Puzzling Seasons

There are 43 quintillion possible configurations of the Rubik’s Cube. That’s 43 with eighteen zeros attached to it. That means you can have the same cube look different in 43 quintillion ways, and yet it is still the same cube.

However, did you know that the fastest “cubers” can solve a randomized cube in under 10 seconds? A couple of people have even solved it in 5 seconds... FIVE!

Sound impossible? Well get this, any cube can be solved with just 20 moves! You can look it up. It only took mathematicians about 30 years to figure it out.

So, this year we got one of our sons, Samuel, a Rubik’s Cube for his birthday. None of us had ever solved one, so it didn’t take long before we bought two more—one for me (Jack) and another for Russell. We thought it would be fun to learn how to solve it together. 

At first I was intrigued, learning about how Erno Rubik created the game “on accident” when trying to create a new puzzle back in 1974. Then I was determined.

We successfully searched the World Wide Web for some insights and lessons and spent one of my “off” days watching YouTube videos. We learned a few classic strategies, memorized about 5 algorithms, and eventually solved our first Cube. What an accomplishment! I don’t remember what it felt like when I first learned how to ride a bike, but I bet it’s similar. 

Samuel’s gotten pretty good at it. He can solve his in just over 2 minutes now. That’s not too bad for beginners like us! Still, we would have to learn a hundred more algorithms before we could solve one in under 30 seconds. Not a current goal of mine.

But what would be worth the time it takes to become great?

Many accomplishments take hundreds and even thousands of hours to achieve. When it came to the Cube, my ultimate aim was doing something fun together, which often feels like a more difficult puzzle to solve. 

I am in a season of parenting young children right now, and different seasons require extra effort and intentionality. Some seasons may feel like a giant puzzle that you’re trying to solve. 

Maybe you feel like you are just turning a bunch of pieces and not seeing any results. And if you’ve ever played with a Rubik’s Cube, you know what I mean. But persevering in whatever calling God has given you is worth the intentionality and effort. It may have 43 quintillion different variations, and sometimes it seems impossible to “solve,” but we can trust Him to guide us and turn the pieces of our lives.

Galatians 6:9,
Pastor Jack

Unexpected Friendship

I texted one of my neighbors at 6am: “It’s Monday...does that mean I’m headed to the gym alone?” He shot back, “Not today.”

At first, I took that as, “I’m not going today.” But before I backed out of my driveway, he opened my passenger door and jumped in the seat. I was startled, but glad.

We have been hitting the gym 3–4 times each week in the mornings, and it has been good for my health. I can tell that I have more energy and feel better throughout the day.

But that’s surprisingly not the best part. I find myself most looking forward to spending time with my neighbor.

What’s shocking is, he doesn’t go to church. Anywhere. 

He’s just a regular guy with kids and a job… and a pastor as a neighbor. 

Now, my family and I have been praying for years that God would help us be good neighbors and witnesses. We have faithfully prayed for our neighbors by name. We have welcomed them into our home, enjoyed food together, and we’ve invited them to church services and Awana.

But I would never have guessed that God would open the door for a mutual friendship.

To my shock and surprise, my don’t-go-to-church buddy has encouraged me in my walk as a pastor. He has passionately challenged me about my “path” as a Christian man, husband, and father. And he has motivated me to continue exercising. 

Clearly, God has been speaking to his own heart. Gratefully, God has brought me to his neighborhood.

What began as a simple prayer and church sending, has turned into an unexpected friendship and opportunity for an everlasting relationship.

Would you pray for me, that God would overcome my weaknesses and inabilities and open the door for the Word? Would you pray that I would grow in my walk as a friend and neighbor?

This has been a great blessing in my life, and I believe there is more to come.

This Sunday we'll think about the disaster that occurred when Jesus tried to convert His hometown. Why did His attempt “fail”? What made them so angry?

Guess you’ll have to gather with us to find out... see you then!

Galatians 6:9,
Pastor Jack

A Half-Mowed Lawn and Jesus' Steadfast Presence

Samuel walked up to me while we were mowing and trimming the yard (he mows, I trim) and tells me that the lawnmower was broken.

“Mmhmm…”

Of course, I just thought that he was missing some step and casually walked over to the mower and turned it on. I have an EGO electric mower, which I love. You pull the lever, press the button, and you’ve got the quietest mower in the world, and it cuts the grass just fine. 

But not this time. 

This time it shook like a spring door stop, turned off, and then the red LED on the display began to blink. Now, my friends wouldn’t exactly call me a “mechanic,” but I was pretty sure that something was wrong. Red never seems too good. 

I turned it over and checked the blade. It apparently was pulling up grass from the roots. “Maybe it wasn’t sharp enough?” I had no clue what was wrong, so I dragged it into the garage and took the blade off to examine it.

I’m also not a “blade-ologist,” so I did what anybody my age would do: I googled it. 

There wasn’t a replacement blade within a 40-minute drive, and only half of my yard was cut. HALF. It was also after dinner time. We all know you should look at the glass half full, not half empty, but I doubt my neighbors would keep that perspective if I left my yard half-complete. 

I started thinking of alternative solutions, and I really didn’t want to borrow a neighbor’s mower if I didn’t have to. Then it occurred to me, I have a Power+ String Trimmer (weed eater)! It’s not really meant to cut a yard, but it could be a temporary resolve until I get a new blade in.

So I spent the next few moments trimming my yard down as evenly as possible (emphasis on “as possible”). It reminded me of the first time my mom let my aunt cut my hair as a kid. My hair was technically shorter, but I wouldn’t exactly call it a “win.”

Nevertheless, the front yard was cut and I bought myself a week to figure it out.

This year has brought a lot of new challenges for me. I’m having to pivot quickly and try new ways of doing things. Some are different but just as easy, and others have left me waiting for a more permanent solution.

The good news is, Jesus’ presence and promises haven’t changed. My faith in Him isn’t based on a predictable and comfortable life. 

I like the way Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. put it, “Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.”

I haven’t seen the staircase in about 7 months, but Jesus hasn’t left.

See you guys this Sunday as we look at Jesus’ second sign in John’s Gospel.

Will He get upset and leave them? Can He still work among a people who need to see before they believe? You’ll have to come and hear the story to find out!

I love you, Grace. 
— Pastor Jack

Practicing Trust

I was a little taken aback when he asked, but I was glad that he did.

When I said that I am “trusting God with all of this,” he was quick to reply, “what does that even mean?!”

You know that feeling of, “So what! How does that help me now?!” That’s the vibe he was giving.

Friends that won’t take simple answers and pose deeper questions are both a blessing and a pest. I know, because I am one of those people. When those outside of the church ask me surprising questions, it is often a vulnerable exposure of the heart. They’re almost always connected to doubt or pain.

I think we all want to hear the truth in practical terms. When friends are hurting, they’re not interested in the lofty musings of a philosopher. They want something to apply to their current situation that sounds like it came from a wise farmer, not a grandiloquent professor (amirite?).

My friend wanted to know how I was dealing with all of the change and tension in my life, probably because he wanted to know how to handle his own.

Times are difficult right now. Many things have changed on a global scale in just a mere two months. Not only that, but my place of worship and work have become unfamiliar and uniquely challenging. Every time we make a decision, it changes before the week is over. New information or events have caused additional work, extra meetings, and added stress.

So, after silently praying in my mind, I told him how I have been trusting God in the fewest amount of words I could.

“Well, first, I have told God everything that is going on in my life. Every worry, every concern, every joy, every desire; I have shared everything I can with Him. I even opened up about my current regrets... bad things I’ve been thinking and feeling and, sadly, doing. I have confessed and spoken about it all with Him.

Second, I continue to believe that He actually cares. The Bible says to cast all your worries and concern on Jesus because He cares for you. I have faith in the Bible, so I believe that Jesus genuinely cares about what is happening in my life. I know He loves me, and I remind myself of that every day.

Third, I expect that He is going to do something about it. I believe He responds to all of my prayers. He doesn’t always do what I ask (thank God!), but He hears every word and has the power to change hearts and situations, including mine.

That is how I trust God. I share all that is going on, believe that He cares, and know that He will intervene and work it all out for the good.”

After I was done he simply said, “Oh... okay.”

Because our friendship is strong, I assumed that he wasn’t unaffected or uninterested. Maybe he just had to chew on it for a while. Either way, I was glad he asked, because once we finished talking I looked upward and whispered, “Thanks for reminding me how to trust You.”

I have been practicing trust a lot lately. Some of the process feels like exercise... I know the next move, and I choose to do it. But my heart hasn’t been left behind. As I practice trust, I develop more trust. And I don’t know of anything I need more than trust right now. 

I love you Grace family, and I am praying that God continues to guard your hearts as you trust Him with your lives. I will see you (well, you’ll see me) this Sunday as we continue learning about how Jesus lived as a human being.

Pastor Jack

A Strange and Uninvited Disruption

“Why is there a strange egg in our nest?!”

Courtney and I really enjoy the springtime. She loves gardening and working on our landscape, and our time outside has been refreshing and joyful.

We love it when the birds are singing in the morning and, for the past couple of years, we have had birds build their nest on our front door wreath.

It's always energizing to have new life chirping right outside of our door.

But this year was different.

The birds did come. And they did lay eggs. But as we inspected the nest (which we only do rarely out of eager anticipation), we noticed a strange colored egg sitting right next to the other eggs.

Out of curiosity, Courtney posted it on social media. We then did a little research ourselves and found that it was a cowbird egg. Cowbirds are “brood parasites” that lay their eggs in the nests of other birds… my birds.

(I say, “my birds” because I have become fond of our little winged friends. Courtney makes fun of me for pretending to be Dr. Doolittle as I whistle to them and watch them through our porch window.)

I did not like the idea of a sneaky bird messing up the good thing we had going on. Was this nature’s unsolicited foster care program? Why did that bird think she could have free daycare?

It was a little off-putting at first, but we found out that it's illegal to remove it (not that I would be one to disrupt a nest). Some even argue that the cowbird developed this technique to survive.

All I know is, my life can relate to that nest right now.

Recently, I felt like there has been a strange and uninvited disruption laid right in the middle of my comfortable and familiar life. 

Then it hit me.

Cowbirds are looking for help. They are looking for a “stronghold” for their babies. And isn’t that what I’m doing too?

The Lord is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.  And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O Lord, have not forsaken those who seek you. —Psalm 9:9–10

My question of “Why would that bird cheat that other mama like that” was really a deeper question of “Why is this happening in my life right now?”

When I ask that question, I know where to go. I know where to search. Like that cowbird, I am looking for a stronghold. 

So even though I don’t like to admit it, I am like a cowbird. I am dependent on the care and protection of another... Jesus. I have only to sit under his loving care and allow Him to provide for my needs each day. Apart from Him, I can do nothing.

I love you, dear church family, and I eagerly await the day when I will see you face-to-face (or mask-to-mask), whatever that looks like. You are daily in my prayers and on my heart. May you trust in His strength for each day and bright hope for tomorrow. 

Pastor Jack

It's Never Too Late

It began with an unexpected call from my father. He wanted to fly to Kansas and spend almost a week with us... soon. We were glad to host him. God has gifted Courtney with the heart and diligence for hospitality, so we have always kept an open door to our family members (well, most of them, lol).

But you have to understand my relationship with my father. He enlisted in the Marines as a teenager and spent most of my childhood out of the house. He named me after the Tennessee whiskey, Jack Daniel’s, because that was cool. Needless to say, I didn’t grow up in a Christian home.

Then he and my mom split up, and from the age of 9 I never lived with him again. This “complicated” my relationship with him. I didn’t know how to receive love or feel anything when I was around him. It’s like I was emotionally numb on purpose. Can anybody relate?

When I was in my 20’s, I finally confronted him. I shared my heart, and he responded the best he knew how. I didn’t know if the confrontation was worth it, and since I lived far away, I left it in Michigan.

Then something wonderful happened. A few years later, we were driving around in his truck, and he initiated the conversation.

“Jack, I’m sorry. If I had known what kind of Dad I was and wasn’t, I would have never been that way to you. I’m sorry for the kind of father I have been.”

What happened?

My dad started going to church, and God was slowly peeling back the layers of hurt and confusion that surrounded his life. He watched me and my sister with “his grandkids,” and realized that the way we were bringing them up was in stark contrast to his own parenting.

The blindfold was removed, and God was working in his heart.

Then he moved to Oregon. More importantly, he started going to a church that emphasized personal discipleship. He began meeting with a man who walked him through sound doctrine, and he recently hit a growth spurt.

I’m so proud of him. And I’m thankful for God’s grace on our family.

Before the turn of the century, no one could have predicted 2020 for our family. You would have said, “Not a chance.” But God doesn’t rely on chance. 

God is still at work, reconciling people to Himself and each other.

Check out this picture of my dad in the service last Sunday (thanks to Teri Mather):

It’s never too late.

---

This Sunday we will continue our study on Heaven and look at Revelation 6. Which brings a question to mind: When’s the last time you brushed up on the seals and trumpets and bowls of wrath? See you on Sunday!

I love you, brothers and sisters.
Pastor Jack

Father, Lord, and Friend

About 5 or 6 times I wanted to close my tablet and walk off the stage. I felt as if I were just reading words off a page, emotionally discouraged and wanting to quit.

“God, how can this be real? I know you’ve called me to preach...”

This isn’t a recollection from years ago... I’ve just described what happened a couple of months ago.

The first service went really well, and I was able to preach with an open and clear heart. We had “amens” from the congregation and people walked up to me to share that God had spoken through the passage. What a blessing from God.

But the next service was the opposite. I bounced around in my notes and had a hard time knowing what I was supposed to say next. I lost my place and skipped a page. My countenance had “fallen,” and I was ready to just go home. A lady even came up to me after the second service to say she was worried, and that I seemed off.

I’m not sharing this for pity, or to scare you, or to turn preaching into a man-centered task for attention. I’m sharing this to be open and honest. I love you all and want to share my life with you... not just a fake presentation of what I wish were true.

Preaching is my heart’s desire, my calling, and my vocation. I know you have callings and vocations that are important to you, and that’s our connection.

Have you ever been discouraged from how life was going, upset at your failure or bad performance?

That is a weakness in my flesh. I find myself tempted to find value in what I do and how good or bad I do it. And, even though I don’t want to voice it, my greatest insecurities surround my abilities to preach and make disciples. (Could a lead pastor have a more inconvenient weakness?!) 

Yet, God is so close to me in those moments. After I went home that afternoon and went to Him in prayer, He graciously reminded me of the truth: “It’s not about you; it’s not about you; it’s not about you. Your identity is not found in your performance or perception.”

He used my recent reading in Colossians to affirm these truths. My identity is in Christ... not my abilities or failures. What I do matters; but it doesn’t determine my relationship with Him.

He’s the Father I always needed. The Lord I could never deserve. The Friend who comforts and empowers me to believe and pursue the truth.

He speaks to me through His Word, and He speaks to my heart without words (Romans 8:26). He’s even humorous sometimes... I think it’s because He knows how much I enjoy laughter. 

This Sunday we will continue our study in 1 Corinthians 12. God designed us to work together, and I pray that He fills our hearts with joy as we receive His Word.

I love you, Grace.
Pastor Jack

You can't "one another" unless you get together

One of my personal goals is to strengthen how we build relationships in our church. How can we be more thoughtful and helpful to the people in our community who need Christian brothers and sisters?

Jesus left us three sources of help when He established the church: the Holy Spirit, the Bible, and one another. These are our comfort, power, guidance, instructions, and support for the Christian life. We need all three in every season of life.

Last year I suggested the book Sticky Church to one of the members of the Community Life Group Council, and our staff has read part of the book together, reflecting on one chapter a week. It opened my eyes to how important close Christian friends and “small groups” are in a church.

Think about all the “one another” passages in the Bible (there are between 46-55, depending on how you count them). In John 13:34-35 it says:

“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” 

We just memorized these two verses this summer!

So let me ask you, can we accomplish that on a Sunday morning within a one-hour service?

Paul told us to be devoted to one another, and honor one another (Romans 12:10). Can you do that without knowing each other?

Peter says to live in harmony with one another (1 Peter 3:8) and to offer hospitality to one another (1 Peter 4:9). This means pursuing peace, hosting, and serving one another. 

In Romans 14 and 15, Paul tells us to welcome and accept one another, yet still instruct one another. To the Corinthians, he encouraged them to wait for one another before they eat (1 Corinthians 11:33). To the Galatians, he urged them to serve one another (Gal. 5:13) and carry one another’s burdens (Gal. 6:2). In 1 Thessalonians 4 and 5, Paul inspires them to encourage one another. All throughout the New Testament we are commanded to forgive one another.

We just finished our James series; didn’t he prompt us to confess our sins with one another and then pray for one another? How can we do that with strangers? Don’t we have to become close enough to understand and love one another, including our faults?

The point is, you can’t “one another” unless you get together in smaller, more relational groups or settings. Community Life Groups are not the ONLY way to do that, but they are Grace’s standard method of helping those within our church body connect with other believers in a closer way.

[Editor’s note: If you are interested in joining a Community Life Group, come to Grouplink this Sunday at noon in the Fireside Room!]

We can’t be the church God designed us to be without real community. I encourage you to develop more intimate relationships with other believers in the church. Ask God to help you identify and maintain godly friendships. How can you be a good friend to others?

This Sunday Pastor Dave will be preaching on 2 Timothy 3. He, Jeff Reimer, and Ricki Greer are gearing up to teach an apologetics class at Grace on Sunday mornings this fall (I wish I could attend also!). 

I am praying for you, dear church. I’m glad to be brothers and sisters in Christ, uniting together for the same purpose: to love God, love people, and lead others to do the same.

Lovingly,
Pastor Jack

God is with us in the "wreck"

We were driving east on I-94 in Indiana, less than a mile away from the Michigan state line. The traffic was stop and go, and one of the lanes was blocked off. So it was a little congested. 

All of a sudden, the car in front of us slammed on their brakes. It’s a good thing that I'm a cautious driver. I had just enough room to stop in time. There was a moment of silence and of joy. “God, thank you that we did not hit the car in front of us.” As that prayer was rising up to heaven, a loud crashing noise and sudden jolt filled the van. At first, I was stunned. I realized that we had been hit, but all I could do was look behind me at the five children still safely and quietly sitting in their car seats. Ten eyes wide opened stared back at me with a look of confusion and fear. But they were fine.

I got out of my car and saw the damage. It looked like the Incredible Hulk punched the back of our van. If you’ve ever stomped on a can, you’ve seen the wrinkled look of metal. It’s not what I was anticipating for family vacation. Yet, this was my favorite vacation we’ve ever had. 

God intervened and gave grace in many steps on the journey.

First, if we had been in Michigan, our insurance would have skyrocketed. Michigan is a “no fault” state, and insurance coverage would have been a nightmare. Since we were in Indiana, the insurance of the person who hit us has taken care of everything. 

Second, even though I had to remove and pack our luggage without opening the back hatch (I have sweated more in the past couple of weeks than in a whole year), we were able to squeeze in the added luggage we brought home.

Third, our kids have been “tested” to trust God in a new way. They saw mom and dad deal with a frightening experience and watch God take care of us. We still made it to the Christian camp on time, and they had a blast.

Our van was drivable. Our kids were fine. The people who hit us had insurance. They admitted fault. Their insurance covered it. And we got to be a good witness to them as well. At one point the couple said, “...You guys are so nice about this.” What a tragedy it would have been if we made a fool of ourselves and our faith.

I’m grateful to God that He goes before us and promises to be with us when we get into a “wreck.” Whether it would have been my fault or not, God doesn’t quit being my Father who cares for me. He provided a wonderful vacation for our family, and I’m glad to be back.

This Sunday we will study James 4:13-17. James has a wise and sobering way of writing about our practical lives. I pray that God speaks to our hearts and matures our minds.

Galatians 6:9-10,
Jack Napier

The Meta-Narrative of the Universe

Some of my favorite childhood movies have been remade this year, and I admit that I’m anticipating my own comfy chair in front of the big screen. If I went, I’m sure I wouldn’t be alone. 

This same fanbase occurs with books and novels. Chronicles penned by the human imagination seem to be birthed out of a God-planted desire for storytelling. We don’t just want to hear it or see it; we want to experience it.

Human beings have always been mesmerized by a good story. That’s why movie producers are rich. 

But what else am I purchasing with a movie ticket? What kind of “tale” are they really telling?

You could say that the Bible is a “story”—the greatest story ever told. It represents the most invigorating drama that ever captured the hearts and minds of its audience. And it’s also the story I live to tell.

The first pages begin with the origin of the universe and the purpose for every living creature. Intense action covers thousands of years, depicting love affairs and wars and angels and demons. Within the storyline we find greed, jealousy, hatred, sex, betrayal, hopelessness, draught, famine, depression, and death. Some stories I cannot even share with my children yet.

Every scenario is portrayed with honest candor, sharing the good, the bad, and the ugly. The overarching plot pivots upon one character who was murdered by the scheme of lying men. And the climax hangs in our imagination as yet to be seen.

But the reason why the impact of the Bible is inescapable is because it’s true. It presents itself as a non-fiction book inspired by the very breath of God. Couple that reality with the fact that the Bible has endured the greatest scrutiny the secular mind has ever conjured. No attack against the veracity or reliability of the Scriptures has ever punctured a hole in its integrity. 

Only a fool would turn a deaf ear to the testimony of his Creator. 

The Bible stands in a league of its own. Undeniable, unavoidable, infallible, and unashamed of its content. Its followers champion the call to die to self, and still call it the Good News. In one sense, the last chapter has been written. In another, we don’t know exactly how the last days will unfold. The pages are ancient but alive, challenging us to examine our hearts and lives.

It is the meta-narrative of the universe. And yet, the whole account forces us to answer one ultimate question: “Who do you say Christ is?” It’s a record that draws us to a person—a relationship.

I may go to the movies this summer. I may be entertained. But I won’t be fooled. I know what my heart is hungry for. And there’s only one Author that satisfies my appetite.

-Pastor Jack

"This is the best day of my life!"

With tears in his eyes, at only six years old, he told us: “This is the best day of my life.” One day, I hope he knows it was one of the best days of our lives too. 

Russell, our second-born, made a profession of faith on Super Bowl Sunday (02/03/2019). It all began as a normal Sunday. I’m not that into football or the Super Bowl, but it was a great day at church, and we had plans to stay home and rest as a family. Like many Americans, we had pizza and Courtney made some dip for us to enjoy.

I turned on the game, not expecting to watch it. However, the game actually kept my attention. The score and teams always seemed evenly matched against one another. It came down to the last 2+ minutes of the game, and I wasn’t sure who was going to win.

Out of nowhere, Russell sat on the couch and said he wanted to ask Jesus to forgive him and that he wanted to be a Christian.

“What?! Now? Is this happening!?”

Before I could respond, he ran to his room. Now, I know I will be judged by some. But the truth is the truth; for a moment I thought, “Surely I can talk with him after these 2 minutes are up.” But of course, the Holy Spirit gave me that “really?” feeling, so I came to my right mind and followed him to the room.

He jumped on the bed and immediately began praying. It was as genuine a prayer as you could imagine. He asked God to save him from his sins, confessing that he believed Jesus died on the cross for him. It all happened in what felt like a brief second. He said “Amen,” and I just knelt in shock and wonder.  

You see, Russell had the knowledge that Jesus died on the cross for him, and he had said prayers before acknowledging this, but we had yet to see a heart change or any fruit in his life. I had been praying for months that God would give Russell a pure heart; that Russell would walk after God and follow Him all the days of his life. I had faith, but I suspected it would take decades for any assurance. God answered that prayer much sooner than I expected.  

After we went back in the living room, Russell hugged his mama and sat on the couch. I just stared at her in disbelief. Seeing the tears in my eyes, she knew it was real.

As we silently celebrated together, Russell shocked us both again. Within a minute or two of sitting back on the couch, he started crying real tears and said, “This is the best day of my life!” As he wiped away his own tears, we began releasing ours. This was a true moment of sincere humility and repentance.

I never did see the end of the game. I don’t remember who won. But that evening was a night I’ll never forget.

I don’t know what you’re praying for. I don’t know the odds stacked against you or your hopes. But I do know one thing: God is able. He is able to answer those impossible prayers. He is able to change a heart. He is able to move a mountain. Trusting in Him is always worth it. You never know exactly what He’s going to do, but you can always trust Him. I’m glad we did. And I’m eternally grateful that Russell did.

I love you guys and hope to see you this Sunday! We’ll be looking at James 2:14-26. That passage has a special place in my heart, and I can’t wait to share it with you.

God bless!
Pastor Jack

Stiff-Necked

I went to a chiropractor for the first time. I woke up with a neck that decided it wasn't going to turn anymore. And when I tried to fight against its will, I lost. 

I don’t want to complain or whine... most of my friends have been through this and worse. But it's my first time. And you know how the "first time" can seem intense.

Throughout the day I could barely look down or turn my head to the right. Depending on how I moved my arms, I got a shooting pain that stopped me in my tracks. The doc said it should get better; to call if it’s worse; and I met with him again two days later.

I realized throughout the day that it was a trial meant to humble me. God and I both knew I had ignored His "quiet voice" the previous day, I just wasn't bringing it up in prayer.

Do you ever have those moments where you try to pretend that everything is fine because you're not committing major sins? 

NEVER. WORKS.

Here's how it started: The morning before, I felt the urge to fast and pray. It was a normal Tuesday, but I really needed to seek God's face about some things. But instead, I ended up renting a movie to watch after the kids went to bed. To make it worse, I stayed up even later than that watching comedy (clean) and political videos online. What a waste of time! These are not bad activities within themselves... but I knew Jesus was asking me to fast and pray, and I decided to ignore the prompting. I was what the Bible refers to as, "stiff-necked" - pun intended. 

So I prayed in pain, realizing that I had some fessing up to do. I gave into the entertainment and food idols I’ve been flirting with since I was a kid. I don’t know why I constantly find myself going back to those empty buckets with holes at the bottom… I already know better. 

I know the difference between right and wrong, most of the time. But certain moments/days/seasons I feel extra tempted. Extra tired. Extra selfish. I've learned from older saints that I shouldn't waste time focusing on the temptations themselves, but ask God, "What is the root of this? Where am I not trusting you? Why am I not going to You instead?"

I'm glad He doesn't give up on me. I tell Him: "I'm really young in that area... always feeling like an infant. Would you fill me with Your Spirit, and transform my heart? I am a child. I am helpless. Would you help me? I know You're better than anything the world has to offer. Help me be honest... I can't do it without You." 

Amazingly, He wants to answer those questions WITH me. Even though I don't always know what to ask for, I am always grateful that He meets me in those moments, desiring to "process" my pain and addictions with me. He does not shame me or guilt me. He ministers to a contrite heart. He never turns away the repentant sinner.

My interactions with Him reminds me, “If He couldn't work with a sinner or saint needing grace, He wouldn't have anybody to work with.” That's not an excuse, just the truth.

It took a sore neck and chiropractic appointment to open my eyes. But I’m glad He gave it to me. I know it’s because He loves me.

I look forward to this Sunday. [Nathan’s note: Don’t forget to set your clocks forward an hour on Saturday night! Or, you know, count on your phone to do it for you.] We’ll be talking about temptations and the power of pleasure.

I’ll see you there,
Jack Napier

"Our Father in heaven..."

Amelia is only 3 years old. However, you wouldn’t know that if you took her shopping with you.

Allow me to elaborate.

Last Saturday I decided to take her with me to a major grocery store in Newton. She wanted to go on a “daddy-daughter date.” So, Courtney dressed her up and got her ready.

She looked beautiful. Her hair was brushed and put up, her outfit was cute, and she kept smiling and saying, “I’m going on a date with daddy!”

On the way there, she requested to peruse the toy section. I obliged, just happy she wanted to be with me.

But would you believe that it took us 25 minutes to even get to the toys! We could not pass a single endcap without her saying, “OHHHH!!! I really wanted to show you this!!!” Or, “AHHH! I always wanted to get this!” 

I listened to her talk (somewhere in the vicinity of 200 wpm) as she walked down every aisle of the shopping store, telling me every thought that entered into her mind.

And I couldn’t have been happier.

A passerby even stopped to tell me, “You are so blessed.” And she was right.

Now remember, this was a normal shopping errand to a simple store, 1 mile away from our house. Not a holiday. Not a birthday. Not a carefully marked date on the calendar. But for us, it was special. Very special.

Why? Because I love being with her. I love it when she talks with me and wants to be with me. I could listen to her share her heart forever.

The time we share is special to me. I wouldn’t trade it for anything. I love her, she is my baby girl. 

And I believe this is similar to how your Heavenly Father feels when you spend time with Him.

He loves you so much. He longs for those “regular, non-holiday, uneventful” times where you talk with Him. When you tell Him about your day and week and heart and thoughts. When you open up to all that is swirling around. 

I’m glad I get to share a little of my life with you in these staff journals. I know you love us and think of us often.

In the words of the Apostle John, “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children are walking in the truth.” (3 John 4, ESV)

May you walk with God, knowing that He is your Father in Heaven who knows and cares.

Matthew 6:9,
Pastor Jack

The Gift of Suffering

Courtney’s exact words as we lay in bed Tuesday night were, “I knew this day would come. But I didn’t think it would be today.”

We received the call that evening that her daddy, Ricky Ferguson, had passed away at home on November 6, 2018. It was not expected. It was not easy. It was not welcomed. 

We drove down to Mississippi the next day, and the following 5 days were emotionally exhausting. Our sleeping arrangements did not provide for much sleep, despite the gracious effort from her mom to host us during that difficult time.

I was asked to preach Ricky’s funeral that Sunday, an opportunity that I cherish. It was harder than I thought it would be, but Ricky deserved a funeral where family got to share from their hearts. We were glad to honor him. We will never stop loving “Pappy.”

We left the next morning (Monday) and arrived back to Kansas that evening around 10:30pm. The drive took us about 12 hours. Then it was back to work in the morning.

In the office at Grace, we have a scheduled daily “check-in” each morning at 8:30am. We quickly share our workload for the day, what we are grateful for, and what we are praying for, then we pray. Depending on the day, it takes between 15-30 minutes.  

That Tuesday morning, I could hardly speak without tearing up. I had just returned from a week of grief, tears, and relational expense. When it was my turn to share, I didn’t want to talk. Which, believe it or not, is not really like me (lol).

I was extremely grateful for the people around me... but I couldn’t share what I was truly grateful for that morning without breaking down.

I was grateful for suffering. I realize now as I write this how super spiritual that sounds. But that was the truth. Somehow God turned suffering into a gift right before my eyes. 

How can something that feels so bad be a gift? Well, I think it’s a gift primarily because of how horrible it is.

Let me explain. 

It’s so bad, you can no longer “coast” or pretend to be happy. You can no longer ignore reality. When you are in severe pain (especially emotional) you cannot tolerate polite clichés or “artificial sweeteners.” Superficial remedies are repulsive.  

Suffering drives me to Jesus. It forces me to choose whether or not I will rest in Him, find my strength in Him, and wait upon Him.

Suffering exposes my lack of humility, my weaknesses and temptations, and my dependence on the Holy Spirit.

Oh, how I need His help!!! 

James tells me that suffering produces endurance. And if I let it have its full effect, it will mature me. I will come to know the joy in suffering if I keep my eyes fixed on Jesus. 

This Thanksgiving, I hope you experience joy and sweet time with the people you love. I pray that God uses your gratefulness to encourage and inspire them. 

As for me, I will be giving thanks to God for His grace, His strength, the wisdom He generously gives, and His comfort in the midst of pain.

Happy Thanksgiving!
Pastor Jack

“The wettest, coldest, most cancel-worthy trip...ever!”

I signed up to be a parent chaperone for my son’s field trip. And let me tell you, it was some trip!

I actually began the day thinking they would cancel it. The plan was to explore a pumpkin patch with 1st and 2nd graders. But it was cold and rainy, and it had rained all week.

“They’ll send me a text or email if they cancel, right?” I mumbled to Courtney. But the cancellation never came. 

After driving to the school, we gathered together in the gym as the parents and little ones got ready to embark on the muddiest field trip you’ve ever imagined. Just before we got on the bus, a teacher who laughed at us and seemed anxious, gave us an eclectic group of umbrellas.

It looked like a pile of sticks taken from a dozen different trees, none the same size or design.

But the kids were happy. All of them. Each one full of energy and smiling as they awaited their “big field trip,” some going on their very first.

I prayed for the rain to stop as I sat in the back with my group of boys, showing them a map of the patch. They excitedly debated which ride or attraction we were going to hit up first.

But I knew something they didn’t.

There will be NO human gerbil wheel or bouncy pad if the rain continued... and the view outside gave no hope for that. It was grey, rainy, and COLD.

Our first exhibit was under a covered patio-like area with picnic tables. We heard a story of a square pumpkin that saved all the round pumpkins because he couldn’t be pushed around by the wind.

The kids enjoyed it. I was freezing, lol.

Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy a good story. But as soon as she said “he was the only square pumpkin,” I knew where it was headed. And it wasn’t toward a nice fire with hot chocolate!

Then we took a hayride tour around the grounds. It was still raining. My group of boys got the wagon without the nice side covering, so we got to enjoy the moist atmosphere even more so than the other half of our class.

But the kids were happy.

The teachers then decided to cut the trip short. “Let’s eat lunch, then head back.” That was a 3-hour departure ahead of time. No parent complained or objected.

My group never got to experience the human gerbil wheel, even though we did catch a glimpse of it off in the distance on our “waterpark ride.” We were wet from head to toe. NOTHING went as planned. 

But we had fun. Real fun.

On the ride back to school we played “sticks” and rock-paper-scissors. We laughed and got to enjoy new friendships with one another.

It was the wettest, coldest, most cancel-worthy field trip I’ve ever experienced, and I loved it. I got to meet some of Samuel’s classmates, teachers, and friends. I learned how to play “sticks” for the first time. I even held the champion title for 10 miles until a 2nd grader ruined my streak. But this story’s not about him.

And I got to sit on the back of the bus with my firstborn son. He even asked to sit with me... tear.

I rode back to Newton with another dad. We talked about life and he really encouraged me about an issue I didn’t have figured out. That in itself was an answer to prayer.

When I got home, Courtney asked how it went. She was undoubtedly expecting frustration and regret in my response. But I really had a great time.

I realized that when I think of experiences, I mostly think of relationship now. And my wet, muddy, cold day was full of new and encouraging relationships. And that made it great.

May God bless you with new relationships and times of fun with those you love.

I’ll see y’all on Sunday as we continue our study through Genesis. You’re not going to believe what Abraham does... again. But boy am I glad that God knows what to do with us when we don’t know what to do with ourselves!

Galatians 6:9-10,
Pastor Jack

Monk Mondays

“Help me, God, I don’t want to do anything today.”

I’ve noticed a new behavior in my life. Now that I’ve been preaching most Sundays, I find that Monday is not my “favorite day” of the week. And by not my favorite, I think “loathe” is a good word for how I feel about Mondays when I first wake up. 

I wake up slower on Monday. I move slower on Monday. I just want to get alone on Mondays and spend most of my time in solitude and silence like the monks used to do. 

Do you have a “Monk Monday” in your schedule? The tough day of the week or month?

Of course, I keep going. I drive the boys to the bus stop, and I’m at work in my office by 7:40am. I have the opportunity to join God’s Kingdom work, so I don’t really want to quit. But Monday’s start out rough.

God has recently shown me so much patience and kindness in my limitations. It’s like He wants me to feel tired on Monday so that I seek rest and renewal in Him. My temptations are to turn to food and entertainment for life and fulfillment (also known as “idolatry” in the Bible). 

Do you know the part of Jesus’ prayer, “and lead us away from temptation?” I’ve been thinking a lot about that recently. God wants me to ask Him on a regular basis to “lead me away from temptation.”  

Somehow, He has used “Monk Mondays” as a tool to show me how to turn to Him, and not ice cream or movies or whatever else is promising relief. 

On my weakest day, my hardest day of the week, He is creating something new in my life. When I don’t want to do anything, He is doing His sanctifying work in my life.

It’s actually Monday morning as I am writing this, so I feel especially grateful for His ministry in my life. My prayer for you is that you will sense His presence and joy today.

He loves you so much. He understands your limitations so well. May He lead you away from temptation, and toward His loving arms.

2 Corinthians 12:9–10 (ESV): But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong.

Galatians 6:9-10,
Pastor Jack

Prayers for our community

Our kids have officially started school for the first time. What a season! Other than the familiar struggles associated with “starting school,” I have been pleasantly surprised. The boys are doing well, and we know this is the right decision for this school year. 

I’ve also discovered new Christian families in our community. I’ve met so many great people, serving in other churches, all devoted to the truth revealed in God’s Word. Kansas is such a blessed state! This has inspired me to pray for the other churches in our communities with a greater hope and desire for their wellbeing.

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In case you haven’t heard, Pastor Dave Reimer is preaching at Grace on Sunday. God has gifted him as a great teacher and writer. What’s most noteworthy, he practices what he preaches. He’s a great example for the What’s True? What’s Real? What’s Next? model of living.

I’ll be visiting Grace Community Fellowship in Hillsboro, one of our church plants. I’m really looking forward to seeing what God is doing in their church family. They have a new building and a new lead pastor. We’ve got to keep praying for them! Our enemy is going to be working more during this season to damage their outreach. May God bless them and keep them.

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If you would, please pray for my growth. God is teaching me a lot about resting in Him and silence. I have a personal goal to talk less… lol. Other than exercise, I am working toward hearing God throughout the day in new ways. This journey has so many trails! Just when I think I’ve become acquainted with one “mountain,” I discover a whole new side.

Thank you for your prayers and fellowship in the Gospel. I love you all and pray for you often

Galatians 6:9-10,
Pastor Jack

Stains and Scars

Stop, Rest, Delight, and Contemplate

Why is it so hard to rest? How is it possible I could be falling asleep in the middle of something I find valuable, yet not be able to sleep at bedtime? When it's something important, my eyelids grow heavy, I blink extra long… maybe I'm describing your experience as you listen to me preach, lol. 

On the other hand, when I intend to quiet my mind and heart, immediately I develop attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Just recently I changed my weekly schedule. I realize that I have gone through a lot of transitions this past year and some of them put a strain on me emotionally and spiritually. It was hard for me to disconnect from work and connect with God. It was hard for me to be around my family, and even though I love them so very much and enjoy spending time with them, I couldn't feel at rest at home. I realized something was wrong. Not with them, but with me. So after the sermon from Genesis 2 on how the Sabbath Day is about stopping and focusing on God, I realized this was a missing element in my life.

God sent me another sign (I sometimes learn slowly…) through the ministry of Peter Scazzero (emotionallyhealthy.org). He identifies a Sabbath rest as taking a 24-hour period each week to stop, rest, delight, and contemplate God. It is not a day off, but a day given to God. I realized that I had not been resting well. So my new Sabbath rest is from Sunday evening to Monday evening.

This past Monday was my first try at this new schedule. I slept-in until close to 8 AM, thanks to my wonderful wife. I left the house around 9 AM… and if it were not so comical it would be embarrassing. I sat in the driver's seat of my car and didn't know what to do next. I looked around and laughed out loud because I couldn't believe where I was sitting. I genuinely didn't know where to go. I had made all these plans to go to a number of places to get some rest and delight and within four minutes of leaving my house, I felt lost in the church parking lot.

Nathan pulled into the parking lot. Walking over with a slightly confused expression, he greeted me through the passenger side window of my car and said, "So, this is your super secret spot to enjoy your Sabbath rest?" We both laughed. 

I'm a beginner all over again!

I left the parking lot and decided to head toward Wichita. I wasn't sure where I was going to end up, but I knew I needed to get away. Thankfully, God led me to a wonderful spot where I was able to enjoy rest and silence in the midst of His beautiful creation. One of the sweetest days I've had in a long time.

There was no wi-Fi, but the connection was amazing.

So, how is your Sabbath rest going each week? Are you enjoying the restoration of silence? Are you ceasing from your work to hear from God? I sincerely hope that you are. I know it can be difficult, but I don't know how we can manage through such a busy environment without setting time aside to quiet our souls and meditate/contemplate on God.

Galatians 6:9-10,
Jack

God is our help in times of need

It was like adding a surprise family member. After looking through the packets of children and praying, we made a final decision. We have now added David Llaveta Chambi to our lives and prayers! This little 5-year-old boy in Bolivia is loved by God, and now we get to be a part of that love. Maybe, just maybe, we will meet him in the near future. That would be something.

Sometimes it's intimidating to make a 12+ year commitment. But, after 5 children, I ain't scared, lol. God is the One who truly cares for me and my family. If you've ever experienced God's help in your time of need, you know what I mean.

I wanted to share a few pictures with you, all worth more than a thousand words (click on a photo to enlarge). God has really blessed my family with comfort and provision these past couple of months. Even when everything around is shifting and changing, He never does. His care never ends.

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This Sunday we’re going to sing "Come Thou Fount." It is such a sweet song for the heart that knows God’s help in time of need. In one of the lines we sing, “Here I raise my Ebenezer.” What is an Ebenezer if not a Scrooge, right?

Well, Ebenezer means “stone of help.” It comes from 1 Samuel 7, where God gave victory to Israel over the Philistines. He even restored cities back to Israel that were previously taken captive. That stone commemorated God’s help. Every time they walked by it, every time a little boy asked why this huge stone was placed between Mizpah and Shen, they could tell the story of when God came to the rescue after His people prayed and humbled themselves.

We all need those “stones of remembrance” in our own lives to remind us of God’s faithfulness to help us in times of need. Maybe it’s an actual physical object, looking back on pictures, or reading an encouraging card from a difficult season in your life. Whatever it may be, we do well to remember His faithfulness in order to gain strength for today and the days ahead.

I love you, church family.

Pastor Jack