Easter 2011 Recap!

Praise the Lord! Over 500 guests today in two packed services!! Double our average attendance and 200 more than our re-launch in Sept. 2011!! Red eye, google ads, sign and 20,000 fliers were effective, but like always family n' friends blew it up!! Most importantly over 40 decisions for Christ!! Great job Metro Praise!! Jesus is alive and moving!!

Here is the picture from the presentation, "Living Last Supper!" (Click pic for better view)


For followup we are having a "Family Fun Night" at church Wednesday April 27th at 7pm! Movie- "Prince of Egypt," big screen Wii games, and outdoor fun!


Also, we are starting a new sermon series for all of May, "Who is God?"

We hope to see you at these great events! JESUS IS RISEN!

Metro Praise is located at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day Before Easter, "Jesus Took Our Sorrows!"

Day Before Easter - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service on April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Jesus Took Our Sorrows!"

Not only did Jesus take all of mankind’s sins and sicknesses, He also took all of our sorrows. God the Father allowed all the sorrows and emotional grief of life to be placed on Jesus’ shoulders. Jesus Himself at the time of His crucifixion was given all the hurt of the world. Jesus could feel every emotional pain that’s ever been felt and will ever be felt in life… He took it all!

Jesus was the only person that could endure such emotional pain upon His soul. In doing so,
Jesus will forever be able to relate and understand everyone’s sorrows in life. When someone comes to Jesus to find comfort in times of emotional hurt, He can truly say, “I know how you feel.”

No one else on earth can ever say that. Only Jesus can say He knows about every pain and every sorrow in every individual’s heart. And He not only knows the pain, but He also has the power to heal and comfort those hurts when we take them to the Cross (Matthew 9:36).

Are in emotional pain? Call on Jesus, He is the Healer of the brokenhearted!

Reading: Isaiah 53 & Isaiah 61

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Good Friday, "Jesus Took Our Sickness"

Good Friday - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service on April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Jesus Took Our Sickness"

When God first created Adam and Eve, they were perfect and there were no sickness, but after they sinned suffering and death entered the whole world. Deuteronomy 28 teaches that mankind was placed under a curse in his body because of this sin and this curse is manifested as illness and disease.

This does not mean that when children are born sick or when someone gets ill that they are "sinful," but rather we all as human beings suffer from imperfection in our physical bodies because of sin, thus sin in our bodies leads to sickness, and some sickness ends in death.

When Jesus was being tortured and beaten by the Roman government, God the Father was pleased. Why? Because God the Father allowed the punishment and whippings of Jesus to purchase for mankind the healing they needed from their sicknesses and diseases.

Peter said, "He himself bore our sins' in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; 'by his wounds you have been healed" (1 Peter 2:24).

Mankind may not be able to fully understand how this happened, but the Bible clearly teaches that by Jesus’ stripes we are healed from all of our sicknesses. Today, anyone who is sick can come to Jesus and ask for healing and, if they believe and do not doubt in their heart, they will be healed!

Are you sick? If so, come to Jesus and declare your healing in His name and by His stripes- He is still a healer!

Reading: Isaiah 53 & James 5:14-16

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 20, "Jesus Took Our Sins"

Day 20 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service on April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Jesus Took Our Sins"

When Jesus was on the Cross, God the Father placed on Him all the sins of the world: past, present, and future. There on the Cross, Jesus took upon Himself all the evil things that have ever been done in the world; everything from Adam and Eve’s sinful rebellion to the last sin man will ever commit.

He took them all upon Himself. Because God the Father is perfect, no one can come to Him unless they first offer a sacrifice for their sins. Before Jesus’ death on the Cross, the sacrifice required was from an animal. The sacrifices had to be made often with many different animals. However, when Jesus came He became the “one-time” sacrifice for all times.

From that point on, if a sinner wants to be forgiven of their sin and accepted by God the Father, all they have to do is accept Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Jesus’ sacrifice on the Cross 2,000 years ago is all that’s needed to forgive their sins and allow them to have a new life. (Hebrews 9:14)

Have you been forgiven?

Reading: Isaiah 53.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 17, "Jesus is the Way"

Day 17 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Liar, Lunatic, or Lord"

Jesus said to his first disciples almost 2,000 years ago, “I am the way, the truth, and the life;
no one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). Jesus declared Himself to be the only mediator between God and man. After reading the words of Christ, one must come to one of three conclusions: Jesus was a liar, a lunatic, or Lord.

First, was Jesus a liar? Did He know He was not the only way to God, but rather chose to
deceive His disciples and receive self-centered glory? According to both history and
Christians, Jesus wasn’t a liar; He was a holy man who lived a good life helping people come to know the God of Israel.

Second, was Jesus a lunatic? Did Jesus suffer from mental illness and therefore He was filled
with self-delusion? Of course not, Jesus was a wise man. Even His enemies could recognize His authority and wisdom. Therefore, Jesus could not have been a lunatic.

Thirdly, was Jesus declaring His Lordship while on earth? Did Jesus really come to earth to
be the only way, the only truth, and the only way to God? Did He really predict and fulfill His
crucifixion and resurrection? Did He really claim to be God’s Son and the Judge of all the
earth? Yes!

The whole Bible, church history, and even many non-Christian witnesses all declare this to be
true. Therefore, the only real intelligent option left is that Jesus was really God in the flesh, the
Lord of Glory. He was sent by the Father to be the only mediator for mankind’s salvation, and
He meant exactly what He said and it is true what his disciples said about Him in the New
Testament (John 1:1-18 & John 3).

Therefore, I bid you to come and bow your knee before your Maker, believe in your heart, and confess Jesus as Lord. Turn from your wicked ways, repent of your sins, and live a life that is according to His commands- your eternal soul is at stake!

Reading: John 10 & 14.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 12, "Crown of Thorns"

Day 12 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Crown of Thorns"

I was in a pastor's office the other day and I saw a very real representation of the crown of thorns Jesus had placed on his head. I was taken back by the immense size of the thorns. Immediately I went over and placed them in my hands and felt there strength. I was in shock on how thick and sharp these thorns were. As I was looking at them the pastor shared, "Every time I look at this crown of thorns I am reminded of the great love God had for me."

I believe we can so often forget what Jesus did for us 2,000 years ago. We can get so busy trying to win our own "crowns" in life that we forget He was crowned with shame and rejection- so we could receive forgiveness and acceptance. I pray we never forget what He did for us. I pray I never forget what He did for me.

Here is the picture:


Oh, how he loves us!

Reading: John 19:1-3 & Isaiah 53:2-4.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 11, "Never Give Up"

Day 11 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Never Give Up"

When Jesus was finished praying that night on the Mount of Olives He was ready for what awaited Him. He knew there was no turning back, He was born for such a time. The angels had spoke their last words to their Master. The only friends He had supported Him as much as they could. The time was now upon Him. The sound of soldier's armor filled His ears, palms began to sweat, breaths got deeper, and a smile came upon His face looking at Judas as He called Him friend.

Within a matter of moments the Creator of the universe was in chains being led away to His death. "Punish Him" was the cry from the Jews. Punched in the face and mocked, sweat and blood was running down His face. No words could stop what was coming, so He did not defend Himself. Led away to the Romans to be tortured, Jesus hears the sound in the distance of His closet friend deny Him.

Morning comes with mockery and deep pain, everyone watches- yet no one can see what really is happening- an innocent man is dying. In front of the crowds Jesus is not chosen, rejected for a thief, He sees the hands of a king try to wash away his guilt. Shouts rattle the floor, young men trade their former plans with joy to see a crucifixion this day.

Clothes ripped off and His body is thrown to the post, cries turn to groans- groans end in silent agony. Muscle, tissue, and blood find their way to the dirt. Nerves exposed bring pain that numb the mind. The fainting is restrained by the beam placed upon the exposed back. He can't see through the tears for those who cheer. Jesus' feet do not feel the ground once walked, hands numb that once created. Dragged up the hill- the blue sky is the only reminder of this world. Someone carries what was always meant for Him.

Nails, hammers, and screams make the sun disappear. Jesus can hear mocking, laughter, but the oxygen is escaping His lungs- the heart is racing- legs burn- the crown of thorns makes blood stain his face. He slips down to rest His arms- His shoulders loose from their place- dangling between heaven and earth, Jesus said, "It is finished."

Jesus never gave up. Why? "For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart (Hebrews 12:2-3).

"Never Give Up!"

Reading: Hebrews 13 & Matthew 27.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 9 & 10, "Let Your Light Shine"

Day 9 & 10 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Let Your Light Shine"

Today, in the 21st century we as Christians live in a dark time. Abortion on demand, gross perversion, teen violence, divorce, addictions, idolatry, war, abuse, greed, evil entertainment, and false religion. Isaiah prophesied in Isaiah 5:20, "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter." God said a time would come when people would call "good" "evil" and "evil" "good." Plus, people would actually trade "darkness" for "light!" I believe we are living in those kind of days!

Paul also went on to say in 1 Timothy 3 after listing all the sins that would mark the end times, that people would be "having a form of godliness but denying its power" (1 Tim. 3:5). Therefore, we as the true disciples of Jesus Christ must stand up for what is true and what is right. We need in these dark days to shine for Jesus Christ with the light of the Gospel!

Jesus said in John 12:46, " I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness." Jesus was and still is the Light in this dark world. However, the light does not just remain with Jesus, He gave it to His disciples! Jesus said in Matthew 5:13-15, "You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house."

Thus, we need to do the following as "lights for Jesus" to "let our light shine!"

1. Avoid and Expose the Deeds of Darkness: Ephesians 5:11, "Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them!"

2. Walking in the Light: 1 John 1:7, "But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin."

3. Shine for Jesus Christ with Our Good Deeds: Mathew 5:16, "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

4. Show the World the Gospel Light: Acts 13:47, "I have made you a light for the Gentiles,
that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth."

It may be dark, but that just means the light can be seen that much brighter! Let your light shine! Be encouraged by the old Sunday school song, "This Little Light of Mine,"

This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine.
This little light of mine, I'm gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Won't let Satan blow it out.
I'm gonna let it shine.
Won't let Satan blow it out.
I'm gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Let it shine til Jesus comes.
I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine til Jesus comes.
I'm gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Hide it under a bushel - NO!
I'm gonna let it shine.
Hide it under a bushel - NO!
I'm gonna let it shine, Let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Let it shine over the whole wide world,
I'm gonna let it shine.
Let it shine over the whole wide world,
I'm gonna let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.

Reading: 1 Timothy 3 & 1 John 1.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Book Review of "Cross-Cultural Servanthood"

Overview: True Servanthood is a Must for All Ministers

“Cross-Cultural Servanthood,” by Duane Elmer is a powerful life changing book that is a must read for all those in ministry! The book centers on the context of ministering to different cultures and most of the examples come from the foreign mission field; however, the principles that are taught are so well grounded in the Word of God that they are applicable to all. Plus, since they are practical and usable in all contexts the book can be seen more as a lesson in “ministry” than just a book about “missions.”

Elmer powerfully hits the heart of every minster when he opens his book with the subject of “Servanthood.” He leaves no room for the reader to brush off his teachings by comparing themselves to his personal servant walk because he immediately makes it known, he is not even close to where Jesus is. Thus, he is simply sharing the truth as he sees it from the Scripture and takes the posture of being the “first” learner of his own writings.

The following quote from C.S. Lewis on pride and humility is soul shaking, “If anyone would like to acquire humility, I can, I think, tell him the first step. The first step is to realize that one is proud. And a biggish step, too. At least, nothing whatever can be done before it. If you think you are not conceited, it means you are very conceited indeed” (p. 29). With this straightforward approach to addressing the pride in the heart of ministers Elmer begins serving his dose of “humility medicine” to all who dare to continue to read on!

Elmer does a great job of explaining how the biblical writers actually invented a new Greek word to describe the kind of humility Jesus was living and teaching. The new word was, “tapeinophrosune,” which means, “a proper perspective of the Holy God we serve. proper perspective of self- defined by lowliness of mind, gentleness of spirit and meekness of attitude” (p. 29). The best illustration given of this definition of humility is seen in the attitude of Jesus as described by Paul in Philippians 2. Paul urges the people to “do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility (tapeinophrosune) of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves” (Phil. 2:3).

Central Message: True Humility and Servanthood

Therefore, with this foundation of humility built upon the true humility of Jesus the book begins to give helpful steps to take to have humility in ministry. Elmer gives a great illustration of his steps in the illustration of a circle with serving in the middle and the ways to get the true heart of humility pointing to it (p. 152).

The suggested steps to genuine humble serving are in the following specified order:

1. Openness: the ability to welcome people into your presence and make them feel safe (p. 39).

2. Acceptance: the ability to communicate value, worth and esteem to another person (p. 58).

3. Trust: the ability to build confidence in a relationship so that both parties believe the other will not intentionally hurt them but will act in their best interest, (p. 77).

4. Learning: the ability to glean relevant information about, from and with other people, (p. 93).

5. Understanding: the ability to see patterns of behavior and values that reveal the integrity of a people, (p. 125).

6. Serving (which can only be properly lived by having done first the above five steps): the ability to relate to people in such a way that their dignity as human beings is affirmed and they are more empowered to live God-glorifying lives, (p. 146).

Critique: Elmer’s Servant Leader Model

In conclusion to his book and after pages of great illustrations from the mission field solidifying the above points, Elmer disappointingly ends with a weak rebuke/encouragement to leaders. First, he tries to find issue with the term “servant leader.” Second, he takes the reader on a confusing contradicting lesson on leadership. And lastly, he admits he knew not how to write the following leadership sections, felt is was the hardest to write, and questioned to even include it- which he should not have- the book would have been great without it (p. 155).

Therefore, please note the following misunderstandings Elmer makes to leadership:

1. Lake of Biblical Precedent for True Servant Leadership: Elmer claims that “leadership” is really a modern invention (p. 156). However, he fails to note that the word and concept of leadership goes all the way back to Noah. Also, the word “leader” is actually used over 230x in the Bible! And it is used many times in the New Testament with a positive meaning, for example: Acts 1:20,15:22 & Hebrews 13:7,17,24.

2. Barnabas Over Paul: Elmer makes the same “romantic mistake” many “servant only guys” make. Meaning, instead of seeing Jesus as both a servant and a strong leader, he begins to force all leadership into a “mushy, non-confronting, always sweet as honey, type of minister,” which is very one-sided and not true to the biblical accounts. Therefore, he actually faults Paul in leadership because of Acts 13:13 in the rejection of John Mark (p. 166-7).

However, he seems to overlook the obvious affirmation of God concerning Paul’s leadership- the book of Acts and the New Testament! The book of Acts follows Paul, not Barnabas. The pastoral epistles are letters from Paul, not Barnabas. Lastly, Paul did call himself a “doulas,” a “bond servant” to Christ, however, he also believed in leadership and called himself an apostle in the very same verse (Romans 1:1)!

Personal Application: Metro Praise Servant Leader

(*Clears throat) Humbly speaking, as a church planter with a successful church plant in Chicago and over 120 churches in five different parts of the world I really loved the first two sections of the book. The first 155 pages of the book changed my life and reminded my of the times I read other great books on character like, “The Calvary Road,” by Roy Hession and “Humility” by Andrew Murray. Thus, it is from these pages I received the most insight and will apply it to my life and ministry.

Here are three things gained from Elmer:

1. Remember Humility is a Life Long Process: I really want to always be aware of C.S. Lewis’ quote and the life of Jesus as seen in Philippians 2. Thus, I never want to think I have arrived at being a servant like Jesus; I want to desire to always strive to be more humble in all I do.

2. Do All Ministry Remembering that Honor is Valuable: I do not want to insult or be “all-knowing” in ministry but rather seek to serve others as Jesus served them. I desire to honor the leaders God has placed over me and honor those God has placed under my care.

3. Be Open to Learn from Anyone at All Times: I really want to open my heart to have a “teachable” attitude wherever I go. Especially, when I do mission work- I want to learn from those God has placed in my life in the various countries and settings I serve in.

Easter Service Countdown- Day 8, "I Trust You"

Day 8 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "I Trust You"

As Jesus was on the cross in imaginable pain and torment, many people in the crowd were shouting insults at Him and mocking Him. Matthew records in chapter 27 verses 42-43 what some hurled at Him , "He saved others,' they said, 'but he can’t save himself! He’s the king of Israel! Let him come down now from the cross, and we will believe in him. He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him, for he said, ‘I am the Son of God."

They said, "He trusts in God. Let God rescue him now if he wants him." This insult is at the heart of Satan's attacks on every believer when they face times of suffering, "If God is really with you, then let Him rescue you!" Satan's attacks can become personal to your situation. For example you may hear, "If God is with you, then let Him give you a new job! If God is with you, then why doesn't He heal you! If God is real, why doesn't He save your lost family?" When you hear these attacks remember, "The devil is a liar and the father lies (John 8:44)."

How did Jesus respond? Shockingly, Matthew 27:46 records, "About three in the afternoon Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” (which means “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?”)." Did Jesus lose His faith? No! Jesus knew why He had come to earth. He had come to earth to be the sacrifice for the sins of the world. He knew the wrath of God for all sins was to be poured out on Him. And that specifically for Him, even the Father at a certain point would leave Him, because He cannot look on sin (Habakkuk 1:13).

However, this was not a surprise to Jesus, He knew from eternity past what it meant to be the "Lamb Slain," and yet He still choose to come on earth and suffer for mankind's sin (Revelation 13:8). Thus, the journey of the cross for Jesus was one of total trust, that even if the Father had to pour out His wrath on Jesus and forsake Him, Jesus trusted that God would still ultimately rescue Him!

There on the cross right before Jesus died, alone and having received the full wrath and punishment of God Almighty, he confidently said in a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commit my spirit (Luke 23:46)!" What Jesus was saying in our terms was, "Father, I do not see you nor sense you at this time, I know your full judgment and wrath are against me, but I still trust you. I commit all of who I am, to all of who You are!"

Jesus knew how to place His full trust in the Father's plan. I hope to inspire you by the faith of Jesus to trust in God no matter what you feel or see. Trust in God with all your heart, even if you think He may not be with- no matter what! Trust in God, trust that He is with you because he promised, "I will never leave you nor forsake (Hebrews 13:5)!" Thus, because of Jesus remaining faithful in the most difficult situation known to man, He now can promise to you that you will never be alone!

Can you trust God? Can you say no matter the situation, "I commit all of who I am to all of who you are." I pray you walk in full faith and trust in Jesus- He will never fail you!


Reading: Proverbs 3:5 & Luke 23.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 7, "Life is... Easy?"

Day 7 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Life is... Easy?"

Have you ever heard someone say after you got hurt and disappointed in life, "No one ever said life would be easy!" I am sure you have, I have said it many times myself. However, someone did say life would be "easy." Jesus said in Matthew 11:28-30, "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”

But how can we have a restful easy life when many things in life lead to hurt, pain, and disappoint?

First, notice Jesus is not saying our lives will be easy and without pain, as a matter of fact He actually taught the exact opposite. In John 16:33 Jesus said, "In this world you will have trouble." Therefore, Jesus knew life wasn't easy and would be totally hard and filled with trouble at many different times.

Second, Jesus gives an option to all people, (1) Carry your own heavy-troubled-hurt life by yourself or (2) Come to Him and let Him carry your heavy-troubled-painful life and give you a light-easy load to carry, thus give your soul "rest."

Third, Jesus said in John 16:33, "In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Thus, Jesus is not promising a world without trouble, but a help in times of trouble!

Lastly, someone did say life could be "easy!" However, it has to get hard, painful, and troubled first so you will not want to carry your troubles by yourself anymore, then with faith you can come to Jesus.

Five Ways to Live the "Easy Life:"

1. Admit When You Are in Pain: Jesus told you to come and confess your need for Him, acting like you can make things better on your own never helps, but only makes things worse (Matthew 11:28).

2. Come to Jesus in Worship: Instead of complaining and trying to "find God," simply worship Him and the Bible says He will seek and find you (John 4:23)!

3. Confess the Word Over Your Life: Make faith declarations like David did in Psalm 23. Say to your soul, "The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want! I will not fear!"

4. Get a Prayer Partner: Jesus said that when two or more agree on an issue it is settled in heaven, do not only rely on your prayers, gain the strength of another (Matthew 18:19)!

5. Rest Your Mind: Refuse to let your mind race at 50,000 thoughts a day with negative words and imaginations. Set your mind on things above and trust your heavenly Father (Colossians 3:2)!

Consider the words of God found in Isaiah next time you face a impossible situation,

Isaiah 40:30-31, "Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

Reading: Isaiah 40 & Matthew 11.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 5 & 6, "The Towel and Basin Ministry"

Day 5 & 6 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "The Towel and Basin Ministry"

At the "Last Supper" Jesus began to do something that was shocking and totally unexpected, He began to wash the disciple's feet. The normal person who washed the feet was usually the lowest servant in the house. However, Jesus took on this role of a lowly servant to show how much He loved His disciples. After spending some time in the villages of India I can begin to realize just how dirty feet can get in sandals. However, Jesus showed His great love for the disciples during that moment by cleansing their dirty feet with His own hands.

The Bible says that Jesus got a "towel and basin" to wash His disciples feet (John 13:4). The basin was the place the water was in and the towel is what was used to dry the feet. However, the primary tool used to clean the dirty feet was His very own hands. Jesus, the Creator of man in the Garden of Eden, used those same hands to wash the dirt off His followers. In a time when many Christian leaders- who themselves are God's creation, cannot wash feet, but desire to have their feet washed, I am convicted by this passage to become more like Jesus.

So often we as Christians see people's problems and wish someone else could fix it or help them, but Jesus took on the responsibility to clean His disciples' feet with His own hands. I pray that we in the church can have the "towel and basin ministry" of Jesus that is willing to be humble and loving to God's people and offer cleansing to all who need it. No excuses, no "passing of the buck," let us as Christians set the example of what it is to help others and help them get rid of the dirt in their lives.

If your reading this and you feel before you can wash another's feet you first need to be cleansed, then let me be the first to offer my services to you! I am here, like Jesus, to help wash your feet. You do not need to be ashamed of your dirt or try to hide it, simply come just as you are and let me use the water of the Spirit and the towel of God's Word to make you clean again in Jesus name!


Reading: John 13:1-17 & Isaiah 53.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 4, "Break Every Chain"

Day 4 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Break Every Chain"

I was listening to a powerful song the other day, "Break Every Chain," by Will Reagan and I was so blessed that I listened to it like a 100x in a row. Then I sent it to the worship band and they played it on Sunday and the house was filled with powerful worship. Today (Monday), I began to listen to the worship from the past Sunday and felt the power of God all over the song again. I then asked God, "Why is this song so powerful?" This was the verse God shared with me,

Luke 4:18-19, "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me, to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”

Therefore, when Jesus was on the earth and He quoted these verses from Isaiah 61 as His mission statement, I realized that Jesus' one purpose of "seeking and saving the lost" involved "setting the lost free!" Meaning, when Jesus finds that "one" lost sinner, he is a prisoner to his one sin and pain. Therefore, Jesus must "break every chain" off their life to save them and give freedom.

Jesus cares about your problems today. He wants to be involved in every area of your life. If you are not saved, Jesus wants to save you and set you free from your sinful nature and impart to you His nature of righteousness (Romans 6). If you are already saved, but still struggling in sin or sorrows- He wants to set you free (Romans 8)!

David described this work of God breaking every chain for the Israelites in the following verses,

Psalm 107:13-15, "Then they cried to the LORD in their trouble, and he saved them from their distress. He brought them out of darkness, the utter darkness, and broke away their chains. Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind!"

Call out to Jesus today and let Him break every chain in your life! Today is your day of freedom from sin and sorrow!

Enjoy the video:



Reading: Romans 6-8.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 3, "The One"

Day 3 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "The One"

Imagine you are Zacchaeus, a really short and wealthy man that is hated by all. Now imagine, you hear about Jesus coming to your city and you really want to see him. Would you be willing to climb a tree and embarrass yourself in front of everyone who already hates you? Well, that is exactly what Zacchaeus did (Luke 19:4)!

Now, imagine you are Jesus, God in the flesh- sent to save the world (John 3:16). You have crowds of thousands following you in the city and everyone is trying to touch you. You notice a small wealthy man in a tree just looking right at you with desperation. What would you say? Jesus told Zacchaeus, "I must come over to your house from dinner today!" (Luke 19:5)

Lastly, now imagine you are the disciples eating at a stranger's house who is hated by everyone. However, as he is eating, he gets so convicted of his sin and the way he has cheated people, that he stands up in the middle of eating and says, "I am going to give away half my possessions to the poor and I will give back 4x everything I stole!" What would you say then? The Bible has no words from the disciples because they were probably speechless!

This was just an ordinary day in the life of Jesus that had extraordinarily results. Why? Jesus lived by the principle of "The One." Jesus knew that there was rejoicing in heaven over just one sheep that comes back to the shepherd (Matthew 18:14). He was on a mission from the Father. Jesus' one purpose was to "seek and save that which was lost" (Luke 19:10). And that day, it was Zacchaeus' day! It was His chance to be saved and cause a party to irrupt in heaven.

What is your "one purpose?" Are you distracted by all your kid's hobbies, your job, and family vacations? Are you purposed to go on a great summer vacation, watch all your favorite shows, and support your favorite teams- and forgot about the lost? I challenge you today to make your "one purpose" the same as Jesus- "seek and save the lost!"

Jesus went after Zacchaeus, he was His one. Who is your "one?" Go after them and fulfill your one real purpose in life- "seek and save the lost!"

Reading: Luke 1:1-9 & Matthew 18:12-14.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 2, "Forgiveness"

Day 2 - This is a blog leading up to Metro Praise's Easter Service April 24th, 2011. The purpose is to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "Forgiveness"

As Jesus was on the cross of Calvary with 100's of people around mocking and cheering, His words were, "Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing (Luke 23:34). Can you even begin to imagine what this took for Jesus to say? I know that I could have thought of a thousand different things to say and not one of them would have been "I forgive you." In my anger I might have said, "I am coming back to send you all to hell!" "Wait until judgment day, just wait!" Lastly, "Father, destroy them all!"

However, Jesus does not talk or act out of anger and revenge, but love and mercy. He pleads with the Father to "forgive them." Why? Because Jesus said, "They do not know what they are doing." Really? It sure seemed like the Jews knew what they were doing when they got Judas to secretly hand over Jesus in the night so the crowds wouldn't revolt. It sure seemed like Pontus Pilate knew how to be a politician and avoid public dislike by being a man-pleaser. And certainly the Roman guards who were professionals at punishing men for their crimes knew what they were doing in torturing Jesus with precise detail and extreme pain.

Therefore, why did Jesus say, "They did not know what they were doing?" I believe it was because they could only see their actions within their own moment and immediate context. It was impossible for them to see the "bigger picture." For example, the Jews really did not know that Jesus was the Christ- they really thought He was a false prophet. Pilate really thought Jesus was worth sacrificing to keep the peace of the ultra sensitive-oppressed-volatile Jewish people. Lastly, the Roman soldiers really believed that by the time someone made it into their hands to be tortured and killed, that they were the scum of the earth and needed to be made an example of so the society they lived in didn't fall into the hands of thieves, robbers, and murders.

On the other hand, Jesus- God in the flesh, knew everything in exact and perfect detail. He knew that they had no understanding of what they were "really" doing. Just like Adam and Eve in the Garden at the time of man's first sin. They had no idea that actually eating the fruit was going to bring the curse of evil to all mankind. Therefore, out of love and mercy Jesus has been forgiving ignorant mankind of their sins from the very beginning.

Therefore, the question remains, "Do you forgive like Jesus?" Do you offer the same kind of forgiveness that Jesus gave you? When you are hurt by someone and rejected by even your closest friends can you say, "Father, forgive them for they do not know what they are doing?" "Father, forgive my abuser they do not know what they are doing is scarring my life." "Father, forgive the parent that left me, they did not know the pain that I would face as a child." "Father, forgive the cheater, the liar, and the criminal because they do not know how this affects everyone else."

As you remember Jesus and the cross at this season, please remember forgiveness, mercy, and love. Read carefully the words of Jesus in Matthew 6:14-15, "For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive others their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins."

Reading: Matthew 18:21-35, 1 John 2:1-2, & Luke 23:26-56.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641

Easter Service Countdown- Day 1, "The Nature of Christ"

Day 1 - I would like for the next 23 days before our Easter Service to give a short Word to prepare people's hearts for the next season at Metro Praise and to help all grow closer to Jesus.

Today's Word: "The Nature of Christ"

Most people do not fully understand that Jesus existed in heaven before coming in the flesh 2,000 years ago. He was known as the "Logos" or the "Word" in John 1:1 and as the "Son of Man" in Daniel 7. Thus, Jesus was God in the flesh, Emmanuel- God with us. Jesus was not 50% man and 50% God but rather He was 100% man and 100% God. Jesus, was unique because though He was God, He lived as man and was tempted in all ways like man, yet without sin (Hebrews 4:15).

The Bible also shows that Jesus walked and talked with man in the Old Testament. We call these visitations, "Christophanies." Some of the most known visitations are found in Genesis 18 with Abraham and with the three young men in the fire in Daniel 3. Plus, when studying the lives of the prophets Isaiah and Zechariah it becomes obvious that the one they are seeing is Jesus, God the Son (Isaiah 6 & Zechariah 3).

Therefore, when Jesus was crucified it was God the Eternal Son-the Word-the Son of Man-the Fullness of God in human form-and God in very nature... dying for the world in human flesh. I pray that you will be reminded of this great act on the cross when you consider your daily problems and pressures. God Himself became your sacrifice and salvation. God is forever with you and He will finish that what He has started in you.

I pray these words from the ole' preacher Athanasius (350 AD) will encourage you,

"The body of the Word, then, being a real human body, in spite of its having been uniquely formed from a virgin, was of itself mortal and, like other bodies, liable to death. But the indwelling of the Word loosed it from this natural liability, so that corruption could not touch it. Thus is happened that two opposite marvels took place at once: the death of all was consummated in the Lord's body; yet, because the Word was in it, death and corruption were in the same act utterly abolished."

Reading: John 1:1-18, Colossians 2:9-12, & Philippians 2:6-11.

Metro Praise Easter Service will be April 24th at 9am & 11am at 4323 W. Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL. 60641