Andrew Shelton w/ TONY NOLAN hair cut :)
For years, I loved the name Andrew and considered naming a boy if blessed to have one after that name. I also liked the sound of Andrew Graham. Every single time, Andrew is mentioned in Scripture he literally was bringing someone to Jesus. Quite a compliment! Plus, it is no secret that my hero on Earth (outside of my Dad) is Evangelist Billy Graham. It has been said you should give a child a name they can GROW into so I knew Hitler or Judas was out.
Ironically, I was born on President’s Day Weekend, February 20, 1972 and when God graced Ruth and I, with Andrew who was born on Inauguration Day, January 20, 2009, we just knew we had to go to one of our family favorites and name him after Abraham Lincoln. As President Obama was being “sworn in” Baby Andrew was coming out. Talk about “getting out the vote.” 
Andrew has taught me so much the past year and his sister, Hannah Grace has been a big help with him. She will turn ten on April 30! Children have a way of reminding us what is most important and Jesus was right when He said: “Let the children come unto Me.” Here are just a few quick lessons my son has taught me that apply to Life, Leadership, Love and Living for the Lord.
1) SIGHT - For starters, Andrew SEES the smallest things. The most important things in life are NOT things! Regardless, if it is a torn piece of carpet, or a bug under the bed; he stops, stoops and stares at his new favorite friend. He reminds me of God because the things that matter least to us mean the most to Him.
2) SIMPLICITY - Everyone kept saying it would be so special for Andrew’s first Christmas but this year he didn’t even tear open the wrapping paper. He was content playing with his old toys (that won’t last long). Hannah typed out a 14 page list this year and even told me where the sales were online. Amazing! We bought him a couple nice toys and he was happy playing with the most unusual objects. Linus has a “security blanket” but Andrew loves the drain plug from the shower and he carries it wherever he goes.
3) STEADFAST - Andrew is learning to walk and I have come to the conclusion that babies begin to walk when they grow tired of falling down. Perseverance could be my middle name and what I admire about Andrew is that when he has his mind on something he is faithful and focused. He could fall down 203 times but make no mistake he is determined to get up en route to growing UP! He sees obstacles as opportunities! We could all learn from a child’s curiousity, creativity and CAN DO attitude.
4) SWEET - Babies are sure sweet and Andrew is no exception. When a child smiles it not only melts your heart but makes some of life’s problems seem small. When Andrew smiles I think of God’s grace and that miracles still happen. Andrew is unassuming and he waives to folks regardless of race, social status and gender. His JOY brings happiness and hope to those who may be hurting and I have witnessed that he has a special bond with not only other children but senior citizens. Older folks not only resemble babies in the “circle of life” but relate to them in a most special way.
5) STRESS? The reason, I put a queston mark next to the word is because in Andrew’s world he has no stress. If he could talk he would say WHAT STRESS? The only thing he has to worry about is that someone will either give him a bottle or wipe his bottom. He has it made in the shade drinking baby lemonade (look out Ed Young, Jr). Plus, he knows that he can trust his parents (don’t tell him but honestly sometimes I don’t trust me). He knows his Mom & Dad will provide and if he can trust us than I need to trust God more. Some worry about a “checkered” past while others fear about their future pondering their next move as if it were a game of chess but Andrew is like a sports star “in the zone.” He lives in the moment and may we all do the same.
6) SHORTCOMINGS - All of us as adults and adolescents have our shortcomings. God has convicted my heart by being a parent to our two children and I appreciate God’s unconditional love to us as “kids of the King.” Watching Andrew walk is something to behold and I do it with bated breath. One area that he struggles with is he loves to hold on to objects in his hands as he attempts to walk. This not only hinders his balance but blocks him from holding on to something for support. In love, I have tried to gently free his hands from the trinkets in his hands that he thinks he “needs” so he can move more freely. The moment he lets go of the “trinkets” in his grasp he can enjoy the treasure of walking without hinderance or hesitation. Even as adults we need to learn the art of “letting go” in order for God to have His Way in our lives. It has been said: “Relationships are like milk. They are great in season but after the expiration date can hurt you.”
Andrew (wearing daddy's baby shirt)
Ironically, the President will give his “State of the Union” tonight and may we (regardless of political party) pause and take an inventory of the state of the union in our life pertaining to God, others in self. Perhaps we need to SEE what matters most and not stare at trivial things that in eternity will have no value. May we SIMPLIFY and extract things that clutter our lives and cloud our walk with Christ. May we be STEADFAST and be both prayerful and productive in what God has called us to do. Promotion comes after perseverance even in the dictionary. We need to press in to Jesus and press on for God’s Glory. We strain when we are STRESSED. One great way to eliminate that is when we worry more is when many worship less. WRONG! We need to worship in the midst of our worries and our problems decrease when our praise increase. Lastly, may we be wise enough to see the shortcomings in our life and humble enough to ask for forgiveness from God and remain accountable to others. Then and only then, will we be running on all cylinders when we as adults remember the lessons of Heaven enveloped in babies on Earth. May our “state of the union” be strong not just in political rhetoric but a personal reality.
THANK GOD for babies and thank God for Ruth, Hannah and Baby Andrew. Like that Ronnie Milsap classic: “What A Difference You Made in my Life.”
Travelling is not only part of my job but one of my greatest JOYS! My life resembles PLANES, TRAINS & AUTOMOBILES (literally). Travelling is not always glamorous but it is indeed God’s grace that I get to roll (much less FLY).
When I worked on Capitol Hill, one of the highlights for me was flying two days on one of the Presidential aircraft. On this particular trip, I was honored to fly on a Boeing 757 and it was typically designated as “AIR FORCE TWO.” More often than not, the Boeing 747’s are the primary planes designated for POTUS. The government purchased FOUR Boeing 757’s and frequently fly the Vice President, First Lady, Secretary of State and/or occasional Congressional leadership and Cabinet level staff. However, not all runways can accommodate the massive 747 jumbo jet so the President also flies on a smaller aircraft (757 and even Gulfstream jets periodically).
When I flew on one of the planes (757) in April 2000, we left Andrews Air Force Base in Clinton, MD and flew to Fort Bragg, NC and spent the night. I was blessed to sleep in rooms designated for colonels and above while armed military personnel and the United States Secret Service protected the plane the entire time we slept. The next morning, we left North Carolina first thing after smacking down on Carolina BBQ the night before and flew to Patrick Air Force Base in sunny Florida (Cape Canaveral). Ironically, that morning we landed on the same runway that the Space Shuttle returns home from orbit. WOW - tell me, I didn’t feel like Forrest Gump! Once again, a glorified goofball with the “Big Boys!”
The plane was big, bold and beautiful and painted white with the bright blue fuselage depicting “UNITED STATES OF AMERICA” in black letters. Truly, it resembled as President Ronald Reagan described: “The flying White House.” It is also one of the planes that our Commander in Chief flies on occassion and the fact is, if he were flying in a hang glider it would be considered: “Air Force One.”
Since leaving the perks, pay and prestige of politics and no longer employed with the government my main mode of transportation as an evangelist these days is Southwest Airlines. I LOVE Southwest for a couple reasons. For starters, they are cheap, casual, comfortable, courteous and convenient to reach most cities. But the best part - you get to pick your own seat (that didn’t sound right)! Honestly, both “Air Force One” and Southwest are “first class” when you are in the will of God. On one I was employed by the government but today I am empowered by God.
I love their advertisement that boasts: “You’re now FREE to move about the country.” The Bible notes in Romans 8:1-4: “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. For what the Law could not do, weak as it was through the flesh, God did: so that the requirement of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who do not walk according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.” In the Bible we find a BIG word called JUSTIFICATION. One preacher from days gone by correctly broke the word down as if to mean “JUST AS IF” I never sinned.
God replaces our guilt for His grace. Guilt makes one cower in the corner while grace grants courage to flat out FLY to new levels conquering old devils. Our sin cost God’s only Son but because He died we could live in this life and the one to come. When we find Jesus as our Savior, Sacrifice and Substitute - He enables through Salvation (like Southwest) to move about the Country and makes us a peculiar people with purpose, passion and purity.
Sin restricts but “who the Son sets free is FREE indeed!” The Bible notes: “While we were yet sinners - Christ died for us.” If that doesn’t give flight to your wings than you are carrying too much baggage (guilt). Sin is a rope tied way too tight. It is bondage that leaves one looking in the past and not with expectancy to the future. It is a weight that will hold you down emotionally, physically and spiritually. However, when we find forgiveness from God we are liberated to be, go and do what we were created. When forgiveness floods our soul we are free to fly to heights we only dreamed and true “success” begins and ends with faith in Jesus.
THE WORD OF THE DAY: “Why be grounded when you can encounter God’s great grace!” Today, trade your guilt for His grace, your shame for His Game plan and may you no longer be grounded on the runway of life but taxi, take off and tower with God’s power to SOAR like you never have before! The control tower has cleared you, the Captain has cleansed you and because of the rich, red blood of Christ (like Southwest) truly, you are now FREE to move about the Country.
frank & AIR FORCE TWO
The “Little Drummer Boy” Christmas classic is my all-time favorite. The first time I saw it on CBS, I was in elementary school and I cried. For the past three decades I have watched it annually and it still tugs at my heart strings. Yes, “Frosty” was good, “Christmas Vacation” with Chevy Chase is great, Rudolph, was grand but nothing captured the GOOD NEWS of Christmas for me like the wooden animated drummer boy.
We all recall the “Three Wise Men” whom brought “gold, frankincense and myrrh.” It is true, they came with their gold and gifts and arrived with their pagentry, pomp and prestige. They indeed came from a great distance to pay respect to the Christ Child as they followed that Star pointing them to the Son. I love that old adage: “The reason the Wise Men were “wise” was not because they brought Jesus their gifts but because they chose to be in His Presence.”
Enter the Little Drummer Boy. Without a doubt, I am convinced that this little lad who was reverently watching in the back of the barn starring at the crib of Christ knew He was standing on Holy Ground. Not because the world leaders were “in the house” but the “King of ALL Kings” was present and prophecy fulfilled before his very eyes. In that barn was both Divinity and Humanity wrapped in swaddling clothes. A babe yes, but also a Messiah in the making with a message to save Mankind. Christmas really is a story about God and grace.
In one corner of the room we have the Christ-child, a babe with piercing eyes, rosy cheeks and despite the chilly elements a flaw-less face and smile that was wider than Israel. In the other corner; in the back, behind the crowd is a poor lad, with eyes the size of saucers, filled with awe and amazement; his cheeks covered in grime and a hunger in his heart that was too much for any adolescent to know firsthand. This little lad whom was dirt poor and quite possibly an orphan immediately found acceptance in this Babe but he had no earthly idea that Jesus from Heaven was a “Father to the father-less.” Ironically, the “world” had “no room in the inn” for the Christ child that first Christmas morning but Jesus made room for a poor boy born on the other side of the tracks. This is the greatness and grace of God. He always makes room for us to have a seat at His table. Not because we are so good but God is so great. This is grace.
This destitute drummer was in awe. Not only was not used to seeing Divinity and Humanity collide but he was not accustomed to seeing the world’s power either; much less the Lord’s power! Especially, not in the same room. Sometimes we find ourselves in situations that deep inside we know we really don’t belong. The lad knew he was witnessing something special and I am sure that Satan, society and himself was encouraging him to stay in the back, remain silent and don’t embarrass anyone. He felt un-worthy and inadequate and probably believed that he had little to offer The King. He didn’t have gold or expensive gifts but he had a feeling that the King just steps in front of him wouldn’t mock him for his lack of gift(s). However, deep inside he knew that he needed to do something. When you are in the presence of God you cannot remain a spectator but we must graduate from the bleachers and become active participants in His Kingdom Work. At this moment, the little lad left the crowd and came to Christ. The lad realized he had a gift and thought: “Maybe I can play my drum for Him as an act of appreciation of HIs Birth?
Slowly, he eased from behind the crowd and ceased to exist and began to live and He played his beat up, broken down drum with battered drum sticks and played the best he possibly could. To some spectators it meant nothing but in Christ’s eyes it meant everything! God was touched not by his works but his worship. The lad truly “put feet to his prayers.” The drummer boy solitarily sent a clarion message to all; by boldy, yet humbly approaching the Almighty and he did what he did best. He played his drum. Surely, this was the biggest audience he had ever played. In the past, he played to anyone and everyone who would listen locally. He played to those on the street, those on the corner, those in the marketplace but tonight this young lad played before the Redeemer, royalty and even those in rags all rolled into one amazing audience!
Now he is playing before both representatives of earthly kings and “The King of All Kings” on one stage. At this moment, he is playing to eyewitnesses on Earth and God the Father, Angels and those peeking over the portals of Paradise. The Bible says: “If we are faithful in small matters we will be faithful in larger matters.” He played not just to them 2,000 years ago but this Christmas Season that poverty stricken drummer boy continues to play to us and his example encourages us to “play” our part in using our God given gifts in an act of service, gratitude and worship of our Savior.
If this young lad lived locally today; I am convinced he would have continued to “play” the same tune. He knew that the crowds may change but his commitment to the Christ Child would be constant and consistent. Regardless if he was “playing” in La Plata or Los Angeles, Dunkirk to Dallas, Waldorf or Washington, D.C., Solomons to San Francisco, Atlanta to Albany, Baltimore-Bowie-Boise or the Bahamas, Clinton, Maryland - Charlotte, North Carolina, Charlestown, West Virginia, Chicago, Illinois, Cleveland, Ohio, Cozumel, Mexico to Cairo, Egypt, from Fairfax, VA - Frederick, MD to Frankfurt, Germany/ Huntingtown-Hartford-Hollywood to the Holy Land, Jacksonville-Jamaica to Jummonville, New York-New Jersey-New Hampshire, Richmond to Raleigh, Tampa - Tupelo to Tuscaloossa, Miami-Memphis-Monterey-Myrtle Beach back to Maryland, Upper Marlboro or the Outer Banks; his music, mission and message would be identical as when he first starting playing: “Promote God and point as many people to Him as possible.”
The lad never really desired to be “seen” but he knew he had a message and a song that needed to be heard. Ironically, the boy had been playing his drum all along but on this night the audience was a little larger. The stage was now wider and the stakes were higher but he “nailed it” because he knew it was all about Him and because of God’s great grace.
When he stepped forward and played his gift at that moment “all eyes were on him.” But he knew that the attention was not really for him or a result of him so he continued to focus his eyes on Him, the Christ Child. It is true that when we promote Christ; He promotes us. God elevates those that exalt Him.
In the chorus of the “Little Drummer Boy” I love that line: “I played my drum for Him….ba rum bum bum bum.” My favorite verse is “The King smiled at me……ba rum bum bum….me and my drum.” What caught the attention of Almighty God and the angels in Heaven was when a dirt poor shepherd boy gave God all that he had. The song doesn’t imply that Jesus smiled at the wealthy, Wise Men bearing gifts of gold given to God but the song says the Savior smiled, Babe beamed, God grinned, the Lord laughed, Christ cooed and joy came to Jesus when the boy gave his ALL to the Almighty.
Just like the wealthy in the sanctuary who gave out of their “abundance, wealth and surplus” the Wise Men gave extravagant gifts but they still had more in reserves and they didn’t give their all. Like the widow who threw in ALL she had in the offering plate so did the lad who loaned his lunch to the Lord when God fed five thousand and this is true of the Little drummer boy. Something special always happen when we give our all to God. I love that quote: “God is not interested in our ability or in-abilities but our avail-ability.” What is amazing is that we are not only in the Presence of God with a front row seat when we give our best but we are used by God in His Grand Plan. We are partners with the Prince of Peace, Laborers with the Lord and soldiers/servants of the Savior. The greatest thrill in life is being a pawn in God’s Hand on His chess board as He strategically moves us at His leading.
Once we have been in the Presence of the King we are never the same. We are forever changed. Once we see the King firsthand; our actions change, our desires change and our reason and purpose for living change. I learned early in life, that we don’t have to be the best, or bring the best but it is imperative that we do our very best! It has been said: “Your life is God’s gift to you but what you do with your life is your gift to God.”
Looking back the boy never got into it for the crowds but for Christ. Not for attention, acceptance, applause or approval but an act of adoration to the Almighty. Rewinding the reel of his resume he was ministering all along and even the “smaller venues” were just as important in God’s eyes. Yet, all of his early marketplace concerts, corner crusades and small town recitals were preparing him for this one moment. An audience with The King.
The Little Drummer stood Face to face with God and gave his all and used his God given gift for God’s Glory. One day and possibly one day soon we also will stand before God and give an account for what we did or didn’t do with our gifts. The Bible says: “To whom much is given much is required.” That verse has been imprinted on my heart since elementary school.
In 1982, at the age of ten I was at Vacation Bible School and had a enormous burden for my lost friends without Christ. I wanted everyone to come to Jesus before it was eternally too late. I was thinking: “What will my friends think? What if they don’t respond? What if they reject me or reject Jesus? Will they still invite me to play sports with them, etc?” At that moment, I felt like God said: “Frankie, there is a Heaven and Hell what are you going to do?” At that moment, I elected then and there that I cared more what God thought of me than what my friends would think of me. I cared more for their precious souls than my personal popularity. Well, that week at Vacation Bible School I started calling friends and inviting them to come to church. At the end of the week, I had 22 first time visitors (at the age of ten).
The Little Drummer Boy’s goal was never really to be before the popular, powerful or prestigious but he played for the Prince of Peace, the Christ Child and he knew that the Babe born in that broken barn was worthy. He knew personally that God was worthy of his ALL.
Sometimes as a travelling evangelist; I stare out an airplane window, stretch back in my coach class chair on a train, sipping coffee from Starbucks or kicking back at a rocking chair at Cracker-Barrel (my favorite restaurant) and I wonder if the little boy with his drum realized how far God had brought him? Without a doubt, I believe he realized two things: It was because of God and for God that he played from day one. Also, it was because of God’s grace that the doors of ministry had opened, met folks from all over the world and to the very end he was still “playing” for Jesus. Plus, he never forgot that the biggest “star” would always be the SON!
Today, I thank God that he uses “broken” people to bless others and I am extra thankful that God saw fit to use imperfect people to promote His perfect Son. God truly uses the “foolish to confound the wise.” One of my life verses. The beauty about this little lad is that he was “playing” his drum for God’s glory. We never know the rest of the story but I am convinced that if we pause and listen closely, blocking out the “hustle and bustle” of Christmas you can still slightly hear the beat of that boy’s drum today. Friends, when we are in the presence of the King everything changes. People may mock you, Pharisees may question your motives and pundits may make false media about you but you but one cannot be stagnant once standing before the Savior.
I would have loved to attend one of his concerts after playing before Jesus that time. The precision and power on that lad’s life must have been AMAZING! He was both appointed and anointed! It was not a “performance” but from a personal place now lived out in public. Deep in my spirit, I am convinced that wherever and to whomever that boy ministered he knew God was watching and his gift to THE GIFT was from God.
God was watching while he played to individuals early on, viewing Him before small crowds on the street corner, and staring at him Face to face as the boy played before Him in Bethlehem’s barn-like edifice. Years later, God is still watching and I am sure He is still “smiling.” For him, from Day One it was always for an Audience of One.
Christmas is just a holiday for those that don’t know Christ. However, Christmas is not just a mere holiday but a Holy Day and it is every day for Christian believers. It has been said: “You will never find Christmas under the tree but on the tree of Mount Calvary.” That little Babe born naked in a wooden crib grew up to be the sin-less Savior who died naked on a wooden cross. Indeed, there was something special and “holy” about that day when Jesus was born. Christmas is certainly about giving but it is also about receiving Christ as our Saviour, Sacrifice and Source of Strength.
I love that song by Andre Crouch: “Soon, and very soon. We are going to see the King.” Like never before, I long to see Jesus. As a child I used to stare towards the Heavens looking for Santa with a sleigh led by a red nosed Reindeer. Today, my gaze is on God, my sights set on the Savior, concentrating on Christ and I am looking for the Lord because He (not Rudolph) is the Light of the World.
Truth be told, we all have a gift. We can use our gifts to bring others to God’s Presence. The Bible says: “Whatever your hand finds to do make sure you do it for God’s Glory. Friend, if you are a mechanic…..change carbuerators for Christ. If you are a dentist….do root canals for the Redeemer! God is not interested in the title on our door as much as He is with our testimony in our hearts.
This Christmas Season, as snow sticks on the sill of your window while listening to Nat King Cole sing his classic Christmas carol, trading cookies, wrapping presents and tucking your loved ones in for the evening may you pause and consider the true majesty of the ocassion. Even today, 2,000 years later; God allows us to peek into His crib, ponder His cross and point blank come Face to face with the Christ Child.
In closing, Christmas is special that the God of the Universe came to Earth to teach us how to live. Christ taught us how to live but we because of our sin and selfishness taught Him to die. What is even more marvelous is not that Christ came once but He is coming back! That Christmas morning Jesus was a gentle lamb eventually led to the slaughter. The moment he rolled out of the crib and took His first steps He was already en route to the cross. However, when Jesus returns again He is no longer the little lamb but the Lion of Judah.
The word “mas” in Spanish means more. Truly, we need more of Christ this Christmas. This Christmas Season give God ALL that you got! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Folks stop me periodically and say: “Frank, I love Jesus, I am going to Heaven but I don’t feel obligated to go to church. What do you think?” Perhaps you have had heard a similar statement too. Some suggest salvation is enough. Well, before I answer let me remind you what God says on this subject. He is the Authority (not me or others in ministry).
The Bible is bold and crystal clear about church attendance: “not forsaking our own assembling together, as the custom of some is, but exhorting one another, and so much the more, as ye see the day drawing nigh.” Salvation is found by faith in Christ alone and we can add nothing to or subtract from to gain access to an eternal Paradise with God. However, church attendance should go hand in hand as kids of the King! If you are in a marriage and never eat a meal with your spouse except for the night of your wedding you are struggling to say the least.
Iron sharpens iron and it is imperative that we trust God together and be encouraged by one another. The local church exists from an outline I borrowed years ago from Dr Adrian Rogers: Exalt the Savior, Encourage the Saints, Evangelize the Sinner and remind all to Expect the Son because Jesus is coming back! We find many reasons why we should worship together (especially in these dark, difficult days). Here are just a couple:
1) God’s PRAISE: The Lord is worthy to be praised. If we can sit in the snow cheering with 82,000 fans at a football game we most certainly need to applaud for the Almighty, cheer for Christ, root for the Redeemer and give a standing ovation for our Savior! Give me a “J” - give me a “E” - give me a “S” - give me a “U” - give me a “S” what does that spell: JESUS! When we worship the Lord in our mess - I have found after the preacher’s message many times my problems dissapear and I see Christ more clearly. We need to be together to encourage one another, be a blessing to one another and weep with those who weep and rejoice with those who rejoice. Truly, it is good to be in the House of the Lord.
2) God’s PROTECTION: The above video is powerful. No church membership (or lack of) will forfeit your access to Heaven but you are isolating yourself like an island when you choose to face life alone and not with the help of God and His People. We resemble the zebra in this video and Satan is a “roaring lion, waiting to devour and destroy” anyone and anything in his path. We are an open target when we fail to move with the Body of Christ. By God’s grace the zebra made it but most would not be so fortunate.
3) God’s PRAYER: It took me awhile but I have learned a couple things about prayer. First, it is a privilege to speak to Father God. The President may not know me but God does! Secondly, prayer is more me listening to God than me talking to God. Third, prayer gives me peace, purpose and power. You will never lose your footing when you have been on your knees. When we kneel before God - we can STAND before any man. We find courage with prayer. It has been said: “Seven days without prayer makes one WEAK.” Jesus noted His House was a place of prayer. Without question, I gain great peace with prayer but the beauty of hearing the petitions of other people’s prayers thrills my heart and I know touches the Heart of God. The irony is that God prays for us. Jesus told Peter: “Satan desires to sift you like wheat (translation: Kick your butt, embarrass you and put you six feet under) but Jesus goes on to say: “But I have prayed for you” to basically be a VICTOR not a victim. Sadly many in society worshipping lifeless gods chasing false religions pray to a god that can’t hear them and I have a God who not only hears my humble prayers but prays for this glorified goof-ball! As Ric Flair would say: “WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!”
4) God’s PEACE: Sure, God can speak to us as individuals but He often gives a relevation to others that will benefit the group. When one is down the others may be up (vice versa). Satan wants to make you think that you are the only one going through tough times. When you are isolated and alone you are tempted to buy that lie. When we are surrounded by the saints of God we find not only protection but peace in the process. Many folks have endured what you may be facing. We find great comfort to think we are not weird, wrong or weak while “waiting on the Lord” in a fallen world.
5) God’s PURPOSE: We exist to worship the Lord by our life and lips. A boat can get off course easily and when you worship alone you may miss the mark. Christians are to love each other (even when feeling un-lovely). We graciously rebuke when one is wrong and we politely point back to Christ our Compass when we wander off course. Water, waves and intense weather have a way to lead us away from God’s assignment. With numbers we find safety, solace and our schedule. We must report regularly for our orders to go where God says go and be all He desires us to be. The Lord is our Lighthouse and God is our guide but He uses the church to help steer us to the Promised Land.
5) God’s POWER: We tap into God’s power when we are with fellow believers. Sports teams have been known to be down three quarters of a game but when the momentum shifts they turn the tide and win! In these last days, we must assemble as often as possible. Church attendance doesn’t equal SALVATION but it does help with our SUCCESS. The church has taken some shots over the years. Her sail is torn, the paint has peeled and the bow at times looked broken. But the blessing (like that Ray Boltz classic) is the Anchor Holds (though the ship’s been battered). The Anchor holds though the sails are torn. I’ve fallen on my knees, I’ve faced the raging seas but the Anchors holds despite the storms!”
6) God’s PROVISION: God often uses OTHERS to bless you! There is power in numbers and folks with no finances can find a helping hand to those down and out. Folks with no food have been known to find help to feed hungry stomachs at home. Those with no shelter have found place to lay their head in the midnight hour. Those seeking employment may bump into a job recruiter teaching a Sunday School class. Those trying to sell a house may have a member in the church who works for Century 21. The fact is when we cease to assemble and worship at the church we often hinder our chances to see God work in our midst.
Lastly, we remember God’s PLACE: He is in our heart but Heaven is our Home. Sometimes, when alone we forget where we have been but also where we are going. We are pilgrims passing through. We are adopted to the Family of God and because of His great grace we are kids of the King. If you own a business or minister at a church -Remember, we are out to build His Kingdom not ours. I love the fact that KINGdom has “King” in it. Christianity, Christians and Church is always about Christ. Its ALL His and may we like Jesus at age 12, be about our Father’s Business.
By attending church we worship, fuel our faith, get a glimpse of God’s Glory and remember we are winners not wannabees because we are on the winning side. Christ is our compass and fellow Christians cheer us on to remember Heaven is around the corner. This week if you haven’t been to church in awhile visit a Bible believing, soul saving service this Sunday and you will encounter God’s Praise, Protection, Prayers, Provision, Purpose, Power and may we see your FACE in His Place (church & Heaven).
It is hard to believe but it was eight years ago today that America was knocked to her knees. Ironically, I had just flown back to Capitol Hill, the day before the attacks from preaching in Florida. I was also on staff at the Republican National Committee and I was raising funds for the GOP and on the phone with a donor trying to promote President George W Bush’s message on September 11, 2001, when a senior citizen told me a plane had just hit one of the Twin Towers in New York.
Less than 20 minutes later, another donor on the phone told me another plane hit the tower and I thought that they may have got the story wrong and it was the same plane. Instantly, I knew then that we were at war. Our office was one block from the United States Capitol Building and we were evacuated. That is one day I will not soon forget because we literally thought planes were falling out of the sky (especially, now that the Pentagon was on fire).
One year later, I was flown to Sullivan, Indiana at the invite of a couple pastors and churches of various denominations and was given the privilege to preach to a packed crowd at the one year anniversary on 9-11. It was also aired on radio all over the state and when I finished they gave God a standing ovation. The roar from the crowd was almost defeaning and even on tape it sounds like thunder. God gets all the glory but one of the privileges I have enjoyed as a preacher of the Gospel and my background with politics is that when society is hurting. God has allowed me and many others to offer comfort and peace in the midst of confusion and pain.
My message was entitled: “ATTACK ON AMERICA: Fear vs Faith.” The terrorists when they hit the Twin Towers were sending a symbolic message that they were out to destroy us financially. When they considered hitting The White House or U.S. Capitol - they were trying to relay a message to destroy us politically. When the plane hit the Pentagon that was to embarrass our military. However, what they really wanted to do was run a plane at a local church or National Cathedral because what they despise most is our faith in Jesus Christ.
Evangelist Billy Graham eloquently shared with the world: “The terrorists may have torn down our walls but our foundation is in tact. Our faith in Christ allows us to build and re-build.” We were down but not out. That day we saw some in society act at their very worst. However, countless Christians and concerned citizens around the Globe also came together showing acts of kindness in the very best spirit of mankind. Only God can bring triumph out of tragedy.
The truth is our security as a Nation comes only from the salvation offered by Jesus. Our hope is in Him and not ourselves. Ironically, the numbers 911 are the same numbers we are taught as children to call in case of an emergency. That day our strength was not in ourselves because we were gasping for air. It was not in our communications because phone lines were shut down. It was not in our finances because the banking system came to a halt and the lives that died that day reminded us all that the soul of man is more valuable than stocks and bonds. Our own President was diverted at the instruction of the U.S. Secret Service to fly away from Washington, DC. Our hope was and still only found in the Person and Power of Christ. No one would have ever bet that the massive Twin Towers would ever have crumbled to the ground before our very eyes. However, what we can see is temporal but what we cannot see is eternal.
Today, I pause and pray for the victims family who suffered such loss then and today still learning to live without their loved one(s). My friend, Tammy Trent (who tours with WOMEN OF FAITH) also lost her husband that day on 9-11, but she was overseas on a missions trip when he died while snorkling. As America was crumbling back home, her world was also coming apart. In honor of her husband, Trent who also passed away eight years ago today, I would like to encourage you to click VIDEO on my left side bar and listen to my past interview with Tammy sharing her amazing story of God’s grace in the midst of life’s storms. Below is one of my all-time favorite songs: “God Bless America” by Lee Greenwood. It is great to listen any time of the year (especially today).
God spared America that day and He continues to bless us more than we deserve today. Regardless of your political background, race or gender I would encourage you to pray for our President, pray for our Congress, public servants, our soldiers fighting for freedom and celebrate with humility that we still live in the greatest Nation on Earth. God bless America and as Americans may we live a life that blesses God.
FRANK TV - Bringing the Word to the world
On one program I was asked: “Frank, what is the greatest cancer in Christianity and in ministry?” That is a great question and I had never been asked that before. Since it was a subject I wasn’t prepped nor prepared for the Holy Spirit gave me a word. With the whole world watching I replied as cool as a cucumber: “If you had asked me 20 years ago I would have replied either infidelity or immorality but today I would have to say “INSECURITY.” The host said: “Please explain.” I shared with him: “Sadly, I am afraid that professional jealousy is killing us because we are so busy criticizing and competing with the “saved” minister and ministry next door that we have taken our eyes off the “lost” and we are all losing for it.” Ironically, I got a standing ovation from the studio audience. Go God!
It had been brewing in me for a couple years but God enabled me to strike a chord and perhaps light a match that many when they take their ministerial masks off realize I am not only right but we need a revival desperately among the leadership of the Church. It is a fact, if we will ever see the Lord and witness the revival that so many say we long for we need to die to self, live for the Lord and implement the gifts of others even at our own expense. It is imperative that we are mindful that our “success” is found not in our performance but Christ’s acceptance of us.
Too many are in ministry today and view it as a “career” and not a “calling.” Those that have a career have a job but the calling brings JOY! For those employed with a career are fearful that someone could be smarter, stronger and more successful among the saints. Those empowered by Christ and His call are free to promote others without worrying about losing ground, face or their job!
Before I go further, I want to remind readers that this post is not to blast all pastors but carefully warn of the dangers when we are not being Spirit-led and let insecurity hinder us from helping grow God’s Kingdom. Just like one “bad” cop, teacher or politician doesn’t mean that all in that line of work are guilty. Pastors are some of the finest folks that I know, but after criss-crossing the Country the past two decades and being in literally hundreds of churches and meeting multiplied thousands of pastoral staff; I am just reporting in love but boldness too many are afraid of someone else sharing their God given gift to bless the church where they serve. My dear friend, Dr Herbert Fitzpatrick and my home Pastor Marvin Harris are two of the pastors who have constantly brought in powerful preachers and gifted artists and our church was better for it. They both opened up a whole new world for me to learn from gifted orators, sold-out servants to the Savior and I wanted to become what they brought to the table to minister to the masses.
Some preachers (youth ministers included) are tempted to think if I bring one of these people to minister they may like them more than me. That is both an honest thought and its because we are all human. But the more we love and live for God we must constantly be willing to die to self so we can be ALIVE in Christ. This is the heartbeat of this entire post (not to destroy pastors) but to expose the cancer of envy, jealousy and insecurity prevalent in our congregations. When Pastor Fitzpatrick (who serves on Board of Advisors of Liberty University) and Pastor Marvin Harris brought in tons of talent over the years, I am sure one or two members had the audacity to say: “Preacher, why don’t you preach like so and so.” Even in joking, those comments should not be stated personally or privately. But the remaining 99% members held them in higher regard not only because they contacted them but connected to bring them to our country church. When we utilize the talents, wisdom, gifts and personalities of others the Body of Christ runs more effectively and on all cylinders.
For far too long, the Body of Christ has been so shackled with our own flesh that we have almost ceased to “fight the good fight of faith.” It was wisely said: “If you are the sharpest or smartest person in your group. YOU NEED A NEW GROUP - or at least re-GROUP.” Leadership can be both lovely and lonely. However, true leadership surrounds self with spirit-led and more successful, senior saints without feeling threatened by folks with way more talent, drive and wisdom. It is true in politics, business, sports and almost every arena in life. However, what is heart breaking is the lack of leadership in the Christian Church. Many in ministry not only “wound their own” but try to hinder folks from growing to the next level with the Lord (yet, they call themselves “life coaches.” How about we get back to being preachers of the Most High God.
This will ruffle the feathers of some but it is true: “If the shoe fits wear it.” God didn’t call me to a popularity contest - I won that back in grade school. The stakes are higher here (Hell is real) and because I was blessed early on to reach certain heights personally, professionally and even with popularity; I can risk and even relish in the fact that the truth is more important than playing it safe, being “politically correct” or complacent, comforming and casually committed when Christ called us to be a champion, courageous and confident.
This is where I start sounding like Andy Rooney from “60 Minutes.” He is famous for noting: “Have you ever noticed……….” Honestly, I have witnessed a sad trend in ministry the past two decades I have been preaching the Gospel. We have gone from complimenting and completing one another to competing with the clergy, church or conference down the street. How tragic - how true. Secondly, I have noticed that those preachers who are very “terriritorial” of the pulpit are nine times out of ten not very dynamic speakers themselves. What is worse, I have witnessed on countless occassions that when they finally elect to bring a speaker in the one selected is not as “gifted” as the preacher normally in the pulpit. That is not saying much. We buy books, attend conferences and say sound bytes: “That it’s ALL ABOUT HIM” but apparently its not when push comes to shove because we don’t want to share the spotlight or should I say “SON light” with others. Friends, this is not arrogant just an accurate statement.
Years ago, I was told that many ministers were afraid to allow other speakers in who may differ in theology, etc. Today, I don’t believe that is the issue at hand as much as insecurity in the ministry. This is not due to theology but “fear-ology.” At this juncture I can already hear some senior pastors try to insert “economics” for not bringing in more gifted artists, speakers or evangelists. Actually, it is not a ecomonical problem as it is an egotistical issue.
Over the years, I cannot tell you how many times that I have encountered friends inviting me to speak at their church only to hear their pastor to say: “I am sorry, we are in the middle of a ten week sermon series and cannot afford to break it. Perhaps another time.” That is unfortunate. This happens not just to me but most of my friends who have been gifted as some of the most powerful preachers on the planet.” After taking one too many “leadership courses” on how to distance themselves from their church members the pastor prides self on making a “executive decision.” This is “leadership lacking” to lead the church they are entrusted to grow to the next level.
When I played basketball growing up, I was tempted to play with folks my own age and dominate. After being invited to a select basketball camp where NCAA Division 1 coaches taught us while I was in high school, we were implored and instructed to play ball with folks three and four years older than us. Yes, it was tiring, exhausting and we lost more games than we won. However, when we got back and played hoops with those our own age, we realized that we were quicker, faster and were playing at another level. It has been said: “Who you hang out with is what you become.”
Ten years ago, I was on staff at one of the fastest growing churches in my convention and the pastor went on vacation for two weeks. It was my honor to preach both weeks and while I was in the pulpit I bragged on the Lord and complimented our pastor while he was away. When he returned no less than a dozen people deep waited outside of his door to say: “My goodness - you need to go on vacation more often to let Frank speak.” Honestly, I wish they didn’t quite use those terms but the fact is they meant it as a compliment for me but he took it as a swipe at him. The last year and a half on staff, I was never allowed to preach again. Why? Jealousy and insecurity.
In March 2009, I had Evangelist Rick Stanley (stepbrother to the late ELVIS PRESLEY) in my car and had him preach a revival in my hometown for three days. As I dropped him off at the airport in Washington, DC after a fun-filled couple days as he exited my car he said: “Frank, do you know the one thing a preacher will not forgive you for?” Thoughts ran through my head and I began to guess and name ideas: “Perhaps, alcohol, drugs, pre-marital sex, adultery, poor preaching, over-eating, bad breath, etc.” He said without blinking and pointed his figure toward my face: “Frank, they will not forgive you if you are more successful than them.” I was stunned and Rick was right.
Friends, regardless of your vocation may we all celebrate the credentials of others. Like my last post, be an “EAGLE” not an ostrich when it comes to dealing with others with more charisma, clout, class and competence. Daily, I pray to honor God, bless other people and surround myself with folks with way more talent. Be better not “bitter” when you cross paths with new friends and fellow servants.
The Body of Christ resembles the human hand. We have prophets, evangelists, apostles, pastors, psalmists, etc. In high school, I could throw a football 47 yards with a tight spiral. Not bad for a 17 year old teen! However, if I cut off one finger I would immediately lose my grip and you could automatically knock off at least 20 yards from my next throw. We need each other (all the gifts of God in the Church today - especially, in these dark, difficult days) and when we let fear hinder us from bringing in someone special with a God given gift we not only “quinch the Holy Spririt” but its like going to war and leaving the Special Ops unit at home. This not only grieves God, despairs Deity and anguishes the Almighty but we cease to live and begin to exist in building the Kingdom of God. We go from soldiers to spectators. That is demotion not promotion.
Without question, scores will have to give a long account to God when we stand before Him in Glory because we let pride, ego and insecurity hinder us from steering His sheep to greener pastures. In closing, I would like to encourage all pastors and youth ministers to bring in speakers and singers with a heart for God and talent. Celebrate them - do not tolerate them. Let God use them to bless your people. Trust me, we will all be better for it. Lets extract the cancer from the Church in the illness of insecurity and then and only then can we really do service for our Savior while working together to build His Kingdom not our church. It’s all His anyways. Let’s be about His Destiny not our dynasty.