds of people who know the Truth but who haven't become fully devoted followers of Jesus. They know the right stuff and do a lot of the right things but they don't really seem to love Him all that much. They don't fully embrace the call of Christ or the cost of discipleship. If that's you I've got three words for you, Be Like Mike."

             But when we encounter grace, and the Spirit of God dwells in us, and renews our minds and hearts, single-minded devotion to Jesus becomes the mark of true discipleship. For MJ, everything revolved around basketball. Everything. The way single-minded devotion works itself out in our lives is that absolutely everything revolves around Jesus. He informs and shapes everything about what we value, think and do.

             This is sometimes referred to as Christian Worldview or Biblical Worldview, seeing the world through the lens of the gospel. Do you? Or are your motivations divided? 

             "The way single-minded devotion works itself out in our lives is that absolutely everything else is filtered through the lens of Jesus. He informs and shapes everything about what we value, think and do."

             I've got one more cheesy line for you. The reward for single-minded devotion to Jesus is far greater than two three-peat Championships. You get Jesus. Forever. Count the cost and follow Jesus with single-minded devotion.

             ]]> I can't even conceive of who I'd be today without my mother. One of my fondest memories of mom is when she would pray over me before going to sleep when I was 6 years old (right after doing the classic kissing monster routine!). But I remember this so well because it was in these quiet moments that my mother taught me how to talk with God. I can still hear her voice and remember how my awareness of God's presence grew as she spent time praying with me. While nobody would've known by simply watching my behaviour growing up, God already had a hold on my heart at a young age through the prayers of my mother. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=27 Tue, 05 May 2020 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/27/An-Unabashed-Homage-To-Mothers

             I can’t even conceive of who I’d be today without my mother. One of my fondest memories of mom is when she would pray over me before going to sleep when I was 6 years old (right after doing the classic kissing monster routine!). But I remember this so well because it was in these quiet moments that my mother taught me how to talk with God. I can still hear her voice and remember how my awareness of God’s presence grew as she spent time praying with me. While nobody would’ve known by simply watching my behaviour growing up, God already had a hold on my heart at a young age through the prayers of my mother.

             

             I’m sure she didn’t always feel like praying with me at the end of a long day, but she took the time to invest and I’m so glad she did. Only my mom would have had the love and patience it required to do this since I was not an angelic child, but a true brat. My mom didn’t simply look at my outward appearance, she sought to shape my heart by pouring God’s love into me.   

             God already had a hold on my heart at a young age through the prayers of my mother

             Mom has made many more such sacrifices for me along the way, there are simply too many to count. And I have come to see both in Scripture and through the experience of watching other Christ-like mothers (including my dear wife, Jessica) that there are some common features that seem to mark all Christ-like mothers. The following is not so much a list of qualities that Christian mothers aspire to be (though it could be used that way) but is more of a celebration of the qualities I have already observed in mothers who reflect and honour Jesus.  

             Supernaturally Sacrificial

             Like Jesus, Christ-like mothers possess a supernatural ability to be sacrificial for their children. It is not that they sit around contemplating how to be this way, they simply have the instinct to be this way. Consider the famous story of Solomon and the two mothers in 1 Kings 3:16-28. Two women enter Solomon’s court and are both accusing each other of stealing the other one’s child after their own child died. “How will Solomon determine the real mother?” This is the question we are asking as we hear the story. Solomon tells the two women that he will cut the child in half and give half to each of the women. But it’s a test! Solomon knows that his test will reveal the real mother because the child’s real mother will show herself by her sacrificial love. This is exactly what happens in the story. The child’s true mother is willing to do anything to save her child, while the imposter does not truly care for the child at all (see 1 Kings 3:25-26). Such is the case of a mother’s heart toward her children. Mothers are willing to die for their kids. They are even willing to be parted if it means a better life for their child.

             

             Right now, it is inspiring to see how many mothers are showing supernatural sacrifice in their willingness to homeschool their kids and put their own plans and dreams aside for the sake of their children’s joy and health. Many women, Christian and non-Christian alike, are sacrificing for their kids and families in this season in many big and small ways and should be honoured and commended. What distinguishes a Christian mother, however, is the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit to fulfil the task with joy and for God’s glory. Many mothers sacrifice, but Christian mothers do so for God’s honour and with God’s supernatural strength to perform what is best for their kids, at great loss to themselves.

             Fiercely Intercessory

             Christ-like mothers are also fierce intercessors for their kids in a way that I think sets them apart. If her children are threatened or in danger, you simply can’t stop a godly mother from intervening for her kids. Cue the mama bear comparisons!

             I have always thought the story of the prophet Elisha and the Shunammite woman in 2 Kings 4:18-37 to be a story that is true to experience. One day when the Shunammite woman’s son complains about intense pain in his head while working with his father, his dad gives the sadly typical response by replying, “Carry him to his mother” (2 Kings 4:19). Her son is returned to her and he dies in her lap.

             

             The Shunammite woman then places her son in Elisha’s old guest room and then determines to go find Elisha and intercede for her son. At this point in the story, she does not necessarily know that Elisha can do anything for her, but she has business to do with Elisha since he was the one who prophesied that she would give birth to a son after years of barrenness. It is likely that she experiencing intense sorrow mixed with anger toward Elisha and wants a word with him.

             Christian mothers do so for God’s honour and with God’s supernatural strength to perform what is best for their kids, at great loss to themselves

             Again, her husband is sadly not much help and tries to prevent her from leaving with a lame excuse. But nothing will sway her urgency. When she arrives at Elisha’s mountain-dwelling, Elisha’s servant Gehazi greets her to determine her health and mental state. The Shunammite woman will not allow this servant to stand in her way and pretends to be “well” so that she may see Elisha. After ascending the mountain to Elisha, she grabs hold of his feet and Gehazi tries to protect Elisha by pushing her away. But she breaks down in sorrow and Elisha recognizes her grief and immediately leaps into action, sending Gehazi to bring his staff to heal the child.  

             But this mother was not content with some prophet’s assistant. She wanted Elisha! Only the best for her son! She clung to the prophet and waited with him while Gehazi was unsurprisingly unsuccessful in healing her son. So Elisha went himself to her house and gave one of the most tender and compassionate displays of God’s power and the child was brought back to life. The Shunammite woman’s response was immediate honour to Elisha for bringing her son back.

             This story in God’s Word highlights a trait that we see in all Godly mothers, a fierce intercession that is willing to stand in the gap for h]]> A crisis is a ripe time for the crazies to come out. It's not long after things begin to unravel that you hear about this Christian leader pronouncing God's Judgment on the wider culture or that church defying the Government recommendation not to have large public gatherings. Or worse, conspiracy theories about the coming Armageddon linked with Bible verses and Scripture references. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=24 Tue, 31 Mar 2020 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/24/Interpreting-The-Times-By-Interpreting-Scripture

             And the Pharisees and Sadducees came, and to test him they asked him to show them a sign from heaven. He answered them, “When it is evening, you say, ‘It will be fair weather, for the sky is red.’ And in the morning, ‘It will be stormy today, for the sky is red and threatening.’ You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. An evil and adulterous generation seeks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah.” So he left them and departed. When the disciples reached the other side, they had forgotten to bring any bread. Jesus said to them, “Watch and beware of the leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees.”  (Matthew 16:1-6)

             ---

             A crisis is a ripe time for the crazies to come out. It’s not long after things begin to unravel that you hear about this Christian leader pronouncing God’s Judgment on the wider culture or that church defying the Government recommendation not to have large public gatherings. Or worse, conspiracy theories about the coming Armageddon linked with Bible verses and Scripture references.

             In the age of the internet and fake news, no one is immune from hearing about the outlandish theories and predictions of all kinds. Many respond by tuning them out, others feel caught between opinions, still many others are swept up in the craze.

             But the question remains, how do we interpret the times properly? How can we truly discern between all of the predictions and conspiracy theories, whether regarding this crisis or any other issue we come across?

             The solution to this problem is simple, yet profoundly important. In order to interpret the times properly, we must first interpret Scripture properly. This means two things for us as disciples of Jesus. 1) This is a moment for the Biblically illiterate to become literate and 2) This is a time for sound Bible interpretation.

             

             In order to interpret the times properly, we must first interpret Scripture properly.

             Before we get into that, we first need to identify two separate groups within the church and understand how they respond to each other in opposite and equally poor ways. We could call these groups, the Watered-down and the Over-Saturated. For Jesus, these two groups were the Sadducees and the Pharisees. And Jesus warned us in no uncertain terms about the influence of both groups.

             The Watered-Down

             First, let’s look at the watered-down group. The Sadducees were the elite group of religious leaders in Jesus day. They held positions of power in the priesthood and were in close with King Herod. As a group, they only accepted the writings of the Torah and not the rest of the OT Scriptures. They denied and even laughed about ideas like a coming “resurrection of the dead” and thought such ideas were fanciful nonsense. Jesus said that these guys did not understand “the Scriptures nor the power of God” (Mk 12:24) and told them that they also did not know how to interpret the times.

             In our church culture today, many evangelicals are well aware of the watered-down group. These are the people in the church who don’t take Scripture very seriously and water it down in many areas. In a crisis, this group is not likely to win a lot of people to the Gospel because they are not very concerned that there is anything particularly spiritual going on. This group is not looking forward to God’s kingdom to come but is trying it’s best to enjoy the kingdom right now.

             Jesus would warn us not to fall into the watered-down trap. He would remind us to be watchful (Matt 25:13) and to see this crisis as an opportunity for repentance and preparation and to continue to serve others with hope of his future resurrection and kingdom (1 Cor 15:58).

             The Over-Saturated

             Now, let’s look at the Over-saturated group. This is the group that Jesus had the most conflicts with, and it is often the group that evangelicals are far less aware of. The Pharisees were extremely serious about obeying God’s law. So much so, that they stacked more laws on top of it to guarantee that they wouldn’t’ break God’s law. They were highly regarded by the common people and they had the reputation of being holy and committed to God’s word. But ironically, for all of their appearances, Jesus regularly condemned them and asked them if they had read the Bible (Matt 12:3, 5; 19:4). Which is quite funny!

             Jesus actually went further than this and accused them of misunderstanding the whole point of the Scriptures (John 5:39) and told them that the reason was because they still belonged to their Father, the Devil (John 8:44). His entire Sermon on the Mount is basically a correction of the ways that the Pharisees interpreted Scripture and taught it to others. It is not surprising then that Jesus says that they misinterpreted the times.

             In our church culture today, this group is still alive and well. Yet, in the evangelical world, we are often far less concerned with this group. And this is sad. But part of the reason is that this group is even more deceptive to Christians than the other group is. The watered-down Sadducees may deceive the masses, but many evangelicals are privy to them. However, they are often unaware of the over-saturated group because this group pretends to value God’s word, even while it mishandles and misinterprets Scripture in order to oppress God’s people.

             In a crisis, this group is the most likely to go on the crazy predictions route, using all kinds of Bible verses to justify their position. They are less likely to respond with love for neighbour and more likely to warn us about God’s judgment on a sinful culture (conveniently forgetting that most judgment passages in the Bible are directed toward Israel). Jesus would again warn us to beware of this group. He would tell us to watch out for their hypocrisy, their burdensome legalism, their greed, their neglect of love, compassion and justice and their glossy outward appearance (Matthew 23:1-36). Paul would remind us of our freedom in Christ (Gal 5:1) and warn us not to fall prey to their “plausible arguments” (Col 2:4). Since this group misinterprets the Scriptures, they have no hope of making sound predictions about the current times.

             The Third Option 

             I hope it has become clear that there are two pitfalls that Jesus is warning us against. But what exactly is the third option? How exactly are we to interpret Scripture properly so that we can understand our times and this current moment?

             While we don’t have time to unpack this fully, the most important thing that we need to understand – and what will correct most poor interpretations of the Bible – is to understand what exactly the Bible is. We misinterpret Scripture and our times because we think the Bible is primarily a rule book, or a codebook dropped from heaven, or a collection of fairy-tales, mythical stories, or random prophecies.

             But we must understand that the Bible is primarily a divine and human book that is revealing to us a story. And that story i]]> I approached our seminar on Truth & Reconciliation with this question in mind, "What does it look like for the church in Canada (and Central specifically) to contribute to the good of our First Nations neighbours?" And even more clearly, "Since Truth & Reconciliation can only be fully realized in Jesus, how can the church embody and extend these realities to our First Nations neighbours who have been so wronged by the church in the past?" https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=25 Wed, 26 Feb 2020 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/25/

             I approached our seminar on Truth & Reconciliation with this question in mind, "What does it look like for the church in Canada (and Central specifically) to contribute to the good of our First Nations neighbours?" And even more clearly, "Since Truth & Reconciliation can only be fully realized in Jesus, how can the church embody and extend these realities to our First Nations neighbours who have been so wronged by the church in the past?"

             In no way did I think that one seminar would serve as some sort of magic bullet, but instead, as a drop in the bucket as we seek to continue to learn and humble ourselves for the sake of reconciliation and mission.

             "Since Truth & Reconciliation can only be fully realized in Jesus, how can the church embody and extend these realities to our First Nations neighbours who have been so wronged by the church in the past?"

             We began our seminar with a Land Acknowledgement. Perhaps you've been at a school assembly, public lecture, political or business event where a Land Acknowledgement has been done. I hear comments often about how it's meaningless, just political, or even dangerous. I think the important question to ask is whether or not it is meaningful to our Indigenous neighbours. By and large, I have heard that it is. If we are seeking truth and reconciliation (words that find their fullness in Christ), then it's really not about how we perceive it, it's about how those we are trying to reconcile with receive it.

             Someone who is not Indigenous can do a Land Acknowledgement. Only an Indigenous person can welcome a gathering of people to the land. So it was special to have John Johnstone, one of our speakers at the seminar, come up after me and welcome everyone to the land. 

             This is not easy subject matter. It is loaded on every side. One of the reasons I had those attending the seminar do some pre-seminar reading, listening, and watching was so that accurate history and storytelling could shape our attendees' perspective. There's so much misinformation that perpetuate inaccuracies, unhelpful caricatures and prejudices, and many Canadians are simply unaware of the atrocities that have taken place towards our Indigenous neighbours in our country's short history.

             I shared three words in my brief introduction to the evening that I think are important in framing this discussion:

             1. Human Dignity

             God created humanity to bear His image. And we need to remember the great value that God has placed on all people and, therefore, treat everyone with dignity, kindness, and respect. 

             For reconciliation to take place, the starting place for many white Christians is to address their biases. I've lived in Chilliwack for 10 years and am shocked at how much racism exists here, to be honest. And I'm talking about people in the church. There is no place for that among the people of God because it runs contrary to God. 

             2. Love Neighbour

             We want to be a blessing to our neighbours. What is the great commandment? Love God and love neighbour. Specifically, we want to love and be a blessing in every neighbourhood Central has a campus.

             Chilliwack is nearly 10% Indigenous. Agassiz is nearly 25% Indigenous. The Lake Errock area is nearly 50% Indigenous. To be obedient to the command of Jesus (and the grand sweep of the Bible) to love our neighbour as ourself by definition must include love of our First Nations neighbours who live among us.

             3. Great Commission

             Followers of Jesus know that we are called to make disciples of all nations. There are a few unique hurdles to making disciples among our First Nations neighbours. 

             There is work to be done to earn trust, favour, and contribute to reconciliation. Our goal is to connect Jesus, not with the taking of land, placing of children into residential schools (of which churches played a role), and racism, but to connect Jesus with His attributes of humility, love, grace, and truth.

             It isn't as simple as telling First Nations people about Jesus. It must include the building of trust, the seeking of reconciliation, so the life-transforming truth of the gospel can transform lives and heal brokenness - across this nation!

              

             John Johnstone shared about his experience as a 60's Scoop survivor and man of faith. John serves as our Indigenous Ministry Director (p/t) and works primarily with our Lake Errock Campus and spends most of his time building trust and friendship on the reserves in that area.

             After he shared we broke into discussion around our tables. Multiple people at my table asked, "What's the 60's scoop?" Think about the devastating effect it would have on your life if your baby was taken from you at the hospital after giving birth. Or if you had been scooped up from your parents and given to another family as a newborn. This, along with the intergenerational trauma that ensued from Residential Schools and the illegal removal of land from the First Peoples and you can begin to get a window into the challenges being faced in their communities today.

             My sister Jen Shantz is the Executive Director of Inner Hope, a ministry that walks alongside (predominantly First Nations) youth and families in East Vancouver. She shared about how to build trust and relational bridges.

             Derek Parenteau is a church planter in Northern Ontario who has seen Jesus transform many lives on reserves in that region. Derek concluded our evening by sharing how he came to the realization that ministry to First Nations mattered to him because it matters to Jesus. He helped us connect the ministry of Jesus and the mission of Jesus to our call to love our Indigenous neighbours like Jesus.

             I'm grateful for Central's willingness to engage in this discussion, to learn, and to seek to be a part of bringing relationship, hope, healing, truth, and reconciliation. The alternative is to not engage and to accuse the other of needing to change. That's not gospel.

             "The alternative is to not engage and to accuse the other of needing to change. That's not gospel"

             The gospel leads us to wade into the brokenness with Jesus, the One who is full of Truth and the only One who can reconcile all of us to God and one another. O Lord, may it be so.

             ]]> Many people are experiencing financial challenges such as growing debt, little or no savings, inadequate income, and no plans for their financial future. Surveys reveal that more than half of all divorces are a result of financial tension in the home. Others are financially sound, but suffocating materialism has robbed them of their spiritual vitality. They are not spending their resources in eternally significant ways. Fortunately, the Bible has the answers to these financial difficulties - it contains more than 2,350 verses dealing with money and possessions. In fact, Jesus Christ said more about money than almost any other subject. Financial matters are addressed throughout Scripture for both spiritual and practical reasons. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=26 Mon, 20 Jan 2020 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/26/Pursuing-Christian-Obedience-With-Finances

             Many people are experiencing financial challenges such as growing debt, little or no savings, inadequate income, and no plans for their financial future. Surveys reveal that more than half of all divorces are a result of financial tension in the home. Others are financially sound, but suffocating materialism has robbed them of their spiritual vitality. They are not spending their resources in eternally significant ways. Fortunately, the Bible has the answers to these financial difficulties – it contains more than 2,350 verses dealing with money and possessions. In fact, Jesus Christ said more about money than almost any other subject. Financial matters are addressed throughout Scripture for both spiritual and practical reasons.

             "How we handle money has a significant impact on the intimacy of our relationship with Christ"

             “If therefore you are not faithful in the use of worldly wealth, who will entrust the true riches to you” (Luke 16:11). There is a correlation between how we handle money and the quality of our fellowship with the Lord. Christ teaches that we must consider the temporary nature of worldly wealth and He wants people to deepen their personal relationship with Him. True riches – our love and service to Christ, discipleship of others and glorification of God – are what really matter.

             

             Money is also a primary competitor with Christ for the lordship of our life. Matthew 6:21 “For where your treasure is there will your heart be also.” and, Matthew 6:24 “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other… You cannot serve God and money”, express this well. God teaches us we must make a choice of priorities. He does not say money and possessions are a bad thing. He teaches it is the motivation of our financial goals and decision making from money and possessions that is bad. We cannot be loyal to both so we must make a choice.

             "True riches – our love and service to Christ, discipleship of others and glorification of God – are what really matter"

             The Lord gave us a blueprint or roadmap of life in the Bible and this includes a money map also. Scripture gives us clear principles for earning, spending, saving, investing, giving, getting out of debt, and teaching our children how to handle money.

              However, the financial practices of most people are in sharp contrast to the principles of scripture. “For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways,” declares the Lord. “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9). Here God is saying He thinks differently and more creatively than we do. The world’s historical approach to money management is to be self-centred and money-centred. God’s approach, as the Isaiah passage indicates is to be Christ-centred because it’s about our relationship with Him. We further learn from Scripture God has very defined roles for Himself and us in finances.

             "Scripture teaches there are two distinct responsibilities in the handling of money: the part God plays and the part we play."

             God’s role may be summarized into three areas:

             1. Ownership

             God is the owner of everything. Psalm 24:1 reads, “The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains.” If we are going to be genuine followers of Christ, we must transfer the ownership of our possessions to the Lord (Luke 14:33) The first step in learning contentment is recognizing God is the owner of all your possessions.

             2. Control

             Our heavenly father is in ultimate control of every event. “We adore you as being in control of everything” (1 Chronicles 29:11, LB). “I praised the Most High … He does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back his hand or say to him: ‘What have you done?’” (Daniel 4:34). It is comforting for the child of God to realize that his heavenly Father orchestrates even seemingly devastating circumstances for ultimate good. “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).

             3. Provision

             The Lord promises to provide for our needs. Jesus said, “But seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things (food and clothing) shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). God is absolutely predictable in His faithfulness to provide and unpredictable in how He will provide. The basic reason people fail to recognize God’s part is that we do not know who God really is. We tend to shrink Him down to our own human abilities and limitations. “You are familiar with all my ways. Before a word is on my tongue you know it completely, O Lord” (Psalm 139:3-4).

             

             Our responsibility is to be a faithful steward or manager of the Lord’s possessions as scripture teaches. “It is required in stewards, that a man is found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2). A key reason many people struggle with giving even just 10% is that most of us have not learned how to handle the other 90%.

             "We are managers of 100% of what God gives to us not just 10%"

             Despite what we might think, God is interested in our faithfulness with the smallest of things. “He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much; and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much” (Luke 16:10). Small things are small things, but faithfulness with a small thing is a big thing.

             I encourage you to press on, commit to be faithful with small things and commit your finances to God.  Ask God, through his word and Spirit, to show you what your next step should be.

             If you are interested in practical help with your finances from a biblical perspective, here are some online resources:

             Eternal Perspective Ministries - Randy Alcorn 
             Crown Financial Ministries Canada
             Ron Blue Institute
             Dave Ramsey

             ]]> Something I say regularly is, "God makes the worst of sinners preachers". It forces a rebellious sinner like me into God's Word every day, every week. And that is a grace. So, while I'm a pastor, I nonetheless relate to the temptation to set aside Bible reading and prayer-because I'm human and we all have crooked hearts. But here's what you and I both know: Bible reading is an essential spiritual discipline. Scripture reveals the character and will of God in foundational and shaping ways and guides Jesus followers in Truth. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=28 Mon, 16 Dec 2019 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/28/Bible-Reading--Faith-Engagement-Period

             Something I say regularly is, "God makes the worst of sinners preachers". It forces a rebellious sinner like me into God's Word every day, every week. And that is a grace.

             So, while I'm a pastor, I nonetheless relate to the temptation to set aside Bible reading and prayer—because I'm human and we all have crooked hearts. But here's what you and I both know: Bible reading is an essential spiritual discipline. Scripture reveals the character and will of God in foundational and shaping ways and guides Jesus followers in Truth.

             Recent research from the Center for Bible Engagement (CBE) is proving this point:

             "A key discovery from the CBE research is that the life of someone who engages scripture 4 or more times a week looks radically different from the life of someone who does not. In fact, the lives of Christians who do not engage the Bible most days of the week are statistically the same as the lives of non-believers."

             This is a fascinating finding: reading the Bible 4+ days a week is critical for growth in the Christian faith. 

             The data speaks for itself and is a crucial reality for followers of Jesus to really grasp and respond accordingly:

             

             

             

             Author and pastor, Scott Sauls, makes the point this way:

              

              So I want to give you the same challenge I'm giving myself afresh in 2020. Get in the Word daily. Take a day off a week, sure, but four, five, six, seven days a week, get in the Word, get close to Jesus, hear Him in His own words and let your life be shaped accordingly.

             As followers of Jesus our posture is to be one of submitted to God under His Word, not submitting the Word to ourselves. Timothy Keller put it this way, "Contemporary people tend to examine the Bible, looking for things they can't accept; but Christians should reverse that, allowing the Bible to examine us, looking for things God can't accept. Then the sweet grace offered, the beauty of his love, will mean something to you." This only happens when we live in the Scriptures with a posture of submission.

             The best way to be a committed student of the Word is to have a plan. One way to go about that is to read through books of the Bible. Read one of the gospels, then read Genesis, then Acts, then one of the prophet books, etc. Another way to have a plan is to follow one of the many solid Bible Reading Plans that are out there. Some lead you through the Bible in a year. Others lead you through the Bible in two years. Some are chronological, others get you in both the Old Testament and the New every day. 

             Committing to Bible reading is to put the spiritual in spiritual disciplines. It will bless your faith like nothing else. To have a plan is to put the discipline in spiritual disciplines. Some will say that it's legalistic to hold yourself to such a task. But those are the same people who rarely (if ever) crack their Bibles and whose faith tends to look less like Jesus and more like something unattractive. Like Scott Sauls said, the more we are with Jesus the more we will be like Him. That is the goal of the Christian life in response to grace.

             Again, the goal isn't to breeze through passages in lightning speed but not absorb their meaning. The goal is to encounter God, to know Him, and to meditate on His Word. So for that reason, I advocate for intentional Bible reading and meditating on what you read more than simply breezing through a few chapters to tick a box.

             I hope the following resources can steer you in the right direction. And I hope, more than anything, that you will take up your Bible and read. There is no greater task that you can commit to, Jesus-follower.

             RECOMMENDED RESOURCES

             • Read the Bible in a Year with TGC
             • The M'Cheyne Bible Reading Plan linked through the ESV Bible website. The site automatically gathers all of your reading onto one page for simplicity and if you miss a day you can make easy adjustments. 
             • D.A. Carson's For the Love of God is a wonderful (and free!) companion devotional book to use alongside your Bible Reading Plan 
             • Additionally, here are 10 Bible Reading Plans from Crossway—These are especially helpful because of the many formats available (RSS, iCal, mobile, print, email). For example, if you have a long commute to work, consider listening to the Bible in a year. Whoever has ears to hear, let them hear (Rev. 2:29).
             • Here is a list of 15 Bible Reading Plans compiled by Ligonier Ministries. 
             • Consider downloading this Bible app, which has several good plans.
             • Here is a simple print-off version of the M'Cheyne Bible Reading Plan.  
             ]]> This seminar was an important night in the life of our church. Because if the church is unable or unwilling to 1) Address the most pressing cultural issue of our day and, 2) Resource our people to engage gender and sexual minorities in the way of Jesus, then we hurt our witness and do nothing to bridge the massive divide that exists between church and culture. Said positively, thinking through how to be a compelling Christian witness towards the LGBT community goes a long way in building bridges between the church and culture for the sake of the Kingdom. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=29 Mon, 18 Nov 2019 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/29/LGBTQ-And-The-Church

             This seminar was an important night in the life of our church. Because if the church is unable or unwilling to 1) Address the most pressing cultural issue of our day and, 2) Resource our people to engage gender and sexual minorities in the way of Jesus, then we hurt our witness and do nothing to bridge the massive divide that exists between church and culture. Said positively, thinking through how to be a compelling Christian witness towards the LGBT community goes a long way in building bridges between the church and culture for the sake of the Kingdom.

             The great cause of poor love of people and poor theology is the persistence of the false dichotomy that we can only do one or the other. But it’s not the Bible or people. It’s always the Bible and people. Jesus is described as full of grace and truth. When the Bible gets wielded as a weapon against people for the sake of “truth” or the Bible is adapted or rejected in order to “love” we’ve missed the way of Jesus.

             Jesus got hit from both sides. He preached radical truth (Lustful look = Adultery) and took flack for it; yet was radically compassionate (friend of tax-collectors & sinners) and took flack for it. So if you're not regularly critiqued from both sides you're probably not following the way of Jesus very closely!

             When the Bible gets wielded as a weapon against people for the sake of “truth” or the Bible is adapted or rejected in order to “love” we’ve missed the way of Jesus.

             Missional Ecclesiology

             Many churches function this way: Behave the right way, believe the right things, and then we’ll let you in and belong. A missional church functions this way: We're glad you're here, we want to love you, and we want you to meet Jesus (not as a bait & switch but out of genuine desire for your good), and ultimately we’ll trust that intimacy with Jesus will produce the spiritual formation that He will require.

             In other words, we can start on the edges and work in (behaviour modification) or we can start at the centre and work outwards (recognizing that people need to embrace Christ and then be transformed from the inside-out). 

             Church is messy and we have two options. We can be messy in a good way or messy in a bad way. Let me paraphrase Caleb Kaltenbach, from his book Messy Grace: When we don’t expect each other as fellow believers to be perfect, room is created to work out the struggles between you and God. No one views themselves with superiority but instead are more than happy to walk alongside you in the journey. At times it will be messy and confusing when we try to show both grace and truth, but that’s a tension of the tightrope we are to constantly attempt to walk. Most of us aren’t comfortable with church being messy but I think that this kind of posture and context for ministry makes church messy in a good way. If we get this wrong, our church will be a place that’s messy in a bad way. Because if our church is a place where people can’t be honest, we’re creating sanctuaries for fake people. Ultimately, our church becomes a Pharisee factory.

             Our church must be a place where "it's ok not to be ok". Where we can be honest and transparent and find that the person next to us is just as messed up as we are. And yet also find a culture that is set on not leaving each other there. Ultimately, the greatest gift we can give one another is a culture where we love, draw, spur on, and entreat one another toward Jesus.

             Tightrope Walkers

             Rainbow stickers are on the entrance windows of a lot of businesses and public spaces. Do you know what they mean? They mean 'This is a safe space' for the LGBT+ community. The church should be the safest of spaces for these individuals but unfortunately, the opposite has often been the case. 

             We at Central hold a historic view of the Bible when it comes to sexuality. But our goal is to be exceedingly biblical in all of it: exceedingly loving, exceedingly compassionate, exceedingly counter-cultural, exceedingly unique as a family of faith. Truth without love is the ugliest form of fundamentalism. But love without truth is mere sentimentality. Neither of these extreme poles are ultimately truthful or loving. 

             In the middle, full of grace and truth, is the tightrope we are called to walk as followers of Jesus. It's not easy. It's not neat and tidy. But this and this alone is the way of Jesus.

             Truth without love is the ugliest form of fundamentalism. But love without truth is mere sentimentality. Neither of these extreme poles are ultimately truthful or loving. 

             Definitions

             We often fear what we don't know or understand. And functioning out of fear doesn't go well, generally speaking. Wise decisions and loving actions are not typical descriptors of a culture of fear. Yet, I have found, that many of those in the church operate out of fear rather than truth and grace when it comes to LGBT+. So lets learn about some terms we frequently hear these days.

             GENDER DYSPHORIA
             A psychological term that has been given to describe somebody who feels high levels of incongruence or disconnect between their internal sense of who they are (often called gender identity) versus their biological sex. When we think 'euphoria' we think: positive. 'Dysphoria' on the other hand is a negative, and for those who experience gender dysphoria, it can be deeply distressing.
             For many, it’s so deeply distressing that it can rise to the level where it’s a diagnosable disorder as a mental health concern (gender identity disorder), and should  then be responded to as other mental health concerns would be.

             TRANSGENDER
             A broad umbrella term that can mean anything from somebody who believes they are the opposite sex of their biological body (I am a woman, even if I have the body of a man); or somebody who identifies as transgender to mean the dysphoria they live with (to describe the incongruence they experience but don’t believe they actually are the opposite gender), or others who don’t match the stereotype of masculinity or femininity (therefore, questioning for those reasons).

             CISGENDER
             A term for people whose gender identity matches the sex that they were assigned at birth (if I find myself in a setting where pronouns are being used in introductions, I might introduce myself as cisgender with the preferred pronouns of he/him/his).

             INTERSEX
             A general term used for a variety of conditions in which a person is born with reproductive or sexual anatomy that doesn’t seem to fit the typical definitions of female or male. Intersex people are individuals born with any of several variations in sex characteristics including chromosomes, gonads, sex hormones, or genitals that do not fit the typical definitions for male or female bodies. A person may be born with mosaic genetics, so that some of her cells have XX chromosomes and some of them have XY or a person may be born with genitals that seem to be in-between the usual male and female types.
             Some examples of intersex conditions (from American Psychological Association): Congenital adrenal hyperplasia; 5-alpha-reductase deficiency; Partial androgen insensitivity; Penile agenesis; Klinefelter syndrome; Turner syndrome; Vaginal agene]]> So how do we navigate our technological moment as followers of Jesus who prioritize shaping our lives according to the will and ways of Jesus? How do we reclaim real life in a world of devices? What does it look like to follow Jesus in the digital age? https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=30 Thu, 17 Oct 2019 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/30/Following-Jesus-In-The-Digital-Age

             As I walked my dog one afternoon recently I was struck by what I saw. In a grassy area in my neighbourhood with two park benches, a couple sat on the one bench both looking down at their phones. A man sat on the other bench doing the same. Beside him, a man pushing his infant in a stroller had stopped and was scrolling through his phone. Beside him was a man in a parked car staring down at his phone. I could see five individuals as I walked by with my dog. All of them were sitting or standing still, looking down at their phones, with only their thumbs moving. It was eery.

             This wouldn't have made sense even ten years ago.

             So how do we navigate our technological moment as followers of Jesus who prioritize shaping our lives according to the will and ways of Jesus? How do we reclaim real life in a world of devices? What does it look like to follow Jesus in the digital age?

             Social Media, Addiction, Anxiety, And Depression

             A Harvard research paper describes the dopamine rush that happens in our brains when people like our social media posts. It's very similar to the dopamine rush someone gets when doing cocaine. The most addictive online behaviours have been found to be social media use and online pornography consumption. Like never before, these dopamine rushes happen with little effort, the click of a button onto porn sites or a like or smiley emoji response a post put on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. How have we gotten here?!

             Here's the problem, social media use and online pornography consumption are leading causes in the rise of anxiety and depression. 20% of those who use social media have social media anxiety disorder. One study found that those who limit their social media consumption to 30 minutes per day experienced less depression and loneliness than those who don't limit their social media use at all. 

             This isn't a post to say technology is all bad and social media is the devil. Not at all! I do, however, want to advocate for thoughtful consumption rather than being consumed by it. 

             Culture Creator or Culture Consumer?

             In Genesis 1:28 God gave humans born in the Image of God what has come to be known as the "Cultural Mandate". This means that we were created to reflect His glory, have dominion over the earth, and not only multiply but create cultures and civilizations. Far too much of our time today is spent consuming culture. I want to invite you to consume less and create more. You can do this through WRITING A BLOG POST, music, sports, the arts, cooking, writing, architecture, and even accounting! Let's contribute to creating culture, not just consuming culture for the good of our souls, minds, bodies, communities, and world.

             

             One study found that on average Canadians spend 52% of their screen time on their smartphones. As some of the research I've already mentioned has shown, there are dangers here. So here are four ways to build up device restraint:

             Building Up Device Restraint

             1. Turn off unnecessary notifications. Whether it's social media notifications, game notifications, edits to shared calendars, or whatever, the more unnecessary notifications you turn off, the less beeping and buzzing your phone will do, which will lead you to pick up your phone less.
             2. Be aware of the "flinch". The flinch is any scenario where, out of habit, you reach for your phone to fill the moment. You push your shopping cart up to the back of a lineup and feel the flinch to take out your phone. Your friend gets up from your table at the coffee shop to go use the washroom and you feel the flinch to take out your phone for the 3 minutes they're gone. Be aware of the flinch and fight the urge to fill every spare moment on your phone.
             3. Delete superfluous apps. Any apps on your phone or tablet that don't add value, delete them. If you've got 40 games on your device, delete 37 of them! If you have 3 or more social media accounts, get rid of the rest and delete the app. This will help you use your device for more primary uses.
             4. Find things to replace device time. The next time you're bored and want to pull out your phone to just surf around, pick up that book that's been sitting on the coffee table for a year stuck at chapter 3. Get up a make a smoothie or a cup of tea. Go for a walk or strike up a conversation with one or more people in your house and just hang out and be present.

             

             As I said, this isn't a post against technology but instead a post that's advocating for digital wisdom and discernment. In fact, technology can be a great help in supporting your desire to be wise about technology.

             Using Technology to Support Wise Use of Technology

             1. Make use of timer and parameter settings on your devices. Whether it's the Nintendo Switch app or the parental controls on a smartphone, there are a number of settings you can adjust to limit the amount of time the device can be used for or the access it has.
             2. Utilize WiFi Controls. Devices like KidsWifi (also known as KiWi) and Disney Circle plug in and connect to your household WiFi signal and give you the ability to set parameters around when the WiFi signal is available (eg. 8am-8pm) as well as filtering and monitoring content.
             3. Use Online Accountability Software on all your devices. Want to avoid accessing inappropriate content online either by accident or on purpose? Want your family members to be restricted from being able to access mature content? Make use of great accountability software like Covenant Eyes (my recommendation) or X3 Watch. Not only does it block sites but it also sends accountability reports to others.

             

             10 Bible Verses To Lean Into When You're Stressed 
             23% of Canadians over the age of 15 report that most days are “quite a bit” or “extremely” stressful, and that number rises to 30% among the 35 to 54 age group. There are a number of important ways to address stress and anxiety in our lives, including professional intervention. Include this foundational approach: Meet God in His Word, specifically, dwell on the promises of God like these that speak into your circumstances.

             The Church is a Family, Not an Event
             The Bible refers to fellow Christians as "brothers and sisters," but how often do we treat them asfamily? It's time to reclaim the church as something we belong to rather than just an event venue.

             

             Why Your Church Should Invest In Church Planting Now 
             As I read this I thought, 'Yes! We are experiencing every one of these challenges and joys as we plant churches locally and globally as a church family.'
             "Want your church to be more like the early church? Get involved in church planting."

             How To Lead A Women's Ministry In A Complementarian Church 
             Our church has male elders and loves to equip women to discover and utilize their gifts to serve, teach, lead, and flat-out flourish. Here is another voice that shares what that looks like from her vantage point:
             "My job is to know their needs well enough to communicate them to our leadership. It’s to teach the women about what it means to be a healthy woman in the Kingdom. To encourage them in their marriages. To remind them that motherhood is worth it. To listen to their questions about their careers, roommates, family, and future. To see a woman who is caring for her aging parents, to look her in the eyes and remind her that she still matters and is relevant and the church needs her. To encourage the weary widow in her hospital bed. To sit with the weeping, the seeking, the downtrodden. This is Gospel work, not outsourced but further engaged because a woman is working alongside the men, a complement to the work that is never quite finished."

             1525 The Anabaptist Movement Begins 
             We're a Community Church. It's one of the things I love about Central. A marriage of those who previously belonged to Reformed, Catholic, Baptist, Pentacostal, Presbyterian, and so on. We lead with Jesus. We are, though, proudly Mennonite Brethren as well. 
             While we might not quote Menno Simons much or talk a great deal about the MB world, our Confession of Faith and church ethos have been shaped by our Anabaptist roots. And what deep roots in rich soil they are.
             "Hated by Protestants and Catholics alike, these "radical reformers" wanted to not merely reform the church but restore it."

             

             How Do You Encourage A Young Family Struggling With Family Devotions? 

             ]]> A mission is an aim or destination. A philosophy of ministry is how we intend to reach that aim or arrive at our intended destination. Our Mission at Central is to be authentic followers of Jesus who lead others to follow Him. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=32 Wed, 09 Jan 2019 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/32/Centrals-Philosophy-On-Ministry

             A mission is an aim or destination. A philosophy of ministry is how we intend to reach that aim or arrive at our intended destination. Our Mission at Central is to be authentic followers of Jesus who lead others to follow Him. 

             Most evangelical churches have some articulation of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), of making disciples by baptizing them and teaching them the way of Jesus, as their mission (as they should). There is little diversity in that regard (and there shouldn't be). But there is great diversity in the philosophy of ministry (the how we'll get there). And there should be. A number of factors, including contextualization, dictate a church's methodology. 

             A Doctrinal Statement articulates unity of belief.
             A Mission Statement articulates unity of destination.
             A Philosophy of Ministry articulates unity of method.

              

             Methodology, as boring as that sounds to many, is critically important for this reason: if we all want to go to New York City as a church family (that'd be fun!) that means we all agree on destination. But if some of us want to go by plane while some of us (for a reason that makes no sense to me) want to take Amtrak, we've got a problem. We're unified in destination but not in how to get there.

             
             

             So if making disciples is our aim and destination, how do we approach that high and holy task at Central? The short answer is that our values articulate our methodology: By being Centred on the Gospel; Rooted in the Bible; Gathered in Community; Empowered by the Spirit; Equipped for Ministry; and Sent on Mission. 

             Let me unpack three of the six below because I think it will help give a sense of our methodology:

             [Jesus] gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain...to maturity.

             (Ephesians 4:11-13)

             Equipped for Ministry

             Many churches function this way: Support the pastors in their ministry. Whereas the pastors of Central seek to support you in your ministry. That is a massive distinction.

             The way we seek to see people come to Christ and grow in Christ is not primarily through supporting the pastor in his ministry but by supporting the congregation in their ministry. Everything we do flows from that conviction.

             Centred on the Gospel

             We preach the gospel every Sunday because the gospel isn't just the start of faith that you move on from but the very essence of our faith. We want the gospel to permeate and define every aspect of our lives and ministry. As we proclaim and apply the gospel thoroughly our congregation will come to know, believe, live and love the gospel and share it with others. 

             When that happens church isn't simply "come and see" but also "go and be". It isn't "bring people to be converted by the professionals" but "go see those in your life converted". The journey to faith is often a long and messy road and the church certainly plays a part in that, but so do you. You play a key role not merely a minor supporting role.

             Rooted in the Bible

             We preach expositionally at Central. What that means is that when we gather on Sundays we walk through books of the Bible a few verses at a time and seek to understand what those verses mean in their context and then how they apply to us individually and corporately in ours.

             We preach expositionally at Central. What that means is that when we gather on Sundays we walk through books of the Bible a few verses at a time and seek to understand what those verses mean in their context and then how they apply to us individually and corporately in ours.

             This approach accomplishes a few things. It reveals the gospel in all of Scripture. We preach through Old Testament books, New Testament books, and the various genres found in Scripture. We help our church see that everything in the Bible is either preparation for the gospel, presentation of the gospel, or participation in the gospel. 

             This pattern also consistently reinforces our trust in the authority of the Bible and that everyone can approach the Bible as we do each Sunday: open it, read a passage, understand it, and apply it. In this sense, our preaching is also equipping ministry.

             We wrapped up our second year of running the Preaching Lab just before Christmas. Fourteen individuals participated this year, twelve the previous year.

             On our final night together I asked the group for some feedback. One individual said they came to the Lab because it was only later in his life that someone told him about Jesus and he wanted to grow at communicating the gospel so others wouldn't have to wait to hear about Jesus as long as he did. Another said that they were glad and encouraged to see a church with good preachers put the Lab on and train rather than saying "we're good". We offer ministries like the Preaching Lab for precisely that reason: equipping for ministry.

             Our philosophy of ministry or methodology is not to have 3 leaders empowered and equipped to minister but for our leaders to equip the 1000+ Jesus-followers who call Central home to minister.

             Our methodology is not to have 3 leaders empowered and equipped to minister but for our leaders to equip the 1000+ Jesus-followers who call Central home to minister.

             I get a lot of joy from seeing those at Central taking part in our mission of making and growing disciples. It is far more satisfying when it is a group project. People discovering gifts, being stretched in those gifts while applying the mission of God to our lives, this is what it's all about! 

             If you've been watching from the sidelines for a while I want to invite you to jump in and participate in the mission. As you do, you help us fulfill our philosophy of ministry: the people of God participating in the mission of God for the glory of God. 

             ]]> There is a commercial that comes on all the time that sends a chill up my spine every time I see it. The scene is of a woman giving herself (in many forms) a pep-talk about how she can do it all. She can get everything done for Christmas because it's up to her to make Christmas great for her family. I have no idea what this ad is trying to sell, which is the case for most modern advertising, but this one sticks with me. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=33 Mon, 17 Dec 2018 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/33/To-The-Drained-Mom

             There is a commercial that comes on all the time that sends a chill up my spine every time I see it. The scene is of a woman giving herself (in many forms) a pep-talk about how she can do it all. She can get everything done for Christmas because it's up to her to make Christmas great for her family. I have no idea what this ad is trying to sell, which is the case for most modern advertising, but this one sticks with me.

             It sticks because it's playing into the absolutely absurd notion that we, as moms, have one job at Christmas, and that is to run ourselves ragged making it magical for everyone in our family. We must be prepared for anything and everything at all times, without fail.

             This reality sits anxiously on the shoulders of each and every mom this time of year.

             I felt it this weekend when I realized a terrible error in our plans made for us being double booked and my kids would potentially have to miss seeing their cousins on Christmas. The disappointment and feelings of failure radiated through my bones, not just for an instant or evening but until the problem was finally fixed a few days later and we were able to balance our schedule again.

             If your anything like me, you’ve definitely starred blankly at your calendar at least three times this month just soaking in all the things. Because there are so many things. And you’ve probably forgotten some of the important stuff already, like the costume for the School pageant and the baking for the fundraising bake sale, and the gift card for the bus driver. I certainly have.

             

             How do we do it all and what if something gets missed? If you don't happen to be a super laid-back mom who takes everything in stride and looks good doing it and your anything like me, which is the exact opposite of that unicorn-of-a-mom than you are recognizing the seriousness of the home-stretch of this day. Today, the week before Christmas. This is the last week to get it all done. And you may be weary and wondering what the point of any of it even is.

             I ask you to take a moment. Breath in and out and ponder 1 Kings 8 with me. Read it here.

             Let me set another stage. Solomon has brought the Ark of the Covenant into the now-complete Temple and says a prayer of dedication in honor of the momentous occasion. Because the moment was indeed momentous as the presence of the Lord would now reside in the Temple. This was historic for the Israelites and everyone present would have known it.

             Especially Solomon.

             But then Solomon starts to pray. And he utters these words,

             “But will God indeed dwell on the earth? Behold, heaven and the highest heaven cannot contain you; how much less this house that I have built!”

             Solomon understood the greatness of his God and he admits the inadequacies of his own hands. The Temple was an architectural masterpiece. Solomon could have thought himself a genius for constructing such a building. He could have thought himself as one of the greatest Kings ever to walk the earth as he built the structure the Lord would reside in. But he doesn’t.

             He knows his little Temple could never contain his grand God. He knows his sinful hands could not erect a home big enough for the Lord.

             And yet, the Lord chose to dwell among them in this fashion.

             Think of Jesus becoming flesh. Becoming a child. His mother and father could touch Him and hug Him. His disciples could sit at His feet and learn from Him. He became flesh, fully human and fully God.

             He chose to dwell among us this way. Even though His grandness surpasses all of our understanding. Even though He holds all things together, and with His words creates and calms. He chose to become bound by skin, so that He could not only have compassion on us but be empathic to our struggle. So He could bare our sin and die.

             He is that good and that grand. No temple can contain Him and yet he dwelt among us. For us. His people. Who need Him so desperately.

             Dear weary mom, the magical Christmas you are trying to create pails in comparison to the majesty of Christ. And that's ok. If you find yourself paralyzed by the to-do-list (or you haven't been able to get passed me mentioning giving a gift to the bus-driver), sit down, walk away from your calendar, breath and take in the Saviour.

             It's not up to you to make Christmas magical, Jesus already did that! 

             ]]> A single woman in our church told me after the sermon, "I've been a Christian for 20 years and I've never heard a sermon on singleness before". That's a shame. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=34 Thu, 22 Nov 2018 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/34/Single-And-Ready-ToLeverage-It-For-The-Gospel

             A single woman in our church told me after the sermon, "I've been a Christian for 20 years and I've never heard a sermon on singleness before". That's a shame. 

             And when churches are silent on things like singleness unbiblical views often take root and become a part of the church culture. Texts like 1 Corinthians 7 and the very life and ministry of Jesus push back on the misconceptions like single people are incomplete and need to find a spouse.

             Generally, the church has made too much of marriage (it's a good gift from God but not the be-all-end-all for a full, successful, godly life) and too little of singleness, which has led to innumerable insensitive remarks to singles in our midst and a lack of intentionality on the part of the broader church to be a vibrant community for the singles among us.

             So without further ado here are...

             5 WAYS YOU CAN BE FULFILLED & FLOURISH AS A SINGLE, UNMARRIED PERSON

             1. FIND YOUR IDENTITY IN CHRIST

             This is for everybody. 

             We place our identity in lesser, temporal things that are fleeting. Yet we can’t take our bank accounts with us when we die, how high the job ladder we climbed won’t matter, how big our house was will be completely insignificant. What matters in this life is what we did with Jesus — He’s all that’s eternal — and therefore our identities should be in Christ.

             For many singles, the prospect of a spouse is consuming. A spouse is not meant to be a god, they’re meant to be a gift. A spouse is seen as a god and not a gift when: To find a spouse would be heaven; and, Not to would be hell.

             "A spouse is not meant to be a god, they’re meant to be a gift."

             
             Our hearts are created to worship something — they always do. But only God is the Divine that our hearts were designed to worship. Our identity, as Christians — as human beings, is meant to be wrapped up in Jesus.

             Like every Christian, singles need to wrestle their identity issues through and make Jesus their identity.

             2. CULTIVATE DEEP, CHRISTIAN FRIENDSHIPS

             The Apostle Paul had deep friendships. He and Barnabas spent years on church planting missions together, and because the Bible's real life they — like many friends — had a falling out at one point (Acts 15). Paul and Silas did prison time together. Luke the gospel writer and recorder of the Acts of the Apostles was by Paul's side a lot. Paul didn't just have male friends, he also had female friends like Phoebe and couple friends like Priscilla & Aquilla.

             Timothy was Paul's young protege. There's reference to his mother and grandmother in Scripture but no reference to his father. Paul, being single and childless, became his spiritual father. Look at how he opens a letter he wrote to him (2 Timothy): “To Timothy, my beloved child… I thank God…as  I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. As I remember your tears, I long to see you, that I may be filled with joy”. These are rich, rounded relationships.

             Singleness shouldn't equate to aching loneliness. Paul's life was not void of deep, Christian friendships. The whole church needs to be mindful of this and make every effort to have friendships with married couples, singles, older and younger generations, and all manner of ethnicities. 

             When God made Adam, the Bible states, "It is not good for the man to be alone" (Genesis 2:18). Sometimes that not good is answered by a community and not a spouse. 

             "Sometimes the 'not good' of Genesis 2 is answered by a community and not a spouse." 

             
             A word to the singles, cultivate deep, Christian friendships. A word to the broader church family, cultivate rounded community.

             3. SUBMIT YOUR SEXUALITY TO JESUS

             In our place and time, the Christian sex ethic — sex was created by God to be enjoyed exclusively in the context of marriage between a wife and her husband — is seen as laughable at best and hateful at worst. 

             Yet our commitmentless hook-up culture has devastating results. Sex is seen as a commodity to be pursued for self-gratification. That contradicts God's purpose for it which is to grow intimacy and commitment between spouses. Instead, people pursue the pleasure of sex without the commitment of marriage.

             And studies are showing that the results of the hook-up culture have physical, mental, and spiritual ramifications. It is deadening intimacy (commitmentless sex is actually less pleasurable sex), ramping up self-centredness (I want sex, not you), and stealing one’s ability to flip a switch and be monogamous, selfless, and committed one day.

             "The sexual revolution was supposed to liberate but it’s actually enslaved."

             
             The sexual revolution was supposed to liberate but it’s actually enslaved. I'm mindful of the fact that not only are we all sinners but we're all sinners sexually. And so this portion of the blog is not meant to fill the reader with shame and guilt and leave you there. It's meant to draw you to Jesus, the lover of your soul, and flood you with His grace when you come to Him in repentance and faith.

             "Don’t buy the lie that chastity makes you less than human. Jesus was single and was the most fully alive, fully human being to ever live."

             
             Who was the most fully alive, fully human being to ever live? Jesus — and He lived a celibate, single life. Question: Was He incomplete? Don’t buy the lie that chastity makes you less than human. Jesus was single and was the most fully alive, fully human being to ever live.

             4. IF YOU MARRY, MARRY SOMEONE ELSE PURSUING JESUS

             Some of you are given to singleness and others of you find yourself single and long for a spouse.

             In 1 Corinthians 7:39 the Apostle Paul writes that a widowed woman is free to marry whoever she wants, but only in the Lord. Simply put, he must be a follower of Jesus. This goes back to the identity in Christ point. Our lives, as Christians, are fixated on and revolve around Jesus. A Christian identity in Christ is not only incompatible but opposing to different worldviews. Money, purpose, family, morals all have completely different frameworks. Deepak Reju writes helpfully here about why a Christian should only marry a fellow believer and what to do if you find yourself in a marriage where your spouse isn't a believer or is a spiritually immature one.

             Don’t let your desire for a spouse (and children) trump the cause of Christ (which leads to the final point):

             5. LEVERAGE YOUR SINGLE YEARS FOR THE CAUSE OF THE GOSPEL

             The single years I speak of refer to the single years that some of you will have prior to marriage and for others it's the settled, whole life singleness some of you are given to. 

             When Paul says, The unmarried man is anxious about the things of the Lord... the unmarried or betrothed woman is anxious about the things of the Lord... I say this for your own benefit, not to lay any restraint upon you, but to promote good order and to secure your undivided devotion to the Lord (1 Corinthians 7:32-35) he's making an obvious point about an obvi]]> A couple of weekend's ago my family was at a birthday party where my nine-year-old son was triggered by a wasp. Being terrified of wasps, he ran towards me screaming and crying. He ran past 4-year-olds more composed than himself, and their wondering parents as well. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=35 Mon, 12 Nov 2018 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/35/When-Jesus-Hands-You-The-Spectrum

             A couple of weekend’s ago my family was at a birthday party where my nine-year-old son was triggered by a wasp. Being terrified of wasps, he ran towards me screaming and crying. He ran past 4-year-olds more composed than himself, and their wondering parents as well.

             At first, I was embarrassed, I have to admit. But really, I’ve been dealing with these kinds of behaviours since he was a baby. Large groups always bring out the worst. And that many eyes, ushers in a familiar twinge of sheepishness once again.

             After I had successfully calmed my son and brought him inside, my friend whose children’s birthday we were celebrating, walked up next to me and asked me if I was ok.

             Little did he know, I’d actually been having a rough day in general and the mere kindness in the question was forcing me to push down a well-spring of tears. I answered as jovially as I could muster, “Oh yes I’m fine, but I’m sorry about that!” He looked at me sternly and said, “What are you apologizing for?”…another question to thrust that pesky well-spring closer to the top. I pushed harder to keep from turning this birthday party into a therapy session. I answered, “We just don’t want to be disruptive”. To which he assured me would never be the case, he was just happy our kids were there.

             I finally let the well burst open into sobs later that evening in the privacy of my bathroom.  All the eyes were gone and it had been a rough day in many ways. But in that moment I was just grateful. We aren’t doing this alone, although some days that’s exactly how it feels.

             I haven’t written about this because I haven’t known how to.

             "We aren’t doing this alone, although some days that’s exactly how it feels."

             How do I even begin to express the range of emotion these last few months have brought up for us as a family?

             I don’t know how, so I’ll start with the facts. And the facts begin about 7 years ago after an awkward visit from my mom. I’ve written about it once before…but here we go again.

             My son was 2 1/2 and my daughter was just over 1 years old and I was steeped in the stay-at-home-mom-with-littles stage of life. I had two toddler’s and was so new at the motherhood game that most of the time I felt like I was loosing. Particularly when it came to my son. He was challenging, but he was two. So I consoled myself with the reality that every kid is challenging at two. But one thing that was different about my son was that he couldn’t communicate. He had no words. And ever since birth over-stimulation was a genuine issue for him, making him have almost impossible to deal with outbursts. This stimulation problem brought on a severe issue with night terrors for our little boy, which made us all perpetually exhausted.

             One day my mom stopped by for a visit to let me know her concerns for my boy and she encouraged me to get him assessed. I held it together, acting normal and receiving her concerns without revealing the pain vibrating inside me.

             She left. And I fell apart.

             She didn’t say anything my husband and I hadn’t already noticed, but he was two. And we had prayed for years for God to give us a child. Surely he wouldn’t give us one with special needs. As embarrassing as that is to admit, to my shame – in the dark moments – that's what I thought.

             Fast forward to a year later. Assessment time. After many sessions, lots of paperwork and a detailed report, our boy was flagged with a broad learning disability and a few other things, autism not being one of them. Ok. We had answers. We were warned that an assessment at age 3 may not give the best results, but early intervention is the best for kids, right? That’s what we thought. Now we had a full report – time to move on.

             Moving on, only meant moving into new challenges and new concerns. We experienced an elongated toddlerdom with both kids that seemed to last forever, many child development centre classes trying to teach self-regulation and speech, and night terrors became a very disruptive and serious part of our life that culminated in about 5 years of sleep troubles for our boy and by extension the rest of us.

             But the real kicker was school. As soon as school entered the picture, we found ourselves in a new world of wonder that felt a lot like running in the dark. I needed to be the advocate but didn’t even know what to advocate for. Something was still missing. There was a piece to this puzzle still very much unsolved. After more school conversations, doctor and pediatrician appointments, and speech pathologist meetings, we decided another autism assessment was in order.

             "I needed to be the advocate but didn’t even know what to advocate for."

             
             Fast forward to this past March after another, this time private assessment – our son is in fact, Autistic.

             There it is. Our answer. The one we’ve been fighting for, for literally years. There was a strange sense of relief to it. And yet, at the same time deep grief? What a conundrum.

             We wanted the answer, just because we wanted a answer. Something definitive, something that made sense and could help us help him. Something. And yet what it means for him, is altogether another thing. What this means for him, is a complete mystery to us. But its a mystery that we’re certain involves great difficulty.

             With labels comes clarity. However, with labels comes a characterization stamp that may not be true.

             It’s a spectrum – this autism thing. You’ve heard the term, and probably know what that means. It means every autistic person is different. The spectrum is wide which makes the term not a cookie cutter term. And we’re still figuring out what exactly that means for our son.

             But its a spectrum also in terms of this journey. It’s so many things. We’re so grateful for doctors and care workers and funding and answers and help from those we love. We’re also overwhelmed with lonely uncertainty. It’s been a rainbow of wonder this diagnosis. With layers still not experienced.

             "It’s a spectrum – this autism thing... But its a spectrum also in terms of this journey."

             Of course, no one can be certain about anything in parenting. There are no guarantees for any of us – regardless of special needs. And we are so grateful that our son is healthy, and not sick in a hospital somewhere. So many other families have it far worse.

             For us though, it’s the little things that reveal the uniqueness of this life we’ve been given. It’s things like needing to prepare an exit strategy when we plan to be at a large gathering, because of the looming threat of over-stimulation and struggle. It’s realizing we can’t go on that road trip to visit friends, because of the turmoil it will create about being far from home for so long. It’s repeating the same command over and over, only to realize I’m using language he still doesn’t understand. It’s the many conversations had before an event where candles will be present because of the terrible fear he has of fire.

             It’s trying to decide whats the right way to stretch and challenge him to grow and what is stretching and challenging him too much.

             We just can’t do everything all the other families get to do and it’s always been tha]]> In Part 1 we said that disciples of Jesus are disciple-makers (or said more plainly: followers of Jesus help others follow Jesus). Now in Part 2, we want to emphasize the fact that those who are growing followers of Jesus are those who can help others grow. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=36 Thu, 01 Nov 2018 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/36/Working-On-Your-Own-Discipleship

             In Part 1 we said that disciples of Jesus are disciple-makers (or said more plainly: followers of Jesus help others follow Jesus). Now in Part 2, we want to emphasize the fact that those who are growing followers of Jesus are those who can help others grow.

             What Is A Disciple?

             A disciple is a student, a learner, a follower, an apprentice. They have not arrived but they are on a trajectory, like every good apprentice, towards doing what Jesus did. 

             A disciple is anyone who has heard and obeyed the call of Jesus when He said, "Follow me". That's the beginning of a relationship, a relationship that continues, grows and produces fruit. 

             Christian discipleship begins with acceptance of the free gift of grace, a relationship with Jesus, and the promise of eternal life. The only natural response to this encounter with the radical love and grace of Jesus is radical discipleship. 

             In the Great Commission, Jesus told His followers to make disciples by going (mission), baptizing (representing salvation), and teaching all that Jesus commanded (knowing and growing in Jesus).

             The concept of apprenticeship should both drive us and free us. It drives us because apprentices learn and apply the trade. There is work to be done and we are tasked with acquiring the know-how to do it. And it frees us because we are not left to our own devices but given the Holy Spirit inside us and accepted not on the merits of how well we do but how perfectly Christ has already done.

             How Can I Grow as a Disciple of Jesus?

             Jazz musicians dedicate hundreds of hours of practice time to music theory and scales so that when the time comes to play a solo their improvisation looks effortless. And at the moment it is, but that's because of the discipline. 

             We will look at 7 ways you can grow as a disciple. These are disciplines of the Christian life that take work and commitment, while at the same time the very place you will find greater freedom in your life. The outcome: competent apprentices of Jesus.

             1. Be Centred on the Gospel
             2. Be Rooted in the Word
             3. Gather in Community
             4. Manifest the Empowerment of the Holy Spirit
             5. Get Equipped for Ministry
             6. Live as a Sent One
             7. Be Dependent in Prayer

             1. Be Centred on the Gospel

             To be centred on the gospel means letting the gospel (the centrality of the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus) define every area of our lives.

             Tim Keller shows the contrast between religion based on our own moralistic behaviour and the gospel based on the finished work of Jesus Christ. He shows how these opposing worldviews work out in a few different contexts of life:

             

             This is merely the beginning of how a life centred on the gospel works itself out in every area of life. Joe Thorn put it this way,  “The gospel-centered life is a life where a Christian experiences a growing personal reliance on the gospel that protects him from depending on his own religious performance and being seduced and overwhelmed by idols.”

             Do you see how living with this emphasis and applying this emphasis to every sphere of your life would help you grow as a disciple of Jesus?

             2. Be Rooted in the Word

             God wrote a book. He did that so that we could know Him. The Bible tells us what God is like, what we are like (sinners), what God has done about it (redemption), and how we are called to live in response. 

             I had a mentor who would say to me (on a concerningly frequent basis!), "God makes the worst of sinners preachers". Here's what he meant: By God's grace, he makes some men preachers so that they are forced to live in the Word when they otherwise would not. And God uses that. I completely agree. God has taken the crooked sinner that I am and given me a rhythm of life where I need to live in the Word each and every week in order to proclaim His Truth to His people. And in the process, my heart is nourished and I grow.

             The goal is that we would all delight in the Word. The reality is that there will be seasons when we don't. However, that should not keep us from the discipline of rooting ourselves in the Word of God. He speaks to us through His Word, revealing Himself, ourselves, the beauty of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and how we are to live in response. 

             Do you see how being rooted in the Bible grows a disciple of Jesus?

             3. Gather in Community

              Discipleship happens in the context of the local church. Ricky Jones put it this way:

             "I want you to understand that being a part of the universal church without submitting to a local church is not possible, biblical, or healthy.

             First, it’s simply not possible. To imply you can be part of the greater community without first being part of the smaller is not logical. You cannot be part of Rotary International without also being part of a local chapter. You cannot be part of the universal human family without first being part of a small immediate family.

             Second, it’s not biblical. Every letter in the New Testament assumes Christians are members of local churches. The letters themselves are addressed to local churches. They teach us how to get along with other members, how to encourage the weak within the church, how to conduct ourselves at church, and what to do with unrepentant sinners in the church. They command us to submit to our elders, and encourage us to go to our elders to pray. All these things are impossible if you aren’t a member of a local church.
             

             Asking where the Bible commands you to be a church member is like asking where the USGA rulebook for golf insists you be a human. The whole book is addressed to the church."

             The New Testament places a major emphasis on the need for Christians to be accountable to each other. That accountability and mutual upbuilding towards Christlikeness happens exclusively in the context of the local church in the New Testament.

             We say this in our Baptism & Ministry Partnership Class: diverse, broad, committed community is important for your faith and that happens in the local church. 

             Do you see how investing fully in a local church grows disciples?

             4. Manifest the Empowerment of the Holy Spirit

             Think about professional athletes with me for a moment. They are incredibly disciplined. They watch everything they eat, they live and breathe the game, and they practice like crazy, which sharpens their mechanics and muscle memory. While that's all true, there's something else going on too. They're gifted. Like, exceptionally gifted. And so are you.

             The Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead dwells in every believer (Romans 8:11). The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 12:4-7, says, ⁴Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; ⁵and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; ⁶and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone. ⁷To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good.

             There are two important things here: 1. Every believer is given manifestations of the Spirit, and,]]> https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=37 Mon, 29 Oct 2018 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/37/Must-Reads--Curated-Content

             JERKS FOR JESUS

             Why the Temple cleansing (etc) isn't your permission to always be fighting.

             A NEW HIGH

             With the legalization of marijuana, there are a few things we should consider beyond whether or not it should be legal. Such as, why is everyone trying to escape so badly?!

             "We want to calm down, rev up, ignore our problems, lubricate our relationships, reward ourselves, thrill ourselves, soothe ourselves, and manage pain of all sorts. And we are offered a vast landscape of consumable goods to do these things, each good promising relief, release, thrills, acceptance, belonging and satisfaction: not just wine and beer, but also sugar and fat and anti-aging creams and a non-stop stream of noise and distractions, affirmation and titillation, through our omnipresent screens. Now we have one more way of rewarding ourselves with the numbness of escape and the excitement of altering our brains. As as a society, we are willing to accept with only the quietest of protests that all we can do is join the rush of the masses pouring through that now open floodgate."

             WHY WE ACTUALLY CRAVE THE WRATH OF GOD

             "As followers of Jesus, when we read stories about Yahweh’s anger or wrath or judgment, we feel like we need to apologize to our friends or explain it away or hide this socially unacceptable part of God away in the back room, as if Yahweh needs a little PR help to survive in the modern world....

             We need to live in the tension between love and anger. Most of us think of love and anger as incompatible. How can you love somebody and be angry at them? That just shows how much we still have to learn about love."

             THE STRANGE ENCOURAGEMENT OF THE CHURCH'S APPALLING HISTORY

             The lives of our greatest heroes often undermined the gospel they so eloquently preached. What do we do with that?

             10 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT $

             "The goal of every moment is more than personal happiness. It is growth in holiness. What would it look like to spend your money with that in view?"

             WHY CHRISTIANS DON'T GO TO CHURCH (AND WHY THEY MUST)

             "I truly believe in the paradox of church attendance: While you don’t have to go to church to be a Christian, if you never go to church you probably aren’t a Christian. But I have a hard time speaking that truth to my neighbor."

             ]]> Christians tell others about Christ. Disciples of Jesus are disciple-makers. Said more plainly, followers of Jesus help others follow Jesus. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=38 Mon, 01 Oct 2018 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/38/What-Stops-You-From-Making-Disciples

             Christians tell others about Christ. Disciples of Jesus are disciple-makers. Said more plainly, followers of Jesus help others follow Jesus. 

             We see this in the final words of Jesus in Matthew's gospel:

             Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.
             (Matthew 28:19-20)

             In many instances, we've taken the Great Commission of "Go and tell" and changed it to "Come and see", assuming that if we just get an unbelieving person to come to church with us it's a win and our job is done. Worse still, in many cases, we have responded to Jesus, "no" when He has told us "go".

             The final words of Jesus before His ascension are:

             You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth. (Acts 1:8)

             The final words of Jesus should be our first work. But so often they aren't. Jesus tells us to "Go" but in many of our lives we've simply said "No". Why is that?

             What Stops Me From Making Disciples?

             Consider this question: "What stops me from helping others follow Jesus?" These are some of the responses I hear:

             I'm An Introvert

             Disciple-making isn't just for extroverts, it's for Christians. The context, volume, and circumstances may vary in what your disciple-making relationships look like. But, hear this my fellow introverts, not making a point of discipling others is not a personality issue, it's an obedience issue.

             "Not making a point of discipling others is not a personality issue, it's an obedience issue."

             It Feels Prideful

             Supposing you have something to offer others is only prideful if your posture is prideful. The reality is that if you've walked with Jesus for any amount of time there are others who have walked with Jesus less. 

             We ought not to approach a disciple-making opportunity with a posture of: "I have so much to teach this person" but instead: "God, in your grace, I prayerfully request that you use my feeble efforts and attempts to help others grow in Jesus".

             "It's not prideful to desire and be intentional in helping others follow Jesus." 

             A prideful heart tells someone, "I should disciple you" (which sounds like: you need a lot of work!). A humble heart says, "I'd love to make a point of getting together to encourage each other in the faith". 

             It's not prideful to desire and be intentional in helping others follow Jesus. 

             I Don't Know Enough

             If you are a true follower of Jesus, God doesn't expect you to share what you don't know but to share what you do know. We are told to make disciples by participating in two tasks: baptizing and teaching.

             Baptism is an outward sign of an inward transformation (death to life). It's a reference to conversion, of coming to saving faith in Jesus. Part of discipleship then is introducing people to Jesus. Share your life with those who do not yet believe and share the gospel with them. 

             "God isn't asking you to be what you're not in order to make disciples, He's inviting you to be who you are in Christ and share that with others."

             With brothers and sisters in the faith, it may mean initiating faith conversations by asking questions, sharing what you’re learning, opening the Bible and studying it together, and praying for them. These are all aspects of teaching them to observe all the commands of Jesus.

             God isn't asking you to be what you're not in order to make disciples, He's inviting you to be who you are in Christ and share that with others.

             Fear

             Fear that keeps us from obeying the call to make disciples is not from God. Fear with forward momentum towards disciple-making, on the other hand, drives us to depend on Jesus. And that's a good place to be.

             In Luke 12:11-12, Jesus said, 

             When they bring you before the synagogues and the rulers and the authorities, do not be anxious about how you should defend yourself or what you should say, for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.

             The setting is different but the scenario is similar in that it is frightening. The Holy Spirit will meet and inform us when we are put in the most frightening spots. Vibrant faith dwells here. When we step out in obedience to God's will and ways and He meets us there, we get joy and His mission advances in the world.

             "Fear with forward momentum towards disciple-making...drives us to depend on Jesus. And that's a good place to be."

             Where Jesus leads you, He provides.

             When Jesus sent out the 72 they had no idea how things would go — even anticipating rejection — and they were blown away by Jesus. They came back rejoicing. Don't miss out on this joy because of fear!

             I'm Too Busy

             Being a disciple of Jesus is the highest priority of our lives. And disciples make disciples. If your discipleship to Jesus is getting squeezed out it’s time to reevaluate EVERYTHING ELSE that you do. 

             "If making disciples is getting squeezed out it’s time to reevaluate EVERYTHING ELSE that you do."

             What If I'm Not Making Disciples?

             Throughout Matthew's gospel, he forces us to ask the question: if I'm not making disciples, am I really a disciple?

             Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men (4:19). Not everyone who says to me, 'Lord, Lord,' will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven (7:21). Go therefore and make disciples of all nations (28:19).

             If you're not making disciples it begs the question, are you really a disciple? The answer is either you're sick or you're dead (subtlety is not a forte of mine).

             When a couple faces the painful process of infertility they seek guidance in addressing it biologically because they recognize that something is wrong. Likewise, if reproduction isn't happening in a Christian's life there's something wrong that needs to be addressed.

             Out of the gate in a process of disciple-making it’s a crucial question to ask: do I really know the value of the Gospel if I don’t desire to make it known to the world? And if I desire to make it known but don’t, that too needs to be addressed.

             Abide In Jesus = Bear Much Fruit

             In John 15 we are given a helpful picture of how to be fruitful disciples of Jesus.

             I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. (15:5)

             Jesus is the True Vine and His disciples are the branches. Disciples of Jesus abide in Him and produce fruit. The basis of our fruitfulness is our union with Christ. In the rest of the passage, He seems to indicate that branches that don’t produce fruit aren’t true believers. Those who abide in Jesus bear much fruit not because of their independent greatness but because of their connectivity with the One who is Great!

             What is "fruit"? Fruit is an image for results produced from the life of the believer as she abides in Jesus. Fruit includes the growth of Christlike character in your own like (Galatians 5:22-23), bringing benefit and blessing in the lives of others]]> Prayer is speaking with God. It's so incredible that it's almost unfathomable. And yet if you struggle with prayer you are not alone. The majority of Jesus-followers struggle with prayer. Yet giving ourselves to prayer is so vital because we value and believe in the power of prayer. Not only that, we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the Church and world. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=39 Mon, 10 Sep 2018 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/39/Lets-Pray

             Prayer is speaking with God. It’s so incredible that it’s almost unfathomable. And yet if you struggle with prayer you are not alone. The majority of Jesus-followers struggle with prayer. 

             Yet giving ourselves to prayer is so vital because we value and believe in the power of prayer. Not only that, we believe that God answers prayer and uses it as a means of achieving His purposes in the Church and world.

             “We must not think that Christians are wasting time when they pray and praise.”

             C.H. Spurgeon

             Prayer in the Christian life is as integral as breathing to the human being. It is the difference between learning about God and walking with God in relationship. You can learn some facts about a person in your life but you can only have relationship with them through time spent together in communication.

             God has spoken and continues to speak to us primarily through His word and we speak to Him in prayer.

             “Prayer does not fit us for the greater work; prayer is the greater work.”
             Oswald Chambers

             Find any great move of the Spirit of God in history and you can trace it back to faithful servants of Christ, desperate and fervent in prayer.

             Jesus: The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few. Therefore pray earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out labourers into the harvest field. Luke 10:02

             Growing as a person and a people of prayer starts with creating space in your daily life to pray. Start small, with just a few minutes each day set aside for prayer. Then grow it from there, by extending the duration and frequency of your prayer times each day.

             My hope is that the prayer templates in this post help you grow in your prayerfully-dependent walk with Jesus:

             PRAY THE PSALMS

             In his book, Praying the Bible, Donald Whitney advocates for just that: When you pray, pray through a passage of Scripture, particularly a psalm.

             “The Psalms: they are designed to be prayed.”
             Gordon Wenham

             The best place to learn how to pray the Bible is to start in the Psalms. Give it a try.

             THE LORD’S PRAYER

             When the disciples of Jesus asked Him to teach them to pray He offered them what is now our model for prayer. We refer to it as The Lord’s Prayer but it would fit better to call it The Disciples’ Prayer.

             When Darrell Johnson wrote a book on the Lord’s Prayer he entitled it, 57 Words That Change The World (the prayer is 57 words in the original language), because when while it is short, it is rich, powerful, and makes a difference!

             There are 7 petitions in the prayer: the first three are about God’s honour, kingdom, and will, and the last four are about human needs. This is the right perspective because when we fix our eyes on God and see Him rightly, everything’s put into its proper perspective.

             Jesus isn’t giving us a prayer to pray as a mantra but as a model for our own prayer. We may choose to pray these exact words reflectively or use it as a model to direct our own words towards similar concerns.

             Try to recite The Lord’s Prayer from the heart at least once a day as a way of growing a life of prayer and praying the prayer Jesus taught us to pray:

             Our Father in Heaven	That Jesus invites and enables us to call God, “Father” reveals His goodness and grace. That He is our “Father in Heaven” reveals His greatness and glory.
             Hallowed be Your Name	Pray that God would be honoured and set apart as holy. Move toward praise and thanksgiving as you dwell on His attributes and character.
             Your Kingdom come, Your Will be done	Commit yourself to His will. Pray Kingdom prayers. Pray that what is true in heaven would be true here. Invite God to reveal any ways in which you are not seeking His Kingdom first.
             Give us our Daily Bread	Ask God to meet your basic needs today. Bring your petitions before your loving heavenly Father. Intercede on behalf of others by bringing their needs before Him.
             Forgive us our Debts as we forgive those who sin against us	Acknowledge and repent of your sin. Forgive others. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal unbelief and rebellion.
             Lead us not into Temptation	Ask God to reveal areas of temptation, weakness, and vulnerability to the evil one. Ask for grace and power to overcome sin and to experience deliverance from the evil one.

             PERSONAL PRAYER GUIDE

             In his book, The Hour That Changes The World, Dick Eastman outlines how you can spend an hour in prayer by spending 5 minutes on each of the following 12 aspects of prayer (or spend 2-3 minutes on each section for half-an-hour of prayer):

             1	Praise & Worship Psalm 115:1 Begin this time of prayer by praising. Take this time to praise and worship Him for who He is.
             2	Waiting on the Lord Psalm 46:11 | Romans 12:1 Waiting on the Lord means a silent soul surrender to God and His will. Ask Him to give you the strength to surrender your whole life to Him.
             3	Confession of Guilt and Sin Psalm 139:23-24 | 1 John 1:9 Ask Him to search you, know you, and cleanse you. This is the time to confess sins by name, admit that you are wrong, turn from your sins, and accept God’s forgiveness.
             4	Praying Scripture Psalm 119:9-16 The Bible is our prayer manual. The Bible is a book that needs to be believed and obeyed. The nature and character of God are revealed in Scripture and so are His promises. Thank God for His promises. Ask God for wisdom and strength to apply Scripture to your life.
             5	Watching Colossians 4:2 Be alert! Pray for God to keep you aware and ready while praying. The enemy wants to hinder and distract you, but Jesus wants us to stand firm against those attacks. Be alert of any promptings of God and mindful of any revelation from God.

             6	Intercession 1 Timothy 2:12 Pray for God’s purposes in the lives of others. To intercede is to stand between God and others and pray for their needs and ask for grace. Pray for the lost, perhaps someone you know specifically or the people group you are trying to reach.
             7	Petitions Philippians 4:6 | Matthew 7:7 Bring your needs to God in prayer. Come to Him in humility and meekness, yet with boldness as His dearly loved child.
             8	Thanksgiving 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Thank God for His provision for you and others. Thank God for something you’re particularly thankful for today. Thank Him for the gospel.
             9	Singing Psalm 100:1-2 Singing is one way of expressing your worship to God. Don’t be ashamed to sing to the God who loved you enough to purchase you with His own life. You can use and existing]]> On the Sermon on the Mount (the greatest sermon ever preached!), Jesus says that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart (Matthew 5:28). What person hasn't looked at someone other than their spouse and lusted? What person hasn't thought, "my life would be better if I was married to that person rather than my spouse" and lusted? What single hasn't been tempted to idolize a longed-for marriage partner rather than trusting Jesus for the sufficiency of His love, and lusted after another? https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=40 Mon, 16 Jul 2018 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/40/10-Ways The following practical strategies for fighting sexual temptation and sin and pursuing purity were mentioned in my sermon, Sanctity of Marriage, on the 7th Commandment, You shall not commit adultery.  On the Sermon on the Mount (the greatest sermon ever preached!), Jesus says that everyone who looks at a woman with lustful intent has already committed adultery with her in his heart (Matthew 5:28). What person hasn't looked at someone other than their spouse and lusted? What person hasn't thought, "my life would be better if I was married to that person rather than my spouse" and lusted? What single hasn't been tempted to idolize a longed-for marriage partner rather than trusting Jesus for the sufficiency of His love, and lusted after another? Jesus takes the 7th Commandment, You shall not commit adultery, and doesn't loosen it, He deepens it by saying that looking and lusting is adultery because the act has been committed in your heart, and after all, Jesus is after your heart. So what possible hope do we have? Is anybody capable of such purity? Only Jesus was and is perfectly pure and He kept the 7th Commandment against adultery for us. He transforms the 7th Commandment so that we'll run to Him for our transformation. To be cleansed and purified. It is in trusting in the pure perfection of Jesus for our salvation and the power of His Spirit to purify our adulterous lives that we have hope. Do not be deceived: neither the sexually immoral...nor adulterers... will inherit the kingdom of God. And such were some of you. But you were washed, you were sanctified, you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God. 1 Corinthians 6:9-11 Jesus continues to say if your right eye causes you to sin, tear it out and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body be thrown into hell. And if your right hand causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. For it is better that you lose one of your members than that your whole body go into hell (Matthew 5:29-30). This is hyperbolic language. Exaggeration for the sake of effect. What effect? That sin be taken seriously. Jesus is essentially saying, take drastic measures with surgical precision to address sexual sin in your life. Hate it. Crush it. Root it out.  Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry. Because of these, the wrath of God is coming. Colossians 3:5-6 10 Practical Strategies for Fighting Sexual Sin and Pursuing Purity 1. MAKE A COVENANT WITH YOUR EYES Jesus says that the eye is the lamp of the body (Matthew 6:22). The eye is the doorway to the mind so whatever one constantly looks at, one will dwell on and eventually act on. So much starts with looking. To look is not to lust...but to keep looking and to undress with your eyes...and objectify someone with how you look at them, is to progress from looking and seeing to looking and lusting and on it goes. Job, the guy who literally lost everything but gained the world by gaining a deeper relationship with God, said, I made a covenant with my eyes not to look lustfully at a young woman (Job 31:1). What he's saying is that with great intentionality he guarded his eyes as a continual discipline in order to fight for purity. In the book, Every Man's Battle, the writers refer to this discipline as bouncing your eyes. Meaning, when you see something that tempts you, bounce your eyes away from that temptation. Whether that be when you're out on the town, watching television, on the internet, or whatever. Bouncing your eyes is about looking the other way, changing the channel, or closing the webpage. Make a covenant with your eyes, watch what you look at and dwell on, and you'll curb a lot of temptation right there. 2. DWELL ON THE GOSPEL The Apostle Paul gives powerful advice, Whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things (Philippians 4:8).  We spend so much of our time living like atheists, meaning, we live out much of our day to day lives as if God doesn't exist. One of the reasons that prayer, reading and meditating on the Word of God, and dwelling on the gospel is so crucial — not as some devotional box to tick but as a discipline — is that it fixes your mind on things above, it reminds us of what our lives are really all about.  When our minds are filled with awe and wonder of God, His sovereignty, holiness, justice, and mercy (and on and on) it frames sexual temptation not as an alluring pleasure but as the hollow promise that kills that it is. Not only that, with the gospel fresh in our minds each day, we approach temptation through the lens of, "why am I tempted to find fulfillment and pleasure in this sinful desire/act rather than in Jesus?" "What am I intuitively believing porn/this person who is not my spouse promises me that can't be found in the gospel?" In other words, preaching the gospel to ourselves each day helps us live Christianly in the world that over promises and never delivers. 3. CREATE AND MAINTAIN ACCOUNTABILITY Everyone needs accountability. You need it and I need it. I don't mean a facade of accountability. I've lived there. Find one or two others whose faith you admire and make a commitment to be accountable with each other. ...confess your sins to one another and pray for one another... James 5:16 This means scheduling a routine to get together, ask real, pointed questions. It doesn't mean going weeks and weeks without checking in, and when you do meet, avoiding the real questions or getting real with each other, and letting each other off the hook. 4. STAY AWAY FROM TEMPTATION At best, King David committed adultery, at worst, he committed rape. Then he went on to have the woman's husband killed. And things only went from bad to worse. That whole scenario started with David bored and strolling on the roof of his palace when he was supposed to be leading his army in battle.  Someone from the recovery community told me that when a drug addict relapses it's not because they made a bad decision at the moment, it's because they made bad decisions weeks and months earlier in their minds. Then they white-knuckled it for a bit, and then when the moment opportunity presented itself it was all over. We need to make a concerted effort to stay away from temptation. Solomon writes about the unwise young man who strolls by the prostitute's corner at twilight, referring to him as an ox going to the slaughter (Proverbs 7). You typically know where temptation lies. Stay away from it! 5. RUN FROM TEMPTATION While we typically know where temptation lies, sometimes temptation catches us by surprise. Joseph (the Joseph and the]]> Christianity that is simply against all the things that the world thinks are fun is not attractive and compelling. But to draw that conclusion is to miss the point. Christianity is for something. Something so grand, so compelling, that if it was a treasure found in a field it would be worth it to sell off everything else to buy that field in order to possess the treasure of treasures. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=41 Wed, 27 Jun 2018 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/41/Cannabis-And-The-Christian When I was a teenager I had a t-shirt that said: 'Wanna get high? Take a hit of this!' and it had a picture of the Bible on it. It's embarrassing now but a little self-deprecation never hurt anybody so I share that little tidbit with you.   Like that t-shirt, there is a sense in which this post will be received that paints Christians in a...how shall we say it...lame light. Like we're just squares, prudes, and killjoys. And I get that. Christianity that is simply against all the things that the world thinks are fun is not attractive and compelling. But to draw that conclusion is to miss the point. Christianity is for something. Something so grand, so compelling, that if it was a treasure found in a field it would be worth it to sell off everything else to buy that field in order to possess the treasure of treasures. That treasure is the gospel, by the way. The greatest exchange imaginable. Jesus traded His righteousness for our unrighteousness and then paid the penalty for our sin on the cross. He got killed so we could get life. Abundant life. Eternal life. And He did it because He loves us. Any talk of changing our lifestyles only makes sense in light of a genuine life-transforming encounter with the living God.  Let's talk about weed When the Bible doesn't speak directly to a specific issue people like to plead ignorance. "Well, the Bible doesn't say anything about pot so it's ok." Two things in response to that: 1. where the Bible doesn't speak specifically, it speaks broadly and in a way that gives us the tools to discern specifically. 2. the Bible does speak directly about being impaired by mind-altering substances.  "Any talk of changing our lifestyles only makes sense in light of a genuine life-transforming encounter with the living God."  So let's talk about weed. Legislation has been passed in Canada that sets the table for the legalization of marijuana. So now that it's legal the natural question is, can Christians smoke weed? Or put another way, is it wrong for Christians to smoke weed? To answer that question we need to break it into two categories: medicinally and recreationally. Let's start with the latter: Recreational use While alcohol and marijuana are different substances with different effects (one gets you drunk, the other gets you stoned), the Bible speaks directly about alcohol and the categories are similar. Because it usually takes multiple drinks to get drunk (differs depending on the individual and the alcohol), there is some Christian freedom in regards to alcohol. While some individuals choose to enjoy a drink or two, others stay clear of alcohol all together either because of a proclivity towards abusing it, alcoholism in their history or family history, or simply because they don’t want to mess with something that could go sideways for them or others. But whatever the varied practice is regarding alcohol, all can agree that the Scriptures are clear that we should not get drunk (Luke 21:34; Romans 13:13; Galatians 5:21; Ephesians 5:18; et al) In 1 Peter 4, the Apostle writes, For the time that is past suffices for doing what [unbelivers] want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry... The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers (4, 7). "whatever the varied practice is regarding alcohol, all can agree that the Scriptures are clear that we should not get drunk" I think pot falls in the category of drunkenness but with instant effects, as opposed to a drink or two being permissible. You know what I mean? In many cases, one toke can have a significant effect and, therefore, to smoke weed at all alters the sober-mindedness that we are called to. Replace wine with weed in Proverbs 23:29-35 and I think it captures it accurately: "Who has redness of eyes? Those who tarry long over wine; those who go to try mixed wine. Do not look at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup and goes down smoothly. In the end it bites like a serpent and stings like an adder. Your eyes will see strange things, and your heart utter perverse things. You will be like one who lies down in the midst of the sea, like one who lies on the top of a mast. “They struck me,” you will say, “but I was not hurt; they beat me, but I did not feel it. When shall I awake? I must have another drink.”  It's quite possible that someone tried to lie on top of a mast after smoking weed. Hopefully, they didn't try to lie down in the midst of the sea cause that wouldn't have gone well.   Medicinal use In my mind, medicinal marijuana is a separate issue. I’m sure there are differing views on this. Mine is that for the dying cancer patient or the individual with a brain injury and other similar circumstances, a mild dose of marijuana provides relief in some of these cases, as other prescription drugs do. In this regard, it performs a medicinal function. And because it's a plant, because it's natural, there are circumstances when it is a better option than some harsher chemicals that get pumped into patient's bodies that we don't think twice about. When my son Walker broke his leg they sedated him and told us that he would be pretty loopy when he woke up... which was 100% the case. It had an inebriating or stoning effect on him for a little while. In the context of medical treatment, there are a number of drugs that have mind-altering effects. I'm a pastor. Not a doctor. My first two initials are MD but that's as close as I get. My point here is to differentiate between recreational and medicinal purposes. And I think that differentiation can be made. I don't think a hard and fast law opposing marijuana in the church is nuanced enough. It also goes without saying that, like many prescription drugs, it can be abused. "A differentiation should be made between recreational and medicinal uses." The lion's share of those reading this will be thinking along the lines of recreational use and that's what I'm primarily speaking to in this article. Sober-minded Christ-exalters Throughout the New Testament Christians are exhorted to be sober-minded. Because God is the fun police? No. So we are ready and watchful and living as witnesses for Christ in the world.  The Apostle Paul wrote, do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). That'd make a great t-shirt slogan... Nevermind. The Christian life involves forsaking one lifestyle to embrace another. It's a call to awakening not numbing. To enlivened senses not altered senses. To vibrancy, not escapism. The reality of Jesus, not reality-distorting substances.  The pothead sits on a couch, zoned out, eating a bag of Doritos to satisfy the munchies. And while that's an exaggeration of reality in many instances, that picture doesn't align with our citizenship and participation in]]> Not only are large portions of the Old Testament difficult to understand historically and theologically, how to interpret the Old Testament in light of the New makes many passages doubly difficult to understand theologically. We're not under the law, but under grace, right? Yes and amen! But then Jesus comes along and says things like, "I haven't come to abolish the law but to fulfill it". What is the place of the law in the Christian life? https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=42 Thu, 21 Jun 2018 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/42/How-To-Read-And-Apply-The-10-Commandments Not only are large portions of the Old Testament difficult to understand historically and theologically, how to interpret the Old Testament in light of the New makes many passages doubly difficult to understand theologically. We're not under the law, but under grace, right? Yes and amen! But then Jesus comes along and says things like, “I haven’t come to abolish the law but to fulfill it”. What is the place of the law in the Christian life? Our law-keeping cannot save us, only Jesus can. But those who are saved by Jesus joyfully respond with obedience to the law. But to all the laws of the Old Testament or only some? Is it selective and inconsistent of us to obey some and neglect others? How do we as Christians approach the Law (the Ten Commandments being the summary of the Torah/Law)? One of the reasons we are working through a sermon series on the 10 Commandments is so that we can engage these questions and rightly handle the Word of Truth (2 Timothy 2:15), namely how the New Testament informs the Old, how the New Covenant fulfills the Old. Hermeneutics are methods of interpretation and the following are what I hope will be helpful rules for interpreting Old Testament Law. Consider this your 10 Commandments primer: THE 3 TYPES OF THE LAW While these aren't perfect categories (where does the Sabbath neatly fall for example) and are a bit of an oversimplification, they can be helpful.  1. The Moral Law The first five books of the Bible are called the Torah, which means Law. The Torah was given by God to Moses at Mount Sinai. And the moral law is summarized in the 10 Commandments. It's the righteous and eternal standard for our relationship with God and with others. These are laws with ethical categories. 2. The Civil Law These are the laws that governed Israel as a nation. Laws pertaining to guidelines for war, restrictions around land use, debt and loan regulations, and penalties for violations against Israel's legal code. These are laws with social categories. 3. The Ceremonial Law Things like regulations for worship in the sanctuary, for religious festivals, and the sacrificial system fall under this third type of the law. From clean and unclean foods to instructions for ritual purity, the guidelines for the conduct of priests, to detailed instructions for offering sacrifices. And I mean detailed. Check out the Book of Leviticus. These are laws with religious categories. The Ceremonial Law is no longer in effect because all of its regulations pointed forward to Jesus (Colossians 2:16-17). Now that Jesus has offered Himself as the once-for-all atoning sacrifice for our sins, no more sacrifices are needed. In fact, to continue to follow the old ceremonies would actually be to deny the sufficiency of the cross of Christ. There are two ceremonies in effect in the church: the ordinances of baptism & the Lord’s Supper. They are both cross-related. The Civil Law is no longer in effect but for different reasons. The Church is not a State. We have a King and His name is Jesus — but His Kingdom is spiritual — and His commission to His disciples is trans-national. The Ceremonial Law and Civil Law were types and figures pointing forward to the cross and Kingdom of Jesus. But what the New Testament does not do is declare an end to God’s Moral Law as the standard for our lives. While the Moral Law also finds it's fulfillment in Christ, these moral commands continue to find their expression through the Spirit-empowered lives of followers of Jesus (Jeremiah 31:31-33). THE 3 USES OF THE LAW 1. Map The Law as a map that guides our conduct. It is useful for instructing us in righteousness. It helps us know what is pleasing to God and shows us how to live. 2. Muzzle The Law as a muzzle that restrains evil. The commandments, with their accusation of guilt and threat of punishment, discourage people from sinning against God. This use of the law is as a deterrent that has the preventative purpose of keeping God's people away from sin. Like a parent who says, "Don't touch the element on the stove, you'll get burned!". 3. Mirror The Law as a mirror that shows us our sin. The Ten Commandments expose our sinful motives and behaviours for what they are: the transgression of specific commands. This is how the law helps us: not by saving us but by driving us to the Saviour. Like a mirror that shows us that our face is dirty, which drives us to cleansing water. EACH COMMANDMENT DOES 4 THINGS AT ONCE 1. Revelation Insight into the character of God. 2. Confrontation Insight into our own character. 3. Instruction  Charts a new path to walk, by God’s grace. 4. Promise  Because of the new covenant, God promises to write His law on our hearts. Every one of the 10 Commandments (which stand as a summary of God's moral law) gives us insight into the character of God, an accurate indictment on our own character, the way forward made by the gospel, and gospel hope. RULES FOR INTERPRETING THE LAW The Biblical Rule Every commandment must be understood in the context of the entire Bible. In the context of the 10 Commandments, all the prophets and apostles accepted the abiding authority of God’s moral law. The Inside/Outside Rule The Ten Commandments are internal as well as external meaning they demand inward integrity as well as outward conformity. They deal with our souls as well as our bodies. For example, what the 7th commandment forbids is not just inappropriate sexual activity, but sinful sexual desires (Matthew 5:28). The Two-sided Rule  Every commandment is both positive and negative. This helps us see that where a sin is forbidden, the corresponding duty is required. And where a duty is required, the corresponding sin is forbidden. Most of the commandments are a list of don’ts: don’t make other gods, don’t steal, don’t lie. The Two-sided Rule helps us see that there is a flip to every command. Each one condemns a particular vice and commends a particular virtue. The true intent of each commandment is to tell us what to do as well as what not to do. For example, the command not to murder simultaneously requires the preservation of life. The command not to steal also demands that we give generously to people in need.  The Rule of Categories Each commandment stands for a whole category of sins. It not only governs the specific sin it mentions but all the sins that lead up to it, and all the supposedly lesser sins of the same kind. For example, You shall not murder: Jesus explained that it also condemns hatred. In addition to outright murder, the 6th Commandment forbids any form of physical violence, domestic violen]]> "I feel safe". That was the response from a 10-year girl who had just experienced her parents split up and her dad move out of the house. She said these words at the end of a pastoral counseling session involving her dad and her little sister. It was not that the situation at hand (her parents' separation) had caused her to feel this peaceful feeling, it was what she heard as a result of our session that allowed her to breathe again after such a stressful and confusing few weeks. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=43 Tue, 15 May 2018 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/43/Children-Need-The-Right-Story “I feel safe”. That was the response from a 10-year girl who had just experienced her parents split up and her dad move out of the house. She said these words at the end of a pastoral counseling session involving her dad and her little sister. It was not that the situation at hand (her parents' separation) had caused her to feel this peaceful feeling, it was what she heard as a result of our session that allowed her to breathe again after such a stressful and confusing few weeks. I am not a professional counselor. I am not a physiologist or a medical doctor. I am a pastor. I can not offer kids or anyone else any physiological or medical advice. What I can offer is care, a listening ear, God’s truth and prayer. Most of all, what I can offer is the right story. And this is the most urgent need for children today. Sadly, in our increasingly secular world, it is what so many children are not getting. "The right story is what children most urgently need...but what so many children are not getting." For many children today, the story that they hear about themselves and the world they inhabit is the Darwinian Naturalist kind, that they are simply a cosmic accident and the greatest thing they can hope for is to find some kind of personal fulfillment and happiness. The best they can hope for is to entertain themselves and escape from the reality of death and bad things. To be sure, they get a healthy dose of Christian morality mixed in with this storyline. Messages like “be good”, “share”, “respect others”, “be kind” are remnants from our Christian past. But the overarching storyline still says, “do what makes you happy cause life will end”, “be your best self cause you are an evolved human” and “survive the chaos”. At the end of the day, children in secular Canada today are taught Christian morality in the context of a Darwinian storyline of meaninglessness, chaos, and purposelessness. So when a child, like the 10-year-old girl in my office, experiences a chaotic and seemingly purposeless event, she has no resources to make sense of it. It is only a horrible mess that has left her wanting to defy the system altogether. When her father brought her into my office, his previously sweet, very morally upright daughter, had been “acting out” and fallen into some bad behaviour. If I was a physiologist, I could give her some coping strategies and help walk her through the stages of grief. If I was a medical doctor, I could offer her medication or encourage healthy living. Those may still be good and worthy helps for her. But what this girl really needed to hear was the right story. The Gospel story. Only the Gospel could help her make sense of her chaos and save her from a hopeless storyline. That day in my office we met and talked and coloured and listened to each other. But then we read the Gospel story from a resource designed for kids. We read about God the creator, Adam and Eve, the fall into sin, the promise of a Savior, the hero Jesus, the victory of the cross over sin and death, the present kingdom and the kingdom yet to come. We talked about how this story is true and it is God’s story and ours at the same time. After we had finished, I asked how her and her sister felt. It was then that this sweet, 10-year-old girl said, “I feel safe”. What a response! Safe? After reading about so much evil and sin and destruction? Safe? After simply reading a story? Safe? Why safe? The answer is that the Gospel gave this young girl context for all the devastation in her world. The Gospel dealt head-on with the difficult realities of the world and showed her that God is still in control and still has a plan. The Gospel gave her a taste of the hope that Jesus offers her through his cross, grave, throne and imminent return. This story, this old story, the story of Jesus is what her young heart needed and what she had never heard before. The real tragedy is that her heart had been robbed of hearing this good news until that moment. "The Gospel dealt head-on with the difficult realities of the world and showed her that God is still in control and still has a plan. The Gospel gave her a taste of the hope that Jesus offers her through his cross, grave, throne and imminent return." Sadly, this is true of many other children in my country of Canada. There are two ways that kids today get robbed of this good news in my context. First, an increasing number of kids in Canada are growing up today with little to no Christian influence. Many do not attend church and are completely illiterate as to the message of the Bible. These kids are truly growing up in a post-Christian world and they are being robbed of the opportunity to hear the Gospel. They are being left with a story vacuum and they will one day fill that vacuum with the gods of death, the gods of sex, the gods of comfort, the gods of personal fulfillment or the gods of self-realization. These gods will offer them peace, joy, and happiness, but because they are false, they will ultimately leave them empty, unsatisfied and not reconciled to God. But there is a second way we rob kids of the Gospel, and it is even sadder. It is when kids are robbed of the Gospel even though they have Christian parents and attend church. Many religiously engaged kids are still unengaged in the Gospel story at all. What they receive on a regular basis is merely scattered Bible verses, moral instructions or worst of all, a distorted Gospel that sounds more like self-help than good news. Many in the previous Millennial generation were not told a robust Gospel message but a moralistic and therapeutic message with a little Bible and Jesus sprinkled-in. We gave them rules and principles for life from the Bible and Christian platitudes, but not a good news message that could sustain them during dark times or answer their deepest questions. Sadly, even in my early days as a Children’s pastor, I too often fell into a pattern of giving good biblical advice and commands rather than telling them the story of the Bible that leads to Jesus. But if we truly want to see the next generation transformed, it will only happen through telling them the right story. The Gospel story. Only God’s story of salvation through Jesus can offer hope through the brokenness and chaos. ]]> If you have doubts, you're not alone. You're in good company and among friends. What do we do when we have doubts? Here are some practical helps if you are dealing with doubts. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=44 Fri, 13 Apr 2018 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/44/Dealing-With-Doubt If you have doubts, you're not alone. You're in good company and among friends. What do we do when we have doubts? Here are some practical helps if you are dealing with doubts. Read the Gospel of John We have given many Sundays to preaching this gospel. John writes that he wrote it "so that you may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God and that by believing you may have life in his name" (John 20:31). Sometimes we talk "open-handed" and "closed-handed" issues to differentiate between essential beliefs and secondary issues. It's helpful to categorize these and not let our faith be shipwrecked over non-essentials. The most important thing we will ever do or not do in our lives has everything to do with what we do with Jesus (that was a lot of do). Surrendering our lives to Christ in belief and service doesn't mean we won't have doubts but it frames our doubts in the context of our relationship with Him.  Study the lives of fellow doubters Study the lives of Abraham and Sarah (Genesis 17-18), Moses (Exodus 3-6), Gideon (Judges 6), David (Psalm 13), Zechariah (Luke 1), the disciples after the resurrection (Luke 24; John 20), and recognize that biblical giants of the faith had their share of doubts as well. Don't neglect to see how God met them in their doubts, grew their faith, and kept His promises. Their God is your God and He does not change. Share your doubts  Share your doubts with someone (or a small group of people) that you can trust and who is a mature follower of Jesus. It takes courage to share the cracks in your faith with others. But again, you're not alone. Others will actually be refreshed by your transparency. Being a Christian and being a part of a church family are synonymous in Scripture. One of the reasons is so that brothers and sisters in Christ can encourage us and help us through our difficulties.  Read Yes, to be a Christian requires faith. But not ignorant faith. I maintain that there are really good answers to really difficult questions. Read Making Sense of God and/or The Reason for God by Timothy Keller or Mark Clark's The Problem of God. You will find yourself in good hands reading nearly anything C.S. Lewis wrote, especially Mere Christianity.  If your doubts are about something specific, contact one of your pastors. They can steer you in the right direction to read well on that doubt and tackle it head-on. Again, you're not the only one who has big questions about big issues and there is an infinite library of wisdom from other saints (past and present) who have written down what they have discovered as they asked the same questions you are asking. Bring your doubts to Jesus Seek to bring your doubts to Jesus day by day. Posture yourself towards Jesus rather than opposed to Jesus and towards your doubts. This is huge. The dad of a sick child confessed, "I believe; help my unbelief!" (Mark 9:24). Did he have doubts that Jesus could heal his son, you bet. But did he bring it to Jesus rather than walk away with unbelieving cynicism? Yes. You have reason for hope Trials of many kinds, including your doubts, can lead to a faith that's deeper because of it. The Apostle Paul reminds us that "we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope" (Romans 5:3-4). Pray for mercy Pray for God to be merciful to you in your season of doubt. Whether we are suffering or sinning in our doubts and unbelief, Jesus is gracious to sort that out with us in love. Jesus tells a story about a tax collector who was a religious outsider cried out in prayer, "God, be merciful to me, a sinner!" (Luke 18:13). He knew his life was messy but he pleaded for the mercy of God. Jesus concludes the story by saying that he went home justified. "Doubting Thomas" claimed he would never believe unless he put his finger in the nail marks in the hands of Jesus and put his hand into the spear-pierced side of Jesus (John 20:25). But Jesus mercifully met Thomas there and alleviated the doubt that stood between him and belief. I write this post as I prepare to preach on doubt. And as I have been preparing, I have been praying for you. So I want to leave you with this prayer written by Scotty Smith based on Acts 12: A Prayer asking God to override our unbelief      ”He [Peter] went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying. Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer the door. When she recognized Peter’s voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, “Peter is at the door!” “You’re out of your mind,” they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, “It must be his angel.” But Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. Acts 12:12-16 Heavenly Father, thank you for chronicling the events of this comical, and all-too-common, prayer meeting. As much as it exposes our unbelief, in a far greater way it highlights your faithful commitment to do exceedingly beyond all we can ask or imagine. This story describes the kind of praying I’m way too familiar with. I dutifully pray, but I faithlessly doubt. Forgive my unbelief; override my unbelief; let me behold the salvation of the Lord. There are many things I’m praying about right now for which I want to hear “Peter knocking at the door.” I have no need to be considered a great prayer warrior. I’m not looking for wonderful stories to tell others as a testimony to my faith. I simply want you to bring a whole lot of glory to Jesus. Astonish us, Father; astonish me with your mercy and might. Father, I pray for marriages barely holding on and the ones needing a full-bore resurrection; for self-absorbed men who need a redemptive kick in their hindquarters; for spoiled children who need to learn gratitude and how to work; for elders who would rather win votes than win the lost; for pastors who keep defaulting from gospel preaching to law preaching; for my own heart—for greater freedom, joy and spontaneity in putting others first. Father, I also pray for those in the persecuted church and for their leaders. Strengthen them, encourage them, and grant miracles of provision and deliverance. Cause the gospel to spread like wildfire. Give them so much joy, peace, and love that the]]> The Lenten season is a time of preparation. It is a time to especially contemplate the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus in the time leading up to Good Friday and concluding with the celebration of Easter Sunday. We are busy. And before we know it it will be Easter Sunday. We may find ourselves declaring, He Is Risen Indeed! at church that morning without having pondered the depths of God's sacrificial love for us much at all in the days leading up to it. Lent safeguards against that. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=45 Mon, 19 Feb 2018 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/45/LENT-What-Why-How LENT The Lenten season is a time of preparation. It is a time to especially contemplate the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus in the time leading up to Good Friday and concluding with the celebration of Easter Sunday. We are busy. And before we know it it will be Easter Sunday. We may find ourselves declaring, He Is Risen Indeed! at church that morning without having pondered the depths of God's sacrificial love for us much at all in the days leading up to it. Lent safeguards against that. Lent is a season to empty ourselves of lesser things that occupy the space of our day to day lives in order to be filled with the greater things of the Gospel. The 40 day period (beginning on Ash Wednesday, February 10th) is a time to follow Jesus into the wilderness and identify with His sufferings in a very small way through fasting. By fasting, we are intentionally bringing a level of discomfort, inconvenience, and self-denial to coincide with a time of focusing on the depths that God went to secure our Salvation through the atoning sacrifice of His Son Jesus. LENT GUIDE The Lent Guide has seven weekly readings to correspond with the seven weeks of Lent (Week One: Feb 7-13). The guide offers a weekly reading along with four supplementary Scriptures passages to consider throughout the week in addition to a weekly fast recommendation (more on that below).  The guide is not cumbersome but simply prompts us to be intentional. The content of it will take mere minutes each week, while offering you the opportunity to devote more time to it if you choose. Every weekly section also includes space for journaling, prayers, and what God is teaching you throughout the Lenten season. WEEKLY FAST SCHEDULE Week 1: Food Week 2: Television and Movies Week 3: Social Networking and Internet  Week 4: Caffeine and Sweets Week 5: Radio and Music Week 6: Shopping for Non-Essentials  Week 7: Sleep Week 1 involves a fast from food. You may choose to fast from one meal a day; others will do an entire day; others still might choose a fast of multiple days. Week 7 involves a fast from sleep. You are neither expected nor encouraged to abstain from sleep for the entire week. However, the hope is that we might set our alarms an hour or two earlier, stay up an hour or two later and devote one entire night or morning to prayer. (excerpt from the Lent Guide) Originally a preparation period for those desiring to be baptized, Lent eventually became embedded into Christian tradition as a season for the Church to symbolically follow Christ into the wilderness. It is a time for fasting and self-denial, though not for denial itself. It is a period to empty ourselves of lesser things so that we might be filled with the greater things of the gospel. — Geoff Ashley ]]> Twice I've had the honour of having little babies at Christmas time. Those were special days that I cherish in memory, as it gave me a sweeter understanding of Mary's plight. I also remember savouring deeply each coo and smirk my soft little babies made as I contemplated the absurdity of a baby God. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=46 Mon, 18 Dec 2017 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/46/Prophet-Priest-King-Baby Twice I’ve had the honour of having little babies at Christmas time. Those were special days that I cherish in memory, as it gave me a sweeter understanding of Mary’s plight. I also remember savouring deeply each coo and smirk my soft little babies made as I contemplated the absurdity of a baby God. A long-awaited Prophet, Priest, and King in the form of a delicate and defenseless babe. God would have to be sovereign to do it that way. He’d have to be intricately involved in every detail of every nuance of this story for it to go well. Because a teenage mother whose unplanned pregnancy made her the scourge of her community isn’t exactly the best case scenario for the flourishing of a saviour. Not many of us would choose that path or write that cosmic story. At the same time, the plan is brilliant. Isn’t it? The weakness of that King revealed God’s upside down Kingdom. It not being one made up of heavy-hitters or high achievers. The lowly, defenseless and diseased would be what this Kingdom consists of. It’s perfect. His little helpless presence is a picture into the wisdom and stature of his Father. The Son of God putting on flesh and becoming what He created in order to show perfect mercy. Not just mercy. But perfect mercy. Because only a good Prophet proclaims truth in love, humbly calling the sinner out of the dark and into the light. A good priest mediates for the people with deep understanding of their turmoil within. A good King will lead others by personal sacrifices, not afraid to get in the dirt for the sake of others. When Christ was born in a manger, it was the beginning of a perfect, blameless and yet acutely challenging life. He’s not a Prophet, Priest or King who doesn’t know and understand our mortal pains and sufferings. He knows them intimately. He’s the best kind of Saviour. The only kind that makes any sense. The absurdity of it all remains…but for different reasons now. I no longer wonder why it happened this way. Now I’m gripped that He would do it at all. I’m stirred with gratitude for the sacrifice. It’s shocking, not because it’s a strange story, but because our King has come and He’s come for us. For the sick, sad sinner. For me. Christmas comes each year beaming good hope. And not just a good hope for the well, affluent and cheerful. It’s for us. For the ones hurting, lonely and sick with sin. It’s not about perfectly posed smiling faces sitting on Santa’s knee or precisely planned activities. As lovely as all that is. When we pull away all the happy wrapping, Christmas is a day of remembrance. Remembering a cold night in a barn. A night with very little fan-fair and a great deal of looming war. But this is exactly why we sing. We sing rhythms of remembrance and we ought to sing them with joy over that great hope. I believe Mary’s song is the best Christmas song of them all. She perfectly express's all the richness of God's upside down kingdom in the revelation of Christ's coming. So lets read and remember that an immaculate Prophet, Priest and King came down to us as a baby that first Christmas so long ago. “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name. And his mercy is for those who fear him from generation to generation. He has shown strength with his arm; he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts; he has brought down the mighty from their thrones and exalted those of humble estate; he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, in remembrance of his mercy, as he spoke to our fathers, to Abraham and to his offspring forever.”   Luke 1:46-55 Merry Christmas! ]]> Advent comes from the Latin word: Adventus, meaning "the coming" or "the arrival". It is a season of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the incarnation, the nativity...Christmas. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=47 Mon, 04 Dec 2017 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/47/Whats-The-Purpose-Of-Advent Advent comes from the Latin word: Adventus, meaning “the coming” or “the arrival”. It is a season of expectant waiting and preparation for the celebration of the incarnation, the nativity...Christmas. By the 4th Century AD, the Advent season was kept as a period of fasting. We often think of Lent as the season of fasting (before Easter) but the early church also kept an Advent fast just as diligently. Two forty day periods of fasting in a year... someone should start The Christian Calendar Diet. Might be on to something. Ultimately, Advent is about anticipation. It is the time when Christians look back at the first coming of Jesus and look forward to His second coming. The four weeks leading up to Christmas are a focused and swelling anticipation of Jesus’ first arrival from an enthroned member of the Trinity in the heights of heaven to a dirty barn in a stone feeding trough. And in turn, it should also be a season that fuels our longing and expectancy for His second arrival. Why do we provide Advent Guides and emphasize the Four Sundays of Advent at Central? Simply because we see the benefit of Advent in helping busy, distracted people like us, in a hectic and sometimes frantic time of year, prepare Him room. Advent is often seen as a mere countdown to Christmas (or is skipped entirely). Christmas decorating isn’t so much about beginning a season of Advent, it's a long drawn out celebration of Christmas.  Christmas is a season of triumph and joy, Emmanuel, God with us (Matt 1:23) when the Word became flesh and dwelt among us (John 1:14).  Advent, on the other hand, is the experience of waiting for the Christ (and waiting together as believers for the second coming of Jesus). It's the fast that makes the feast taste even better. The beauty of Advent, that I am discovering, is the waiting period—the longing—the recognition that things aren’t the way they are supposed to be here (war, oppression, poverty, hunger, etc.), that wrongs need to be made right, that things need to be made new. So we reflect at this time, at all of the injustice in the world and say with John the Apostle, “Come Lord Jesus, come”. As Pastor Tyson and I craft our Advent services we are discovering that there are two distinct halves in Advent. The first is a more reflective and even somber time of repentance. We are sinners. Jesus had to come. We are a desperate people. The second sets our sights on the redemption that is found in Jesus, that sins can be forgiven in Christ, and therefore, our sense of celebratory praise grows as Christmas approaches.  "Advent renews in the people of God a longing for Christ’s return." When Christmas arrives it is pure celebration of the fact that Christ has come and the knowledge that He is coming again. And knowing my own heart, my celebration will be far more rich for walking through the season of Advent and acknowledging afresh that I desperately need Him to come. If Jesus had not come, we could not be saved. Praise God for the incarnation! Praise Jesus for coming to save! Lets make the most of this Advent season, to "let every heart prepare Him room".  ]]> Here is something I'm acutely aware of as a pastor, many people in the church I pastor are wondering how to navigate the issues of our time, asking, "help me think about this" or even "tell me what to think about this". In this article, I will suggest some general principles to keep in mind regarding any and every contentious issue. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=48 Thu, 23 Nov 2017 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/48/Polarizing-Issues-And-The-Departure-Of-Nuance I have a Twitter account that I post to on occasion. A goofy picture of my boys, the occasional inspirational quote or a repost of something going on at Central, the church I pastor. I’m an oddity I suppose. In my thirties and no Facebook, Instagram, or Snapchat account. It’s a minor miracle that I still have friends and actually converse with anybody without them. I’m not here to rag on social media. It’s incredible how it can connect people. The reality is it is also radically dividing people who are sharing their opinions on matters en masse. Our technological age is putting the voices of the masses out in the open for all to see and that can bring positive change. It’s also partially responsible for the departure of nuance in dialogue today, making nearly all issues polarizing ones. Panels on “the news” get a share of the blame here too, right?  Here is something I’m acutely aware of as a pastor, many people in the church I pastor are wondering how to navigate the issues of our time, asking, “help me think about this” or even “tell me what to think about this”. In this article, I will suggest some general principles to keep in mind regarding any and every contentious issue.  Jesus is the Word who became flesh and dwelt among us, full of grace and truth (John 1:14). When you read the gospels you discover a trend in the ministry of Jesus. When speaking to the religious, you could say that Jesus led with Truth. When speaking with “sinners” such as prostitutes, tax collectors, and the sick, you could say that Jesus led with grace. To the insider, Jesus was clear and straight up and yet full of truth and grace. To the outsider, Jesus was compelling and gracious and yet ultimately full of grace and truth. People would have radical encounters with Jesus and as the last word, it seemed, Jesus would say, “now go and sin no more” (John 5:14; 8:11; et al.). In the court of public opinion, conservative Christians lead with their truth without any semblance of grace to be found. Take the new SOGI curriculum as a hot-button example. Many conservative Christians are messaging that they reject it wholesale. What that says to the broader society is that we don’t care about the safety of marginalized children. We are becoming known for standing in opposition to something that is actually the opposite of what Christianity has always stood for: care for the widow, orphan, sojourner, and marginalized. Where Christians are called to be the best neighbours we are coming off as the worst neighbours and that should give us pause. Here are 3 general principles I would encourage you to keep in mind regarding any and every contentious public issue: INFORMED: If you are going to speak to an issue publicly, educate yourself on the issue as thoroughly as you can before you say a word. This includes your social media posts or the reposting of other’s statements on issues you haven’t familiarized yourself with. Are you opposed to every lesson plan within the SOGI curriculum resources? One lesson plan for K-12’s is to teach, Why “That’s so Gay” is not okay. Are you actually opposed to education combating hurtful speech like that? I should hope not! When it comes to gender dysphoria the issue itself is not black and white. It requires incredible wisdom and each scenario should be approached as the unique case that it is. I am not advocating for the curriculum or a one-size-fits-all action plan on gender dysphoria, I’m making a comment about our public discourse and lack of nuance. What is it exactly that you are opposing? Do you know? If not, please sit down and close your mouth. Blanket and/or uninformed statements can really hurt people and damage our Christian witness.   GRACE-FILLED: Lead with grace in the public square. Truth without grace is fundamentalism in the worst sense of the word and there is nothing compelling and beautiful about it. It seems that while Jesus led with grace towards the sinner and truth towards the religious (an oversimplification I realize), we have flipped the two: Hard line truth towards the culture and a pleasant graciousness towards one another. The Apostle Paul says, “Conduct yourselves wisely toward outsiders, making the best use of the time. Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person” (Colossians 4:5-6). Paul is making a case for attractive, compelling testimony to unbelievers here. Much like Jesus calling us to be the salt of the earth (Matthew 5:13), the words in their context refer to wise communication that commends the gospel to people. Again, I’m not talking about the complex issues being “dialogued” about in the public square here — about acceptance or rejection of them — I’m talking about posture, approach, and ultimately our witness (a good witness or a bad witness).    CONVICTION: Don’t capitulate to the culture either. You’re being told otherwise, but to be gracious and loving does not mean that we must abandon what we believe to be true. There is a lack of nuance in public dialogue on all fronts and while truth without grace is fundamentalism, grace without truth is mere sentimentality. I do not believe that what the Christian church has historically believed about particular issues must be renounced for the sake of love. There is a third way. A well-informed, thoughtfully engaged, humble participation in public discourse can go a long way. It seems we think otherwise, but we are not owed Christian values in the public sphere. Where they exist it is an enormous blessing and we believe that it leads to the greatest flourishing of all. While we are not owed Christian values in our society we are called to love God, love neighbour, and live in such a way that causes the watching world to say, “I want that”. And in this cultural moment, that appears lost in translation. Oh Lord, help us recover a prophetic voice and compelling witness. ]]> https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=49 Fri, 03 Nov 2017 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/49/Must-Reads--Curated-Content 3 THINGS EVERY CHRISTIAN SHOULD KNOW ABOUT THE REFORMATION Here are three things every Christian should know about the Reformation. THE REFORMATION: A VISUAL TIMELINE HOW NOT TO TEACH YOUR KIDS THE BIBLE "As a parent, I realized I’d failed to teach my kids the incredible story of redemption by allowing secondary moral lessons to usurp the primary message of Scripture." DOES THE REFORMATION STILL MATTER? "We study the Reformation because of what we can learn. We learn of the treasure of the gospel. We learn how easy it can be for the church to lose sight of its value. We learn of the origin of most of the practices of church life that we simply take for granted. We learn what doctrines should mat­ter most. We learn how to proclaim those doctrines in the world in which we live...Above all, we learn from them that our faith and trust lie...in the God-man, Jesus Christ." 8 SIGNS YOUR CHRISTIANITY IS TOO COMFORTABLE "Comfort-seeking is our default mode in a consumerist society, so we often find ourselves in “comfortable Christianity” without even knowing it. What are some indicators that our Christianity has become too cozy, more like a pleasant bottle of port than the uncomfortable, sharpening faith the New Testament envisions?  Here are eight signs that your Christianity might be too comfortable..." WHAT WAS THE REFORMATION ALL ABOUT? ]]> https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=50 Tue, 12 Sep 2017 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/50/Speak-A-True-Word Wake, feel your worth, O my soul Speak the word, the word that can save us all Awed by grace, I fall on my face And scream the word that can save us all.  -Thrice, Stand and Feel Your Worth “Y’know usually you come up with pretty good things to say but don’t do any more of that care bear **** alright?” That’s what he said to me the day I decided to say what needed to be said. I was a safety representative for my job in a modular manufacturing plant and in our pre-workday meetings I would often be called upon for a “safety moment”. The idea was that every day I would draw to attention something for our interior finishing department to keep an eye out for our own safety and those of our co-workers. To care for each other’s best interest. What I had noticed was that many of my co-worker’s first instinct early in the day was to interact in a cajoling, playfully insulting way, and that was how these men got along with each other. Some were more aggressive and abrasive than others but generally, this was how the day went. But I also knew that a young man in our department had just lost his father to cancer. When you work in close proximity to other groups and trades all day and everyone has a job to do sometimes things can get heated, so I decided to make a point of that as my safety moment for the day. I encouraged them to find out what kind of day their co-workers were having before assuming that there could be a no holds barred session of insult and criticism and in that way maybe reduce the amount of disagreements and arguments in the workplace. That was it. Just a little consideration in case you happen to meet someone on the worst day of their life, and the first and maybe only thing you do to them is to tear them down further. That wasn’t the only comment I received in response to my safety moment but the rest were much the same. That was the day I started to realize that it doesn’t matter what people will say or do, they need to know the truth. Words have so much more power than we think they do sometimes. The closer in relationship you are to someone the more power they hold. My wife, for example, knows everything she could say that would rend my heart and soul to pieces. But she also knows the things that can set me up on mountain tops of self-confidence and assurance. I used to say things like “The way guys know if they’re friends is if they can insult each other.”  But I don’t believe that anymore. I used to, but I no longer think that is the best way even for men to relate. For the last ten years the phrases “Speak the true word.” and “Speak glorious truths.” have often come to my mind and I’ve spent countless hours trying to consider what that looks like. Ephesians 4:29-32 says: 29 Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. 32 Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you. I believe our words change things. What we call down on others can be loosed in heaven. Our words can cause eternal activity, things that change the course of history, and I don’t want to waste time with anything that will damage for a day, much less till the end of days. To you, reader, I want you to be encouraged, built up, loved, assured, made whole, made new, and restored. If I have to correct or rebuke I want to speak the truth in love. I don’t want to divide. I will continue (if I have truly yet begun) to be the bleeding heart. The mocked one. To be turned aside and dismissed as caring too much, as I once accused others of doing. And I regret every moment I could have told someone that I loved them when they needed to hear it, to love someone enough to say something that might destroy our friendship but restore their soul! There are such times, may they be few for you. I remember what C.S. Lewis says about being a writer and a dreamer is that I may often imagine being a better person so vividly that I may convince others I am that person when I describe them and convince even myself. I don’t want to do that. But I think right now that I will be content to be reviled and cast out, all for standing out in the fringe, in the desert, calling out to any who would listen: “True joy is offered to you, and it is offered freely! I love you because God himself loves you so incorruptibly! Strike me if you must but accept His forgiveness! Hate me but love HIM! Trust that he is good! Know that he is true! Don’t look at me but look at the one who saves, who transforms, He takes away the sins of the world!” To put to death each day the desire to see the creation as precious in itself, and to consider every person, every desire, every good thing in a 10,000-year view; these are the desires of my heart. So that in the very moment that eternity hangs in the balance, I will speak the true word. Lord let it be so. ]]> A Gallup poll recently taken in Canada revealed that only 16% of Canadians are engaged in their work. Gallup defines engaged workers as those who "work with passion and feel a profound connection to their company and work. While 70% are not engaged and 14% are "actively disengaged", which is defined as employees that are so unhappy at work that they "undermine what their engaged co-workers accomplish". Those simply "disengaged" are said to be "sleepwalking through their workday, putting time - but not energy or passion - into their work https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=51 Wed, 16 Aug 2017 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/51/Good-Work A Gallup poll recently taken in Canada revealed that only 16% of Canadians are engaged in their work. Gallup defines engaged workers as those who “work with passion and feel a profound connection to their company and work. While 70% are not engaged and 14% are “actively disengaged”, which is defined as employees that are so unhappy at work that they “undermine what their engaged co-workers accomplish”. Those simply “disengaged” are said to be “sleepwalking through their workday, putting time — but not energy or passion — into their work. A Hays Canada Survey also done recently reports that 47% of Canadians are not happy with their jobs. What a picture of the Canadian work force! Half of Canadians are unhappy in their jobs and 84% are disengaged in their work. So here’s a question… How should Christians approach work? Christians are meant to be distinct, right? A counter-culture? Salt and light? What does that look like when it comes to our labour? What we’re after is a theology of Work. Here are 8 characteristics of the Christian perspective on work:  1. WE WERE CREATED FOR WORK Many of us are familiar with the Westminster Shorter Catechism’s answer to the question, “What is the chief end of man?” Which is, “To glorify God and enjoy Him forever.” And that’s a great answer. A glorious answer. But there is an earlier, more “down to earth” answer given in Genesis 1 and 2. “Let us make man in our image, and after our likeness. And let them have dominion.” (1:26) “The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it.” (2:15) Before the fall (Genesis 3), there is work. Meaning, from God’s perspective, we should not work to live but rather live to work. Our lives are meant to contribute to meaningful work. To do what our Creator did after He made the world. He stood back and admired it, saying, “that’s good. Really good.” You ever do that?  Work was part of paradise. Work is good. We were made for it. 2. WE ARE TASKED WITH CULTURE-MAKING “…God said…fill the earth and subdue it…” (1:28) Theologians call this verse, “The Cultural Mandate”. God is mandating that humans create culture. At first glance that seems like an over-reach. But it really isn’t. For humans to fill the earth is to create civilizations.  It wasn't like Adam and Eve were just to have a few children, live under a tree with big branches in the garden forever and do some light gardening. They were called to fill the earth and subdue it. To build cities and utilize the earth’s resources to create, ultimately, culture. The cultural mandate found in the opening verses of the Bible is one of the ways I want you to see that your work is meaningful to God and others. “I’m not doing the Lord’s work if I’m not a pastor or a missionary” is false! Where would humanity be without education, construction, business, medicine, raising children, farming, and government? Where would culture be without Apple Computers, Dyson vacuum cleaners, and really good coffee? I rest my case. Your work contributes to culture making and that honours God’s vision for your most basic human purpose. 3. WE ARE TASKED WITH RULING AND REIGNING “…fill the earth and subdue it and have dominion over [it]…” (1:28) The Bible makes a claim that Disney movies don’t. That all human beings — not just the special few and those of royal blood lines — are made in the image of God. We’re all kings and queens and the world is our kingdom.  The Hebrew word rule is radah and translates rule, reign, or have dominion. History shows us that there have been good rulers and bad rulers. Those who have contributed to human flourishing and those who haven’t. Those who are responsible for incredible acts of humanitarian good and those who are responsible for horrific atrocities.  We can contribute to human flourishing or to oppression and injustice. The natural question is, “How will you rule?” We should see ruling as stewardship of what God has entrusted to us. Work that contributes to the good of humanity and the earth. Tending soil and seed that produces food; rearranging sounds to make music; fabrics into fashions; raw materials turned into houses and hybrids; blobs of paint colours into stunning works of art; untrained students into capable graduates.  I’ve heard the question we can ask ourselves about ruling and reigning put this way: “Does what I’m doing make the world a more garden-like place?” Great question. 4. OUR WORK HERE AND NOW IS TRAINING FOR FUTURE REIGNING Simply put, our work in this world has an impact on the world to come. The New Heaven and New Earth (the age to come) will be a garden city (Revelation 22:1-4). God’s purpose for humanity started in a garden but was never meant to be limited there or stay that way. That’s why the age to come is a garden city.  N.T. Wright put it this way: “What you do in the present—by painting, preaching, singing, sewing, praying, teaching, building hospitals, digging wells, campaigning for justice, writing poems, caring for the needy, loving your neighbour as yourself—will last into God’s future… They are part of what we may call building for God’s kingdom.” Curse-free, exhilarating, satisfying work and responsibility await us. We need to recognize that the work we do here and now is important in the grand scheme of things. In Luke 19 Jesus tells a parable of a nobleman and three servants. He leaves them each a mina (a large sum of money). And upon His return he evaluates what they’ve done with them. Of course, the nobleman is Jesus, the servants are His disciples, and the minas are everything He's entrusted to them. Interestingly, upon His return, the nobleman says to the faithful servants who worked diligently in His absence, “Well done, good servant! Because you have been faithful in a very little, you shall have authority over ten/five cities.” Now, it’s a parable remember. So it doesn't necessarily mean that our faithfulness in our work now will translate into responsibility over cities in the life to come. But maybe it does. 5. ALL WORK MATTERS TO GOD In Colossians 3, Paul instructs bondservants to work heartily for God, not men. Think of the kind of work these first century slaves would have done. Menial tasks. Working in the fields, cleaning floors and dishes, without control over what they did and didn’t do every day. And Paul is telling them to work hard at the tasks because they matter (even when we think they matter very little). I mean, can you imagine if the janitor who cleans a public restroom didn't do their job? That would NOT lead to human flourishing! God isn’t swayed and moved and taken by what we typically deem as important work. Jesus came as a servant. Even (perhaps especially) the work of servants matters to God. You and what you do matter to God.  You and what you do matter to God.  6. JESUS IS YOUR BOSS “…work heartily, as for the Lord… You are serving the Lord Christ” (Colossians 3:23-24) When it comes to the work of your head and your hands, work for you]]> Wherever you are in your faith in Jesus, we want to help you grow mature in Christ. That's one of the key tasks of the church. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=52 Thu, 20 Jul 2017 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/52/Equipping-The-Saints Wherever you are in your faith in Jesus, we want to help you grow mature in Christ. That’s one of the key tasks of the church. The Apostle Paul wrote, “Him (that’s Jesus) we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ." Colossians 1:28 Elsewhere he instructs leaders in the church, “equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes." Ephesians 4:12-14 These passages all speak about teaching. The kind of teaching that trains followers of Jesus to become mature in faith.  Building into our present and future leaders at Central is going to be a major emphasis of ours this coming year. A couple of the ways that we’re approaching this is through our Leadership Lab and our Preaching Lab.  Our Leadership Labs will be happen monthly, eight months of the year, and are geared towards supplying leaders in the church with the ministry tools to lead well.  We see our Life Group leaders, worship leaders, youth leaders, men’s ministry & women’s ministry leaders, community care team, Sunday morning prayer team, and children’s large group leaders as core leaders in our church. By investing in our leaders well, our entire church will be well served.  We call it a "lab" because the first portion of the session will be information giving while the latter portion will be information implementing. Each evening will consist of a different theme such as: How To Study The Bible. The back half of the lab will get participants working through How To Lead A Bible Study in light of that. A session on Providing Gospel Care & Council will see participants applying that content in conversational scenarios in the latter part.  Other topics for the Leadership Lab we are planning for this coming year include: The Grand Narrative of the Bible; Developing and Multiplying Leaders; Evangelism; Answers to Common/Difficult Questions; Worldview Training; Discipling Those Younger in the Faith; and The Doctrine of the Church. Our Preaching Lab is designed to train and develop communicators of the gospel. It is geared towards those with gifts and interest in preaching and teaching.  The Apostle Paul says to Timothy, “You then, my child, be strengthened by the grace that is in Christ Jesus, and what you have heard from me in the presence of many witnesses entrust to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” 2 Timothy 2:1-2 And as we have already seen in the Great Commission, Jesus emphasizes that Christian teachers are to teach everything that Jesus instructed. With Central multiplying campuses, we seek to raise up preachers of the Word from within to fill out our preaching schedule. We also desire to see competent and confident preachers/teachers speaking in ministries like Women’s; Young Adults; Youth; and Children’s large group sessions. It’s our joy to invest in you as you invest in others so well. Our prayer is that you will feel loved and equipped in ministry this year. ]]> This weekend Christians will gather in church's across the globe and worship Jesus like we did last Sunday and like we will do the Sunday after that. Only this Sunday holds a special honour; Father's Day. It's a lovely, government mandated day set apart for the purpose of honoring the Father's in our lives. And it's a wonderful thing. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=53 Mon, 12 Jun 2017 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/53/A-Plea-To-Churches-On-Fathers-Day This weekend Christians will gather in church’s across the globe and worship Jesus like we did last Sunday and like we will do the Sunday after that. Only this Sunday holds a special honour; Father’s Day. It’s a lovely, government mandated day set apart for the purpose of honoring the Father’s in our lives. And it’s a wonderful thing. I mostly have the day planned for my husband and look forward to spoiling and celebrating him. But something I find most churches do on this particular day of the year is beef up the morning with “manly” fodder in order to appeal to the fathers in their midst. What I mean by this is many churches will bring motorcycles on stage or have a BBQ with steak and bacon cooking out back. And there tends to be more grunting from the stage…you know to speak the male language. It’s a classic case of the church pandering to the cultural view of manhood in an effort to stay relevant. In the world around us what makes a man a man is eating bacon, loving cars, watching football and making caveman sounds. However these stereotypes do not represent all the men in our congregations. And when these “manly” qualities become highlights to the sermon or service, it leaves out the many men among us who may be vegetarians and love reading, art and live-theater. Increasingly it is becoming more important for the church to be clear on what the Bible teaches on true femininity and masculinity. In a tirelessly gender-confused world, the church must be a shining light of clarity; defining them not by society-made norms. God’s Word never changes…but culture does. "In a tirelessly gender-confused world, the church must be a shining light of clarity" But even this is not my main point. All these attributes may describe your husband or father, but none of them are important qualities of Biblical manhood and fatherhood. So if these traits are not manhood qualifiers, what are? A good father loves, leads and serves his family (Ephesians 5:23). He leads by laying down his own life daily for the good of those around him. This makes him a self-sacrificing example to everyone in his family. So the big game will be laid aside by a good man when he is required by his wife and he will give up reading that book to tend to his children’s needs. I Godly man does not rage at the things he doesn’t get for himself, but gladly gives to others. "A good father loves, leads and serves his family (Ephesians 5:23)" Men of God are humble, kind and hungry for justice (Micah 6:8). They are providers and protectors and care-takers. But maybe most importantly, they love the Lord with such unfettered affection that they will speak about him to anyone who wants to hear. They are unashamed at the heart-strings attached to Christ. And they want nothing more than to pass it on to their children. Proverbs 4:10-15 says, Hear, my son, and accept my words, that the years of your life may be many. I have taught you the way of wisdom; I have led you in the paths of uprightness. When you walk, your step will not be hampered, and if you run, you will not stumble. Keep hold of instruction; do not let go; guard her, for she is your life. Do not enter the path of the wicked, and do not walk in the way of the evil. Avoid it; do not go on it; turn away from it and pass on. This is such a beautiful example of a father loving his children enough to pass on what is good and wise about life. And these are the things to encourage and celebrate this Sunday. So please, here is my plea…resist the impulse to indulge cultural “manly” norms, and honor what truly matters in a man. Loving Jesus above all else. ]]> What is the value of an education? I think if you were to quiz most parents, teachers, and politicians their answers would be quite predictable. Education is a top priority in our culture and rightly so. A good education is one of the great building blocks of any healthy society and parents instinctively want to give their children the very best education possible. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=54 Fri, 26 May 2017 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/54/Spiritual-Education What is the value of an education? I think if you were to quiz most parents, teachers, and politicians their answers would be quite predictable. Education is a top priority in our culture and rightly so. A good education is one of the great building blocks of any healthy society and parents instinctively want to give their children the very best education possible. Before our first child (Ben) was entering Kindergarten, my wife and I had lengthy discussions about his future schooling endeavours. In fact, these discussions began much earlier (around the time he was born) and continue to this day. Early on as we conversed with friends, family and acquittances about schooling, we discovered that it was a very hot-button topic. We knew friends who were considering relocating to a different neighbourhood just so they could be close to their coveted public school. We knew others who grimaced at the thought of sending kids to public school and had strong opinions in favour or private school or home school. The point being that almost everybody we talked to had formed ideas, opinions and convictions about their child’s education and we did not have to convince anyone that a good education was important. It seemed that every parent we encountered already greatly valued their child’s academic, athletic and artistic development. But when it came to their spiritual development, it was a surprisingly different story. Very few Christian families I have talked to over the years seem nearly as concerned about their child’s biblical education as they are about every other kind of education. Don’t get me wrong, they want their little “Johnny” or “Jane” to be saved and to have a relationship with Jesus. But many lack any kind of vision for a robust biblical education that impacts their child’s spiritual character, spiritual practices and worldview development. It simply isn’t on the radar for many people in our churches. Very few Christian families seem nearly as concerned about their child’s biblical education as they are about every other kind of education.  This is evidenced by the way we view the role of the home and the church in training up our children. Too often, the children’s ministry at church is treated as a baby-sitting service or the church library is untouched by families. Often we just want the children to go away so that we, the adults, can learn in peace. We ship our kids off to Christian school, hoping that qualified professionals will do the work for us. Yet all the while our homes remain spiritually vacant, with perhaps a short “Jesus shout-out” at meal- time. Is this what it looks like to provide a Gospel-education for our children? Who exactly is responsible for my child’s spiritual education and where does that take place? God’s Word is clear that both the home and the church (see Deut 6:4-8) are the two contexts in which children are to “grow in grace in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ” (2 Pet 3:18). This is not to discredit Christian schools, but biblically speaking the home is the primary context for discipleship and the church is the extended and supportive context for that development. These two institutions are both critical because they are God-ordained institutions. God created the family (Gen 1:24-26; Eph 3:14) and Jesus is the head of His church (Eph 1:22-23). Therefore, God will require of parents and the church an account for how we fed his little lambs (John 21:15). It should excite us that God chose to educate our kids in this fashion. Home and church are not merely academic-focused contexts for learning Christ. Rather, they are family-oriented contexts. That’s how God rigged it. He meant for children to learn Christ in the context of covenant acceptance and warm-hearted affection. So what is your vision for your child’s spiritual development? Home and church are not merely academic-focused contexts for learning Christ. Rather, they are family-oriented contexts. That's how God rigged it. Do you care about the curriculum your church uses or who is leading the Bible stories? Do you want your child not only to be saved but to learn how to think and act like Christ? Do you want them to be filled with God’s word and grow in grace and knowledge of their saviour who died for them? As parents, we can not accomplish this without the help of God’s spirit, but we can develop a plan for biblical education at home and value and support the children’s ministry as a context for spiritual development. ]]> https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=55 Sat, 13 May 2017 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/55/A-New-Look-At-An-Old-Tradition “At a camp renowned for its tough discipline, my job before the annual inspection was to paint the curbstones white. To my horror, I accidentally knocked over the paint pot, spilling in the road a large white puddle which I couldn’t obliterate. In desperation, I painted the puddle into a neat square – and thankfully my sergeant made no comment. Four years later I returned to the same camp. Not only was my square still there; it had been freshly repainted for the annual inspection.” —Reader’s Digest, Jan. 1977, p. 83 Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds.”  Here’s one that needs to be re-examined: “When He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “Take, eat; this is My body which is broken for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” 1 Cor 11:24, NKJV  A long-standing evangelical tradition, often perpetuated in communion services, alludes to the bread as representing the “broken body” of Jesus at his crucifixion. This tradition is based almost exclusively on the KJV and a few other sources. That interpretation conflicts with (1) the Greek text of the pertinent passage, (2) the cultural significance of breaking bread, and (3) the wider context — prophecy related to the Passover. 1. The Text The vast majority of current English translations reflect the fourth edition of the United Bible Societies’ Greek NT, which does not include a word for “broken” in 1 Cor. 11:24. A footnote indicates that the Greek text without the word “broken” is considered to be virtually certain. Translators of the KJV had access to relatively few biblical manuscripts compared to what is available today. The (UBS) Greek says, “This is my body that is for you.” The KJV translators relied on poor manuscript evidence to include the word “broken,” assuming that breaking the bread was intended to represent what happened to Jesus’ body. 2. Jewish Culture The Arndt & Gingrich Greek Lexicon, p. 434, under klaō, and various Bible commentaries say that at a typical Jewish meal the host would offer a prayer of thanks. Then he would break bread and distribute it, signaling the beginning of the meal. Breaking bread was only for the purpose of distributing it. Nothing more should be read into the custom. That pattern is followed when Jesus, the host, initiates the feeding of the 5000 and the 4000. Roots of this custom can be observed in the OT, but only in versions that reflect the nitty gritty of the underlying Hebrew text: No one shall break bread for the mourner, to comfort him for the dead... Jeremiah 16:7, RSV little children beg for bread, but no one gives them even a morsel.14 Lamentations 4:4 Footnote: 14 “there is not a divider to them.” The term פָּרַשׂ (paras …“to divide”) refers to breaking bread in two before giving it to a person to eat (Isa 58:7) – NET Bible. So, to break bread is to provide it. 3. Biblical Prophecy The Jewish Passover foreshadowed Christian communion. The Last Supper was a Passover meal. Jesus became the Passover Lamb. Instructions for eating the lamb are very clear in Exodus 12:46 “It shall be eaten in one house… you shall not break any of its bones.” Regarding the crucifixion John 19:31-37 says that the legs of two criminals were broken to hasten their deaths, but when the soldiers saw that Jesus was already dead, “they did not break his legs. Instead, one of the soldiers pierced his side... These things occurred so that the scripture might be fulfilled, ‘None of his bones shall be broken.’” Furthermore, if breaking the bread represents the “breaking” of Jesus’ body, why would Jesus break himself? He surrendered himself, but did not kill himself — was tortured but not broken. Why did God prohibit breaking the bones of the Passover lamb and of Jesus? I speculate: (1) God was limiting abuse against his Son. (2) He emphasizes the unity of the Church, the body of Christ. (3) Compare John 10:16-18: “I have other sheep that do not belong to this fold … there will be one flock, one shepherd … the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again. No one takes it from me,” [as would have been the case if the soldiers had broken his legs]. What about the two disciples who walked to Emmaus? “They told … how he had been made known to them in the breaking of bread.” Did they recognize him as their host and provider, even though he had come to Emmaus as their guest? Conclusion The evangelical tradition which assumes that breaking bread alludes to Jesus’ body being “broken” needs to be abandoned. Jesus’ body was not “broken.” It remains intact. We are one. ]]> My daughter has a habit of collecting things. However most of her collecting fondness is directed towards rocks. Some colorful, some smooth, big and small. Even the extremely regular or somewhat unexceptional ones she's drawn to for whatever reason. She'll fill her coat pockets or pass them off to me for safe keeping in the endless depths of my purse. Just one of the reasons mom's tend to have big, heavy purses. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=56 Thu, 04 May 2017 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/56/When-Sin-Gathers-So-Must-Love My daughter has a habit of collecting things. However most of her collecting fondness is directed towards rocks. Some colorful, some smooth, big and small. Even the extremely regular or somewhat unexceptional ones she’s drawn to for whatever reason. She’ll fill her coat pockets or pass them off to me for safe keeping in the endless depths of my purse. Just one of the reasons mom’s tend to have big, heavy purses. But she’ll gather her rocks together. She loves them. At times I find this habit a bit of a nuisance, particularly when my hands are full with jackets, or back packs, or books and then I’m handed a somewhat useless rock that belongs on the ground – yet it’s absolutely necessary for her to keep it. *sigh – “fine” I say. However when her rocks are gathered together, each individual and unique I can see the appeal. There’s something charming about it. When some things are gathered together in a beautiful collection, it’s a delight. For the past few months I’ve been soaking myself in the book of 1 Peter. A book I’ve read and studied multiple times before but the Holy Spirit is always faithful to illuminate and open my eyes to new and wonderful depth’s of the heart of God through His Word. One verse I’ve always loved is chapter 4:8… “Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins.” Its nice isn’t it? Love is nice. And this verse is all about it and how it covers and clears up the darkness in this world. What’s not to love about love and by extension this verse? It’s the kind of verse we memorize and crochet on pillows – and we ought to. And yet it all becomes more fascinating when we discover that Peter is writing these words to Christians in the midst of deep suffering and persecution. He’s giving them hard words and comforting words, and this is a surprisingly hard word. It’s more like a warning. Because he’s reminding these Christians that sin can creep through the cracks when suffering strikes. Right before this verse about love is a long list of sins we should be avoiding (most of them really obvious) and its a reminder from Peter that sin is present in Christians – even in the middle of hardship. We are very likely to be tempted because the flesh is weak and sins appeal is luring. Which means when Christians gather, just think of how many sins attend. Multitudes and multitudes. When we congregate on Sunday, so do our sins. Big and small, hidden or obvious, smooth and colorful – our sin piles one on top of the other. Cumbersome and excessive. But there’s an antidote to this ample weight…and that’s love. Church is a place where imperfect people congregate – where we bump into each other with disagreements, step on toes with harsh words and harden our hearts to difficult people. We are sinner’s on individual journey’s in sanctification. And that journey can get bumpy. Yet the church is also a hospital where hurting people get to come be ministered to, edified and equipped for the race God asks us to run. Because we are a community making up the body of Christ on a shared voyage of faith. Individual and yet communal is the church. And we commune because of the cross. When the sins of humanity gathered onto Jesus on the cross…it was sacrificial and powerful love that won the victory. And this is exactly why Peter implores the church to love each other. Christ's love is so compelling we can’t let the burdens of this world numb our love for our brothers and sisters. We must love and care and help lift the load. Sin will tempt us away from affection for the body of Christ but God is calling us to have a default of love. Because an abundance of sin needs an abundance of love. Earnest, practiced and intentional… love. ]]> https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=57 Wed, 19 Apr 2017 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/57/Must-Reads--Curated-Content WHAT YOUR BIOLOGY TEACHER DIDN'T TELL YOU ABOUT CHARLES DARWIN: All around the world Charles Darwin is hailed as one of the most intelligent thinkers of all time. And in some ways this is true. But often curriculums that teach about him neglect some very important things he thought to be good. Things like genocide. Read this one! MARRIAGE IS NOT THE MISSION: Surprised? I hope not, yet unfortunately in the church we can place getting married above the mission of Christ. But they are not the same thing. Married and single folks should give this one a read. OUR FAMILY WORSHIP AND FAILURE: How's your family worship time going? Do you feel like a failure? Well, so do most of us. And this post was written to encourage the discouraged parent not to give up on it all together but to heed some wisdom and keep going. It's better to do 4 minutes of something than no minutes of nothing. DISABILITY MAKES A CHURCH STRONG: This is a beautiful article written by a pastor and father of a child with disabilities. We would be helped to try and understand more intentionally what families are facing in this area especially when they come to church. GOSPEL REFLECTIONS WITH MARTIN LUTHER KING JR: A couple of weeks ago marked the anniversary of Martin Luther King Jr's death and this powerful video remembers him and his last speech. Let us never forget that racial harmony is a gospel issue. ]]> https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=58 Tue, 07 Mar 2017 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/58/Must-Reads--Curated-Content WRESTLING WITH GOD:  Often we think of wrestling with God as negative and only done in the hard times of life. But wrestling with the Creator ought to be regular as it brings such blessing. There are many ways we can wrestle with God, but what we want to avoid is wrestling against him or not wrestling at all. Give this article a read! PIXELS ARE PEOPLE:  Yes, the Internet can draw us closer together. But because of our sinful hearts, it can also push us apart. People—even those of us inside the church—easily twist God’s good gifts. Christians must remember that to connect to the Internet is not to disconnect from Christ’s lordship.  OUR MOTHER WHO ART IN HEAVEN?: The movie The Shack opens up a wonderful discussion on the use of gender language used in Scripture when speaking about who God is. And this article helps clarify some of these questions for those of us wondering. CALLED TO CHILDLESSNESS:  Here's a little look into the life of a couple who are living an unexpected calling. A calling that sadly can be misunderstood in the church more than anywhere else. Its an important one for Christians to read! ]]> The season of Lent is just around the corner. For some of you this comes as a surprise, since Lent is not something you're very familiar with. Perhaps you thought to yourself, 'Isn't Lent a Catholic thing?' Growing up in a charismatic Pentecostal church, I was more familiar with the word 'Shekinah' than 'Lent.' For others of you, you wish I hadn't reminded you of it. Lent has come to represent an old-fashioned, religious weight. Something required of you. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=59 Tue, 21 Feb 2017 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/59/The-Invitation-Of-Lent The season of Lent is just around the corner. For some of you this comes as a surprise, since Lent is not something you’re very familiar with. Perhaps you thought to yourself, ‘Isn’t Lent a Catholic thing?’ Growing up in a charismatic Pentecostal church, I was more familiar with the word ‘Shekinah’ than ‘Lent.’ For others of you, you wish I hadn’t reminded you of it. Lent has come to represent an old-fashioned, religious weight. Something required of you. I want you to consider Lent not as a requirement, but as an opportunity. The various seasons of the liturgical church year are carefully crafted around the main events of Jesus’ life to help us know and worship Him. The unchanging cycle of the church year frames our constantly changing experiences. Regardless of what’s going on in our lives or in the world, the church year tells us that now is a season to celebrate, or to slow down, or to fast, or to feast. These predictable patterns of life form our identity. We too easily forget certain aspects of the Christian story or put too much emphasis on some parts to the detriment of the others. "I want you to consider Lent not as a requirement, but as an opportunity." The early Christians observed the days of Jesus death and resurrection, and it became the custom of the church to prepare for them by a season of repentance and fasting. Lent is a time to slow down and create space for prayer, silence, and contemplation; to prepare our hearts for Easter so we don’t rush into holy week in an unthoughtful way.   Henri Nouwen writes: "How often have I lived through these weeks without paying much attention to penance, fasting, and prayer? How often have I missed the spiritual fruits of the season without even being aware of it? But how can I ever really celebrate Easter without observing Lent? How can I rejoice fully in your Resurrection when I have avoided participating in your death?" During Lent we recognize our failures, weakness, sins, and utter hopelessness apart from Jesus. We take time to confess, repent, seek forgiveness, and ask God to awaken us to the presence and conviction of the Spirit; all essential elements to spiritual health.  So if a church season can help us become a more repentant, empowered people, then shouldn’t we pay attention and participate? ]]> I can't be the only one completely overwhelmed and disheartened by the constant barrage of headlines and News reels that have filled the past couple of weeks. It's just so upsetting to live in a world that inhabits so much chaos and turmoil. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=60 Thu, 02 Feb 2017 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/60/What-Do-We-Do-With-This-World-In-Turmoil I can’t be the only one completely overwhelmed and disheartened by the constant barrage of headlines and News reels that have filled the past couple of weeks. It’s just so upsetting to live in a world that inhabits so much chaos and turmoil. Everyone believes they have the right answers, but no one really knows what to do aside from fight and debate about it online. What else can we do? We feel helpless to the mess. I write about this often because I find myself in this place often. I find myself feeling so lost in the frightening reality that humanity is perishing. It feels like I’m in a whirlpool, spinning and spinning trying to grip the edge to find some steady, only to miss the edge and get sucked into the center. What can we do? "I find myself feeling so lost in the frightening reality that humanity is perishing... What can we do?" My husband said something to me that gave me such perspective in the midst of my rant to him on how confused and depressed I was about what I was seeing in the News. He said, “Think of Daniel, and what he had to go through. Think of what was going on at that point in history. Daniel didn’t seem to concern himself with all of the enormous, fearful things he had no control over. But he dedicated himself to prayer and was faithful in the place God had him. Remember?” Right. Yes I remember. Deep breaths. This is, by the way, why I married my husband. Yes, lets all think about Daniel for second. After Babylon attacked Jerusalem, Daniel was taken into exile. Horrible. Can you imagine? Abruptly he had to live with the people who plundered his home and somehow he had to remain faithful to his God-given Jewish identity while being pressured to conform to the Babylonian way of life. They wanted him to bow to idols, eat unclean food and worship the King. What was he to do? What we see in the book of Daniel is a man’s unwavering devotion to God, even when his very life was in danger. He was faithful to the call of God to live in obedience to the Word at great risk to himself. But Daniel was successful in obedience and he gave himself to prayer. And what he experienced in the process was the mighty hand of God protecting him through it all. Yes, God allowed Daniel’s capture, which means it didn’t always go well for him, but with Daniels trust in God came God’s protection. Listen, I can only imagine Daniels thought-life was a battle ground. He was not an infallible man, which means I’m sure there was inner struggle and confusion. However his outer life remained devoted and unwavering to the Ancient Of Days. Daniel must have been utterly convinced that the God he served was absolutely in control even in the midst of the worlds current chaos. What a guy! The enduring reverence of Daniel…how I desire but a fragment of it. "Daniel must have been utterly convinced that the God he served was absolutely in control even in the midst of the worlds current chaos." When we look at this regular man from Jerusalem and the story God told with his life, we must learn and look and remember what it tells us about our Father in heaven. Learn, look and remember what it speaks of the world we inhabit. The book of Daniel shockingly is meant to be a book of hope. Hope that leads to obedience. Which is exactly what the Christian life is. Daniel exhibits this wonderfully even though he didn’t have the full revelation of this hope, like we do. Unlike Daniel, we know the fullest extent of this hope. And because of this, we should have the same kind of perseverance and unwavering obedience. The kind of obedience that puts boots on the ground even when we’re weary of the good fight. Obedience that reach’s out to those in need and shares the love of Christ. God requires us not to fix all the big problems mankind faces, but to remain faithful right where he has us. Steadfast and resolute in action right here…right where you and I are…right now. "God requires us not to fix all the big problems mankind faces, but to remain faithful right where he has us." I have my corner of the world to deal with and the troubles it faces pales in comparison to that of Babylon. And yet you and I have our own Babylon to navigate and the struggle to remain faithful in it is a generational battle, no matter the geographical placing. But do I pray like Daniel? Am I just as obedient in the face of it? “Then he said to me, “Fear not, Daniel, for from the first day that you set your heart to understand and humbled yourself before your God, your words have been heard, and I have come because of your words.” ~ Daniel 10:12 If this tells us anything about who God is, it’s that He wants us to set our heart on Him and humble ourselves in prayer. The promises He made to Daniel aren’t necessarily going to be the same for us today. However God never changes. And here we see what pleases Him. Daniel cried out to his Father in a time of uncertainty. And there is no doubt He wants us to do the same. He wants to hear His people – as He heard Daniel. God was sovereign over humanity and the globe when Daniel lived and died and He’s sovereign still. It won’t always go well for us, there is likely to be suffering. But Jesus is on His throne and our hope is secure. "Jesus is on His throne and our hope is secure." May this comforting knowledge be our food in these times of consternation. When the whirlpool starts spinning…think of Daniel. ]]> https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=61 Tue, 24 Jan 2017 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/61/Must-Reads--Curated-Content WORDS MATTER - RECOVERING GODLY SPEECH IN A CULTURE OF PROFANITY:  As prudish as this article may initially seem, as the author Jon Payne says, Paul's instruction concerning speech is so relevant to our own context it could have been written last week, and he's right, so we should probably listen up! ABORTIONS GUILT:  This past weekend marked the 44th anniversary of Roe V. Wade and because of this we think of the atrocities of abortion. But let's also remember the women around us who are living with the guilt of abortion and how we ought to love and support them in Christ.   IS YOUR CONSIENCE CAPTIVE TO GOD?: Probably a question we rarely if ever ask ourselves. Yet it's so important! We don’t want to hear the judgment of conscience; we want to destroy the judgment of conscience. That’s our nature. The only antidote is knowing the mind of Christ.  7 WAYS TO CARE FOR YOUR WIFE:  Husband's take notice of the fantastic list. It's practical yet infused with Scripture and gospel-love. Do something good for your marriage today by giving this one a read!  ]]> This is the time of year many of us make New Year's Resolutions. Since 'the chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever', it makes sense for our new year's resolutions to focus on bringing God glory. Getting a gym membership, losing 10 pounds, eating more kale, reading the Bible more, swearing less, and so on, can all certainly be God-glorifying. By reading Edwards' 70 resolutions you will see a great deal of examples that focus on bringing God glory in all of life. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=62 Mon, 26 Dec 2016 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/62/Resolutions This is the time of year many of us make New Year's Resolutions. Since 'the chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever', it makes sense for our new year's resolutions to focus on bringing God glory. Getting a gym membership, losing 10 pounds, eating more kale, reading the Bible more, swearing less, and so on, can all certainly be God-glorifying. By reading Edwards' 70 resolutions you will see a great deal of examples that focus on bringing God glory in all of life. A puritan (a group of English Protestants in the 16th-17th century who sought the reformation and purity of the church) by the name of Jonathan Edwards wrote the following resolutions in his diary over the span of a couple years in 1722-23. He is best known for his writing (most famous of which is Religious Affections) and his preaching, which God used mightily in the First Great Awakening (a revival in America in the eighteen century), and most famous sermon, Sinners in the Hands of An Angry God. Enjoy. Being sensible that I am unable to do anything without God's help, I do humbly entreat him by his grace to enable me to keep these resolutions, so far as they are agreeable to his will, for Christ's sake. Remember to read over these resolutions once a week. Resolved, that I will do whatsoever I think to be most to God's glory and to my own good, profit, and pleasure, in the whole of my duration, without any consideration of the time, whether now or never so many myriads of ages hence. Resolved to do whatever I think to be my duty, and most for the good and advantage of mankind in general. Resolved to do this, whatever the difficulties I meet with, how ever so many and how ever so great. Resolved, to be continually endeavouring to find out some new invention and contrivance to promote the forementioned things. Resolved, if ever I shall fall and grow dull, so as to neglect to keep any part of these resolutions, to repent of all I can remember, when I come to myself again. Resolved, never to do any manner of thing, whether in soul or body, less or more, but what tends to the glory of God; nor be, nor suffer it, if I can possibly avoid it. Resolved, never to lose one moment of time; but improve it the most profitable way I possibly can. Resolved, to live with all my might, while I do live.  Resolved, never to do anything that I should be afraid to do if it were the last hour of my life. Resolved, to act, in all respects, both speaking and doing, as if nobody had been so vile as I, and as if I had committed the same sins, or had the same infirmities or failings as others; and to let the knowledge of their failings promote nothing but shame in myself, and prove only an occasion of my confessing my own sins and misery to God. Resolved, to think much on all occasions of my own dying, and of the common circumstances which attend death. Resolved, when I feel pain, to think of the pains of martyrdom and of hell. Resolved, when I think of any theorem in divinity to be solved, immediately to do what I can toward solving it, if circumstances don't hinder. Resolved, if I take delight in it as a gratification of pride or vanity or on any such account, immediately to throw it by. Resolved, to be endeavouring to find out fit objects of charity and liberality. Resolved, never to do anything out of revenge. Resolved, never to suffer the least motions of anger to irrational beings. Resolved, never to speak evil of anyone, so that it shall tend to his dishonour, more or less, upon no account except for some real good. Resolved, that I will live so as I shall wish I had done when I come to die. Resolved, to live so at all times as I think is best in my devout frames, and when I have clearest notions of things of the gospel and another world. Resolved, never to do anything that I should be afraid to do if I expected it would not be above an hour before I should hear the last trump. Resolved, to maintain the strictest temperance in eating and drinking. Resolved, never to do anything that, if I should see it in another, I should count a just occasion to despise him for, or think any way the more meanly of him. Resolved, to endeavour to obtain for myself as much happiness in the other world as I possibly can, with al the power, might, visor, and vehemence, yea violence, I am capable of, or can bring myself to exert, in any way that can be thought of. Resolved, frequently to take some deliberate action that seems most unlikely to be done, for the glory of God, and trace it back to the original intentions, designs, and ends of it; and if I find it not to be for God's glory, to repute it as a breach of the 4th resolution. Resolved, whenever I do any conspicuously evil action, trace it back till I come to the original cause; and then both carefully endeavour to do so no more, and to fight and pray with all my might against the original of it. Resolved, to examine carefully and constantly what that one thing in me is that causes me in the least to doubt the love of God; and so direct all my forces against it. Resolved, to cast away such things as I find do abate my assurance. Resolved, never willfully to omit anything unless the omission is for the glory of God; and frequently to examine my omissions. Resolved, to study the Scriptures so steadily, constantly, and frequently that I may find, and plainly perceive myself to grow in the knowledge of them. Resolved, never to count that a prayer, nor to let that pass as a prayer or as a petition of a prayer, which is so made that I cannot hope that God will answer it; nor that as a confession, which I cannot hope God will accept. Resolved, to strive to my utmost every week to be brought higher in religion, and to a higher exercise of grace, than I was the week before. Resolved, never to say anything at all against anybody, but when it is perfectly agreeable to the highest degree of Christian honour and of love to mankind, agreeable to the lowest humility and a sense of my own faults and failings, and agreeable to the Golden Rule; often, when I have said anything against anyone, to bring it to, and try it strictly by, the test of this resolution. Resolved, to be strictly and firmly faithful to my trust, that in Proverbs 20:6, "A faithful man who can find?" may not be partly fulfilled in me. Resolved, always to do what I can towards making, maintaining, and preserving peace, when it can be without over-balancing detriment in other respects. Resolved, in narrations never to speak anything but the pure and simple verity. Resolved, whenever I so much question whether I have done my duty that my quiet and calm is thereby disturbed, to set it down, and also how the question was resolv]]> https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=63 Mon, 19 Dec 2016 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/63/Growing-Childlike-At-Christmas “And there appeared to him an angel of the Lord standing on the right side of the altar of incense. And Zechariah was troubled when he saw him, and fear fell upon him. But the angel said to him, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah, for your prayer has been heard, and your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you shall call his name John. And you will have joy and gladness, and many will rejoice at his birth, for he will be great before the Lord. And he must not drink wine or strong drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit, even from his mother’s womb. And he will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God, and he will go before him in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just, to make ready for the Lord a people prepared.” And Zechariah said to the angel, “How shall I know this? For I am an old man, and my wife is advanced in years.” – Luke 1:11-18 And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her.” – Luke 1:38 In our telling of the Christmas story, year after year, we often forget that the familiar tale has a prequel and does not begin with the angel Gabriel’s visit to a young virgin named Mary, but rather with an angel’s visit to an old and worn priest named Zechariah. Luke’s Gospel records this significant moment in history when after 400 years of silence, God spoke a fresh word of revelation to humanity in a place not unexpected. It was in the mighty Temple, the house of God, that God bellowed his voice again to a mature and godly Jewish leader. No one would deny the godly maturity of the aged Zechariah. In fact, Luke tells us up front that he and his wife Elizabeth were “both righteous before God, walking blamelessly in all the commandments and statutes of the Lord.” (Luke 1:6) As a priest, Zechariah was a more likely candidate than most to receive God’s first words after a long held breath. As a priest, Zechariah’s whole life centred around the Scriptures. Zechariah would have known well the old story of God’s faithfulness to Abraham and Sarah, for instance, to give them their promised son Isaac in their old age. Luke tells us that Zechariah’s character also matched his profession. He clearly walked the walk as much as he talked the talk. And yet, as the angel Gabriel spoke to Zechariah, announcing the message of God’s forerunner to be born through him and his aged wife, suddenly Zechariah became plagued by doubt. He did not believe the angel’s message. Zechariah could no get past the idea that his wife would actually conceive after such a lengthy suffering of barrenness. It seemed too impossible. Too far-fetched an idea, that God would announce such wonders to him. What are we to make of this loss of faith, especially after Luke explicitly informs us that Zechariah was a godly individual? I believe Zechariah’s response to the angel Gabriel was the response of a mature, godly priest who had lost his sense of childlike wonder at God’s ability to do impossible things. And because of this, it was his turn to be silent. God took away his ability to speak for a time until his promised son, John (not-yet the Baptist) would be born. Zechariah was ironically not allowed to announce this good news to anyone because of his moment of unbelief. "I believe Zechariah’s response to the angel Gabriel was the response of a mature, godly priest who had lost his sense of childlike wonder at God’s ability to do impossible things." After this ironic failure, Luke introduces us to the familiar story of Mary’s encounter with that same angel, Gabriel. Having just finished her childhood years and on the cusp of womanhood (Mary was likely 14-16 years old) we might expect some measure of immaturity or irreverent response from someone so young to something so majestic. Yet if you have ever spent time around the young, you know their response to the incredible is so often different. Though both Zechariah and Mary responded with awe and surprise, Mary’s response was not tainted by doubt like Zechariah. Mary asked Gabriel the same question, “how can this be?” but with a heart of curiosity rather than doubt.  When Mary heard the incredible news that the holy spirit would conceive God’s son in her womb, she responded in childlike faith and humbled herself under God’s mighty hand (see 1 Peter 5:6). "If you have ever spent time around the young, you know their response to the incredible is so often different." This contrast between Zechariah and Mary, reminds us of the dangers of growing cynical and clinical as we age. As time goes on in life, we encounter many trials, griefs and sufferings. If we submit our needs to the Lord, we grow in wisdom, learning to understand that God has his purposes and his timetable and that we are wise to expect trouble and the ordinary patterns, cycles and rhythms of life. However, if we are not careful to watch over our hearts, we can turn from wisdom to cynicism and begin looking at the world in a clinical/mechanical way.  No longer are we awestruck by God’s creation of the stars and snowflakes. Our prayers become like a broken record, rather than fresh pleadings and expectations for God to draw near.  Sometimes, we even “grow” to believe that everything in life has a natural explanation simply because we can forecast the weather with reasonable predictablity. In childhood however, it is different. When I saw the falling snow as a young boy, it was clear that someone made it happen. Surviving a car accident at age 5 was by no means a happenstance of luck, God did it! Experiencing a lightning storm at age 6 was nothing short of God saying, “watch this, Chris!” When I was a child, my view of God was big and since God was God, he could do as he pleased anytime he wanted. And though “God can do it” may seem simplistic to some, it is the explanation the Bible so often gives. “God thunders wondrously with his voice: he does great things that we cannot comprehend. For to the snow he says, “Fall on the earth” (Job 37:5-6). "When I was a child, my view of God was big and since God was God, he could do as he pleased anytime he wanted. And though “God can do it” may seem simplistic to some, it is the explanation the Bible so often gives." As adults we are more tempted to see the world, not as a place of wonders, but as a predictable clock where nothing happens out of the ordinary.  Too many times we take the Zechariah approach in our questioning, “How could God let this happen?” “If God existed, then why such and such?”. Rather than the Mary approach, “Wow Lord, how did you do that?” Both lines of questioning can lead us to further knowledge, but the former carries with it the black shadow of doubt, while the latter of faith. Perhaps this is why we love the Christmas story so much. It reminds us that we are still little children basking at a wondrous God. May we learn to grow more childlike this Christmas, and all through the year, as we remember that “the Lord has done great things.” (Luke 1:49) "Christmas...reminds us that we are still little children basking at a wondrous God. May we learn to gr]]> https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=64 Wed, 14 Dec 2016 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/64/Must-Reads--Curated-Content JESUS ISN'T THREATENED BY YOUR CHRISTMAS GIFTS: Everyone riddled with guilt over the gift-giving at Christmas, take a deep breath out and then read this short article. A TIP FOR HUSBANDS: This is an extremely simple and practical yet potentially very impactful marriage tip for the men to take heed. Who knows, maybe this is what your marriage needs in the middle of all the busyness of Christmas! EVEN IF HE DOESN'T: Boy is this an important read. And not just for women. I wonder how many of us operate in our faith under the assumption that God's goodness is only proved when our particular desires are met. It is possible to grieve the end of our plans while still maintaining hope for the future. It’s possible to beg God for one outcome, and still praise Him in the middle of a different outcome. WORTH EVERY SECOND:  This is a must watch! Twenty-one surgeries by age thirteen. Years in the hospital. Verbal and physical bullying from schoolmates. Multiple miscarriages as a young wife. The death of a child. A debilitating progressive disease. Riveting pain. Abandonment. Unwanted divorce. Vaneetha Rendall Risner begged God for grace that would deliver her. But God offered something better: his sustaining grace. ]]> https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=65 Mon, 12 Dec 2016 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/65/Advent-In-A-Dystopia In a time which profess’ so much social, scientific and technological progress, we also find ourselves in a world of peril. Our so-called progress has still not eliminated the darkest things the human race can produce…like war, famine, murder and greed. We still find ourselves at odds with each other over all kinds of issues of the day. And every time we think we’ve nailed that final progress piece into place, more turmoil rises to the surface. It appears as though our planet is in a downward spiral. As though this great historical narrative is indeed a dystopian. We’re working so hard to find our utopia. But alas, I believe all efforts just add to the looming reality that the pursuit for personal happiness can only be found on the backs of others losses. One persons victory, usually means another persons defeat. Will we ever live in a world where everyone gets a taste of the glory? Perhaps it feels much like the Roman empire felt long ago. Maybe in a small way we can relate to that same longing and wonder about the fate of this world and where this narrative will take us. Before an angel would confront a young girl about her own body and it housing a redeemer, God’s people knew hardship and disappointment well. They had wandered in the desert, elected kings and judges, heard the prophets and yet still found themselves wearily lost in sin and subject to the lofty whims of selfish rulers. Where was the justice in all this? Perhaps this story won’t end as the prophets taught? Maybe its a downward spiral, with no victory. Advent comes to us every year in the midst of tragedy. It shows up right smack dab at the center of a world in peril. The human race doesn’t put down their guns, greed and hardship just because its Christmas time. Those things continue, we just begin to sing songs that say “peace on earth”. But there is no peace on earth. Not now. Not just because we sing it. And there was no peace on earth when a plain and simple jewish girl came face to face with the spiritual realm and was called the ‘favored one’. In that moment on the planet, hate and crime and sin didn’t cease and desist. And yet something was happening. Something big was happening. The political climate was scary, but an ancient plan was unfolding. One that no human person seeking utopia could have ever imagined. It was a plan only someone large enough to see the whole story could have thought up. Someone who knows the ending. Every Advent I find myself here. Wondering what’s going to happen next. We will turn a page to a whole new year soon, and what will happen then? Everything in me feels like it’s a dystopia. This story. It can feel that way. But the Writer isn’t done writing yet. And those who call Him Lord know a bit about how this one ends. Glory and hope and justice does prevail. “Peace on earth” is in the forecast and that’s why we sing it. Something is happening. Something big is happening. Although today seems grim for those still stuck in sin and for those held under the thumb of a tyrannical government – we know because of that Angel encounter back in history that this narrative ends in victory. And we long for it to come. We wait in wonder of how this plot will thicken and climax until the last triumphant Word is written. And we trust that though it feels like we’re in a dystopia…this narrative is one of redemption. Which is why we light candles in the dark – In remembrance and joyful expectancy. We see the light and we know He’s here. Our God. Emmanuel. The long-awaited Saviour. We remember His promises and breath deep His love for us. Because the day will come…the story is already set. Hardship still stand in our way but even in the middle of it, may we echo Mary – that chosen girl’s response to the unknown and say with our eyes heavenward… “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.” May we look to the light – The light of the world. ]]> In light of my sermon on homosexuality I thought it might be helpful to share some testimonies of followers of Jesus who have wrestled with the texts of Scripture and their same-sex attraction. The stories of others help us remember that we're not on this journey of faith in Jesus alone and that others face the same challenges. None of us are the only ones struggling with a particular proclivity to sin. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=66 Sun, 20 Nov 2016 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/66/Homosexuality-Testimonies-Of-New-Life-In-Christ In light of my sermon on homosexuality I thought it might be helpful to share some testimonies of followers of Jesus who have wrestled with the texts of Scripture and their same-sex attraction. The stories of others help us remember that we're not on this journey of faith in Jesus alone and that others face the same challenges. None of us are the only ones struggling with a particular proclivity to sin. For those at Central (and beyond) who are same-sex attracted: You are not alone. Jesus loves you and we love you. May the stories of these brothers and sisters in Christ give you hope, courage, and a renewed sense of faith in the God who wants to, above all, give you Himself. Below the testimonies are some links to articles, books, and additional video clips. Book Recommendations These books are helpful resources for those attracted to the same sex, those who want to do further study on what the Bible says about homosexuality, and for those who want to be able to love well with grace and truth (Some of these resources are available in our Resource Library): Is God Anti-Gay?: And Other Questions About Homosexuality, the Bible, and Same-Sex Attraction - Sam Allberry Washed and Waiting: Reflections on Christian Faithfulness and Homosexuality - Wesley Hill Same-Sex Attraction and the Church: The Surprising Plausibility of the Celibate Life - Ed Shaw The Secret Thoughts of an Unlikely Convert - Rosaria Butterfield Homosexuality and the Christian: A Guide for Parents, Pastors, and Friends - Mark Yarhouse Additional Online Resources Is It OK To Be Gay? A Candid Conversation on Christians and Same-Sex Attraction - A panel discussion (Russell Moore (Moderator), Christopher Yuan, Sam Allberry, Rosaria Butterfield, And Jackie Hill-Perry) The Bible And Same-Sex Relationships: A Review Article - Tim Keller (A response to 'God and the Gay Christian: The Biblical Case in Support of Same-Sex Relationships' by Matthew Vines) Homosexuality: A Better Approach - Ronald Sider The Story of a Same-Sex Attracted Pastor and Husband - Allan Edwards ]]> https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=67 Thu, 17 Nov 2016 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/67/Must-Reads--Curated-Content ON DAUGHTERS AND DATING - HOW TO INTIMIDATE SUITORS: Parents of daughters read this one! Instead of intimidating all your daughter’s potential suitors, raise a daughter who intimidates them just fine on her own. Because you know what’s intimidating? Strength and dignity. Deep faith. Self-assuredness. Wisdom. Kindness. Humility. Industriousness. Those are the bricks that build the wall that withstands the advances of Slouchy-Pants, whether you ever show up with your Winchester locked and loaded or not. The unsuitable suitor finds nothing more terrifying than a woman who knows her worth to God and to her family.” WHY DIFFICULTIES IN THE BIBLE ARE A GOOD THING: The more you read the Bible the more you might find yourself reading portions that are difficult to comprehend. And it gets even more challenging when there is disagreement in the church on what a text may mean. However Gods intent for the Bible is for it to be understood. Give this really helpful article a read. FOUR DAILY PRAYERS FOR YOUR CHILDREN: Here's a perfectly practical yet rooted in Scripture post for every parent. Especially with small kids, prayers can be difficult to lace together. We have a thousand requests for our children: that they would be saved, that they would learn obedience, that they would finally learn to eat broccoli, that they would quit hitting other kids in their class, and on and on. Where do we start? THE WORTH OF THE WEAK: The church is filled with all kinds of different people rubbing shoulders and often disagreeing with one another. It's not always harmonious. Why does it have to be this way? This short little post gives some great perspective on why the church needs the strong and the weak for the growth of us all. ]]> I'll let you in on a little secret (if you hadn't noticed already). Christians have their own sub-culture. We have our own schools, bookstores, radio stations, bumper stickers, and dating websites. We have our own Christian Rock Bands (yes, I know this sounds like an oxymoron). https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=68 Thu, 30 Jun 2016 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/68/The-Weird-And-Confusing-World-Of-The-Christian-SubCulture I’ll let you in on a little secret (if you hadn’t noticed already). Christians have their own sub-culture. We have our own schools, bookstores, radio stations, bumper stickers, and dating websites. We have our own Christian Rock Bands (yes, I know this sounds like an oxymoron). We even have an ever-expanding language of our own called Christianese. It consists of biblical words like fellowship, worship, sin, saved, kingdom, and disciple. It also includes phrases like, getting into the Word, laying out a fleece, doing life together, and being missional. This jargon and sub-culture can be confusing, and in some cases a total turn-off to Christianity. But even though there are some confusing things about Christians and the churches they are a part of, don’t let that scare you away. These things are the byproduct of a people committed to their faith in Jesus. They have encountered Jesus in such a life-changing way that every aspect of their lives are impacted. Perhaps you’ve witnessed them raising their hands up towards the heavens as they sing songs at church or stretch their hands out towards someone being prayed for on the stage. Perhaps you’ve experienced the gift of free food, clothing, and shelter from a church ministry with no strings attached. Perhaps you’ve come across views on marriage and family that seem archaic and narrow. The reason I ask you not to let those things scare you away is because underneath it all there is a God who makes Himself known to the world in the person and work of Jesus Christ. I encourage you to get close enough to a Christian and a church to encounter this life-changing Saviour, you may just come to see what all the periphery stuff is about. "The reason I ask you not to let those things scare you away is because underneath it all there is a God who makes Himself known to the world in the person and work of Jesus Christ." To those reading this who are followers of Jesus (another term for Christians), I would encourage you not to let sub-cultural Christianity obscure Christ. In other words, much of what we do can be so confusing to those unfamiliar with the faith that Jesus becomes inaccessible to them. The Apostle Paul (who wrote a lot of the New Testament) declared, “I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some” (1 Corinthians 9:22). Meaning, he worked at being understandable to the people in their cultures rather than expect them to understand his in order to effectively reach them with the Good News of Jesus Christ. "Much of what we do can be so confusing to those unfamiliar with the faith that Jesus becomes inaccessible to them." Lets use a home as an analogy for this. The terminology, the music, the views, the moral expectations, should not be the front porch. Jesus should be. Jesus should be the front porch and the whole house! The saving grace of Jesus: the foundation. The wonderful doctrines of the faith: the furniture. And the sub-cultural elements? Those should be the trinkets in the house, cute little things that give the home some quirky personality. Like a Kiss-The-Chef apron, a scentsy warmer, and a lava lamp. "Lets make sure that we don’t come off like an episode of hoarders, where the trinkets obscure the beautiful home to the detriment of our guests." Christianity really is a culture within a culture and that is a beautiful thing. We believe that Jesus changes everything, including the way we live. Lets just make sure that we don’t come off like an episode of hoarders, where the trinkets obscure the beautiful home to the detriment of our guests. ]]> What keeps us from sharing the gospel with others? More often than not, it's because we feel ill-equipped, under-qualified, and worried that they might ask a difficult question we don't know the answer to. I hope this helps you grow in confidence and courage in sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with others. https://www.centralcommunity.ca/qry/page.taf?id=15&_function=detail&sbtblct_uid1=69 Fri, 24 Jun 2016 00:00:00 PST https://www.centralcommunity.ca/blog/69/How-Do-I-Share-The-Gospel-With-Someone What keeps us from sharing the gospel with others? More often than not, it's because we feel ill-equipped, under-qualified, and worried that they might ask a difficult question we don't know the answer to. I hope this helps you grow in confidence and courage in sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with others. HOW DO I BUILD CREDIBILITY? Opportunities to share the gospel certainly arise with strangers, which are God-ordained — such as on a plane or at a park as your kids are playing — but generally speaking, we earn the right to speak into the lives of those we have relationships with. I have a neighbour who has been watching my life and he has told me that the reason why he has started coming to Central, joined my Life Group, and wants to learn all he can about Jesus is because of the credibility I have with him by the way I interact with my kids, my wife, and the neighbourhood. He wants what I have, because he has observed me in an ongoing relational setting. Our credibility comes from others watching our lives and wanting what we've got. This presents it's own challenges by the way, because I'm FAR from perfect. I'm a wretch who is saved by grace. So I feel the heat to be holy! My neighbourhood (and church, and family) is watching my life. But it's what's opening the door to the gospel for those I'm investing in as well. So as you model the Christian walk you build credibility with those around you. This credibility should translate itself into sharing the hope that is in you and the basic gospel message. HOW DO I SHARE THE GOSPEL? Sometimes we steer clear of sharing the gospel with someone altogether because we're not sure if we can express it succinctly yet fully enough and with clarity. So here are the bases to cover (Is there more to say about every piece? Absolutely! But if we share the gospel simply and succinctly in a conversational way, it welcomes dialogue, questions, and doubts to be expressed. In reality, the following may not all happen in one conversation. It may happen over the course of multiple conversations): All people have sinned. The penalty for sin is death. And Jesus died to pay the penalty for our sins. 1. Explain the facts concerning salvation: A) All people have sinned (Rom. 3:23).  B) The penalty for our sin is death (Rom. 6:23).  C) Jesus Christ died to pay the penalty for our sins (Rom. 5:8). These are just the facts. The individual you're talking to can agree with these facts. But there also needs to be an invitation and opportunity given for response. We explain the gospel in a way that leads to two responses: repentance and faith. 2. Invite a personal response to Christ in repentance and faith. If a response to the gospel doesn't include both repentance of sins or trusting in Jesus for salvation the gospel has not been truly proclaimed/believed (Mark 1:15; Acts 2:38; Acts 3:19). Coming to saving faith in Jesus means repenting of sin and trusting in Christ. So we want to explain the gospel in ways that lead to these two responses. "And this is the promise that he made to us—eternal life"  1 John 2:25 3. Share the promise of forgiveness and eternal life. The promises of God to those who believe are many. His grace is staggeringly rich. But the primary promises regarding salvation are the forgiveness of sins and eternal life with Christ (Luke 23:43; John 3:16; Acts 2:38; Acts 3:19). Jesus said, "whoever comes to me I will never cast out" (John 6:37), "Come to me...and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28), "And this is the promise that he made to us—eternal life (1 John 2:25). WHY SHARE THE GOSPEL WITH OTHERS? We possess the greatest treasure in the world: The Gospel (Matthew 13:44). Jesus tells us not to put it under a bowl but to put it on a stand so that it gives light... (Matthew 5:15). This treasure and light that God has graciously revealed to us is too wonderful to keep to ourselves. We are told to proclaim it to the whole world (Matthew 24:14) and that unbelievers won't come to faith without hearing about Jesus (Romans 10:14).  "This treasure and light that God has graciously revealed to us is too wonderful to keep to ourselves." As we go about sharing the gospel with those around us, God goes about His transforming work of turning hearts of stone into hearts of flesh (Ezekiel 36:26). What a privilege it is to get to play a part in the God-ordained method of salvation: we preach and proclaim, Jesus saves. Central, lets love our neighbours and wider community well. This includes sharing the gospel with them.   "We preach and proclaim, Jesus saves" ]]>