Pastor's Blog

January 10, 2017

For many years my family and I have committed ourselves to giving 10% of our gross income (tithing) for ministry through our local church. Every once in a while that established practice requires faith in order to continue. Last month was one of those months.

As many of you know I recently changed jobs. With a job change comes an adjustment to income and bill paying patterns. At the end of December I was faced with a faith decision...will I give when I don't see a way to pay the bills.

I am glad my family put our financial faith in God and not ourselves. The answer came 10 nerve-wracking days later. Today we got multiple checks which enable us to pay our mortgage the exact day it is due WITHOUT penalty. 

"Thank you Jesus for giving us the courage to rely on You with our finances. Our financial matters would be a mess without you!"

 

January 3, 2017

This Sunday is a day I have looked forward to for several weeks. We will use the month of January to promote, recruit and organize the launch of Small Groups! As I have said over the past couple of months the Small Group experience this fall was truly eye opening. In fact I wish we had launched Small Groups months ago. Truly a shift in my thinking and understanding of just how powerful Small Groups can be.

Sunday you will get to experience a Small Group meeting/session for yourself. The Small Group that met this fall will actually conduct a meeting during service on Sunday. In fact the entire service will be a Small Group meeting. It will give everyone a chance to experience what myself and others have experienced, but in a safe and non committal manner.

If you would like to fully "prepare" for Sunday's experience I would recommend you get a copy of the book "I Am a Church Member" by Thom Rainer. They are about $5 at most Christian book stores or you can download to your electronic device. If you get a copy go ahead and read the Introduction for Sunday since that will be the "chapter" we will be discussing. The same book will be used in February when we actually launch all our Small Groups.

Don't miss the Sunday! It will give you a peek into the power of Small Groups.

December 1, 2016

Small Groups

Last night my small group met to discuss a service project we have adopted. There was not a "formal" plan for the evening other than eat and finalize the project. At one point Jerry Flummer said "everyone seems quiet tonight." After that the genuine sharing started.

As a pastor I have been taught and practice a certain level of secrecy with those that attend my church. In other words I have not shared some of my fears and struggles regarding the church. Due to the dynamics of my small group I broke that pattern last night. I'm glad I did!

After I opened up we discussed the church in general for the remainder of our time. Where we are and where we might be going. There was not any great spiritual revelations, but I felt such a sense of release after opening up. I got my thoughts out in the open and my small group encouraged me.

I am so grateful for my small group and the bond we share. I am praying that each person that attends Orchard will find a small group to join in the coming weeks. It has truly changed my spiritual journey.

Derek

 

October 12, 2016

The Time is Now

For the past two weeks I've been in military duty at Ft. Stewart, GA which is near Savannah. After a few days on the ground, we started watching Hurricane Matthew spin up in the Caribbean Sea. Eventually my whole unit was pulled from the field and locked down to main post to ride out the storm.

I'm constantly amazed at God's power, and Hurricane Matthew is a prime example. The US was spared from the height of its destructive winds. The people of Haiti were not as fortunate with over 800 (my last count since I don't have cable or internet) people killed.

These events often prompt others to ask, "Why would a merciful God inflict such hurt?" The answer lies in the sin of humanity. The Garden of Eden was made for humans, but we listened to the lies of Satan, and God had to remove us from that place. We had to leave because God dwelled there, and He cannot be around sin.

Death and destruction is not God fault. It's ours. Our sin forces God to keep us at a distance until we receive Christ as our Savior. If you have not surrender your life to Him, don't put it off any longer. The time for salvation is now before the next "storm" hits.

Derek

 

October 5, 2016

A Special Place

I've been serving churches for 30 years in part time and full time capacities. During those 30 years I've had many Sundays that I was "off." Vacation with the family or away for other ministry opportunities.

During the time I've been off I usually missed going to church. It was a personal spiritual longing to worship and study. 

My current absence is different. I'm fulfilling my National Guard Chaplain duties at Ft Stewart, Georgia. I do miss the personal spiritual of not being at church, but I've never missed the people at church as much as now.

Acts 2:47 tells us the people of the first church "enjoyed the favor of all the people." Yesterday was so hard. Not because I missed preaching a sermon or any other of the things I do on Sunday. I missed the people!!

There were tears in my eyes last night as Kelly shared with me the events of the day and how God was moving in her heart. Our church is truly special and truly "enjoy the favor of all the people" each and every week.

Thanks to everyone for making Orchard such a special place for me!

Derek

 

September 6, 2016

Sharing Life

One of the challenges for me as Pastor at Orchard is to balance all of my responsibilities. I have always been full time in my church ministry positions since I graduated from seminary, which was 25 years ago. Due to our dynamics full time is just not an option for Orchard.

As a result I have a full time job which has truly opened my eyes to what our people experience on a weekly basis. It has forced me to openly share with others the struggles I have on a weekly and sometimes daily basis. I have found myself reaching out to others within the church to ask for prayer and seek encouragement.

The process has reminded me of my favorite verse found in 1 Thessalonians 2:8 "We loved you so much that we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God, but our very lives as well, because you had become so dear to us."

I must confess that I am delighted to share my life with the people who call Orchard Fellowship home. There is more acceptance and understanding than with any group of people I have ever served with. Sharing my life experiences enables me to keep going and enlists prayer supposed when/where needed. God has truly blessed me because of each of you.

Thank you for sharing my life. I am blessed because of you.

Derek

 

August 16

Balance

The last two weeks have been quite refreshing. We scaled back the worship gatherings and included more fellowship and bonding oppurtunities. Not to mention a much needed rest for so many who have been working so hard to create an environment where Christ is first and everything else is just not important.
 
As I look towards the fall I see such opportunity to capitalize on the momentum from this summer. We are planning our first baptism service, our first communion service, as well as special volunteer and fellowship days. With so many things going on I must remind myself and everyone to take care of our personal spiritual walk first.
 
"Balance" is the word that keeps coming to my mind. If I've learned anything from my first six months as a church planter it is balance. Church planting is a lot of work for everyone. I want the next 6 months to have more built in balance than we had during the first six months. That will sustain all of our people for the long haul.
 
We have a great opportunity so my prayer is "God give me the wisdom to create balance in my life AND in the life of our church."
 
Derek
 
 
August 9, 2016

Be Still

How do we keep ALL of life in balance?
I recently started working a full time job. First "real" job I've had in quite a while. By that I mean 40 hours a week on someone else's schedule.
 
Accepting the new position has reminded me how difficult it is to maintain balance. There is family, work, kids, and of course there is God. Our tendency is to convince ourselves that we can do it all. After all, this is America and we have such an independent spirit and determination.
 
The fact is we can't do it all. There are seasons when we must cut back. Often we don't want to cut back at church. We feel like we are letting God down somehow or the church makes us feel guilty for needing to say no.
 
God promised "freedom in Christ" (2 Cor 3:17) and "the truth will set us free" (John 8:32).
 
We'll, here's the truth! Orchard Fellowship will never attempt to make anyone feel guilty for saying no. Our society must learn "to be still and know that He is God. (Psalms 46:10) When we are still God can move in our life and stretch us and then we can more effectively serve him.
 
Be still and get life in balance.
 
Derek
 
 
August 2, 2016

Flourishing

Even though the warm dasy will last a few more weeks, summer is about to end. School starts in a week or so which means back to school shopping and excited little ones. 
With the season about to change, I have been reflecting on where we are as a congregation. I was recently asked if I thought the church was "about where I expected for our first summer." I had to pause and admit that I am surprised where our church is at this point in the process.
We began to meet weekly five short months ago. During our first summer we have actually grown. Attendance and giving have either increased or gone up during the summer. That just does not happen in church life.
What is the best aspect of our journey is to watch our people welcome everyone who enters the doors. Regardless of race, how they're dressed, or their background people are received with love and acceptance. 
The real reason our church is flourishing is because of the people. When a visitor enters the theatre and senses there is love and acceptance they stay. I'm proud to serve with people such as this. Living the example of Christ every Sunday.

Derek

 

July 20, 2014

Serve Wholeheartedly

Sunday, we did something a little different during worship. Erik Smith took part of the service. He gave the opening welcome, announcements and prayer. He did a great job by sharing scripture and inviting anyone with a spiritual need to approach a Prayer Partner after service.
Ephesians 6:7 says "Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving God and not men." 
 
I believer we have a church full of people who serve in that manner. Mike and Tracy Whitfield come early every week to help set up. Patti Ammons and Kim Ireland taking care of the babies and toddlers. Mark Johnson leading our security. This list goes on and on.
 
Thanks to each of you for what you do, but more importantly HOW you do it. There is a joy in everyone heart and a genuine smile on their face. You step up when asked and many times without being asked.
I love you all for you desire to serve!
Derek

July 14, 2016

Up for the Challenge

This past weekend I hosted a family reunion for my mother's side of our family. We went to Cheaha for the day and had a great time--swimming, hiking, and of course lots of food. Family from Noth Carolina to Florida came and enjoyed catching up.
After everyone left, I took some time to reflect and realized that I had reestablished some relationships and began others that were non-existent. All of the relationships represent a wide variety of spiritual journeys and cirsumstances.
 
The challenge for Christ followers is to impact the lives of those around us. If we are around our family or total stranger,s they should see Jesus in our actions and words. Our world experiences, hurt and pain, and Jesus can provide the comfort and healing they desperately need.
 
We come in contact with people everyday who need a touch from the Savior. Can He count on us to be His representative? Most of the time we are His chosen instrument to impact the lives of others. I challenge all Christ followers to be looking for those who need Him and extend Jesus to others. They need Jesus, and we have Him.
Derek

 

July 7, 2016

Risking It All

Monday we celebrated the Fourth of July. This is the day we have recognized as the beginning of our nation--the day that independence was declared from royal rule of England.
The thing that strikes me about the 4th is the fact that those who signed The Declaration of Independence were committing treason. As a member of the military, the concept of treason is repugnant to me. However, those who signed that famous document did so with a sense of a call to something better. 
 
What courage it took. If they lost the coming war, they would be killed for their treason. It is almost impossible to imagine someone risking their family,  posessions and their lives. They truly believed in the cause.
 
How about us? We are Christians, but are we willing to risk everything for the cause of Christ? I hope we have the faith, courage and commitment to represent Christ to others regardless of the personal cost.
 
Derek
 
 

June 29, 2016

Changes

Life is about change. The older I get the more I realize that everything changes, even if we don't want things to change, they do. 
Sometimes the change is slow like aging. We gradually are not able to enjoy all the activities we used to enjoy. There is just not enough energy anymore.
 
Another slow change is the growth of our children. We are with them consistently, and we don't notice the subtle changes they are experiencing. Then one day they are adults and moving away from home. The changes occurred over 20 years, but they did occur and now they are gone from the nest.
 
Still, other changes are sudden and cause a shock to the system-unexpected illness or death of a family member. Sudden changes cause great stress and uncertainty to the entire family.
 
The good news is Jesus will walk with us through any change, slow and undetectable or sudden and shocking, He is always there. Ready to comfort, guide and direct. 
 
As you look at the changes occurring in your life lean on Jesus. He always meets our needs if we open up and allow Him into our circumstances.
 
Derek
 
 

June 21, 2016

The Journey

Today I was reminded of my sermon yesterday. Yes, we preacher types are spiritually led by our own sermons! If fact God holds us personally accountable for the sermons we deliver.

I start a new journey today. A journey that has a lot of uncertainty, but also a lot of promise. The journey will take up much more of my time and will stretch me in ways I don't yet understand. God reminded me this morning that He is in front leading me all the way. Just like the pillar of cloud and fire from Exodus 13.

My task is to follow the path He has laid out. I don't need to be familiar with the path; my task is to follow. There is anxiety and especially uncertainty when we begin a new journey on a path that is unfamiliar. God never promised that following Him would be easy, but He did promise to help us along he way.

Following God's path is difficult at times, but there is comfort knowing He is out front leading the way. If believers would just look up to see the His presence and follow His path we will find the journey much more rewarding and enjoyable. Not easy, but maybe satisfying is the right word.

God give me the courage to follow your path regardless of where it leads.

Derek

 

June 7, 2016

Here Comes Summer!

 

As Orchard Fellowship enters its first summe,r I must confess that I am very pleased with our progress. We average around 70 each week which is very good considering the fact that a couple of faithful families moved recently. If we look at who is present on Sundays, you will see that at least 33% of the crowd was not attending church anywhere when we began this journey. Truly, it's amazing that we have impacted so many in such a short period of time.

Our giving continues to be VERY strong. To date we are paying all the bills and have money to spend on extras such as Terrific Kid Tuesdays, Preschool and Children's walls/floors, and sound/lighting equipment. God is blessing our faithful giving and stewardship of the funds He has entrusted to our care.

With all the good going on it can still be discouraging at times. When we have a holiday weekend with attendance in the 50s its easy to get down. I have to remind myself that planting a church is a long term process and not an immediate explosion. In fact if we have 150 people this Sunday, we probably would not be able to handle the crowd. God is giving us the growth we need at the time we need it.

The best part starts tomorrow with Terrific Kid Tuesdays. I ask you to join me in praying for 5 additional families to join our fellowship as a result of the mall outreach this summer. To get 5 families to "stick" it might take 15 families to visit. Ask God to grant us opportunity to minister to families who need/want a touch from Him. Ask Him to use tickets, coloring books, bracelets and tattoos to attract people to Himself.

 Derek

 

May 31, 2016

Memorial Day

Memorial Day is often misunderstood. The holiday is not set aside to honor veterans. That is reserved for Veterans Day in November. Memorial Day is set aside to honor those who have died in combat. Unfortunately, we are unable to thank those who have died in combat. We can give out appreciation to the family member of those who died in combat.
 
In fact, the family ALWAYS pays a higher price than the service member. Believe me when I say it's easier to go overseas than to be left behind. When a service member leaves the family is left to fill the void and carry on without him or her.
 
This week find someone who lost a loved one in combat and thank them. The service member died, but the family remained to carry on. 
 
Derek
 
 
May 24, 2016

This Time is Precious

Every now and then we have an experience that reminds us what is truly important. These events give us perspective by allowing us to see that the things we spend our time and energy doing may not be that important. I had one of those experience Friday evening.

I was completing my two week Annual Training as a Chaplain with the Alabama National Guard on Friday. I had just had supper with a couple of friends and was about to put my feet up at the armory. The next morning would be our last day and I was expecting to be home shortly after lunch. Then I get a phone call.

One of my Soldiers had a step child who had got his hands on a pistol and shot himself. Three other siblings, one older and two younger, were at home alone and found the body. Needless to say, I left Tuscaloosa and headed to the Soldier's home where I spent most of the night. I got up early Saturday and went back to see the family and attempted to help them begin to grieve.

As I visited, prayed and talked with the family I could not help but feel grateful for my own children. They are grown, but I am so thankful for the years we have had together. Then Sunday I went to church and learned how the children at Orchard Fellowship worship, study and play each week. All of these experiences continued to remind me how fortunate I am and how precious the young lives around me truly are.

If you have not given your children a hug lately, do so as soon as possible. The time with them is precious, and you never know when it will be gone.

Derek

 

May 10, 2016

Summer Outreach

Every church goes through highs and lows. Usually, a church experiences difficult months during the summer in terms of attendance and giving. Most families take their vacations during the summer, and people tend to find outside activities which take them away from regular church attendance.

Orchard Fellowship will be no different. We WILL experience normal ebb and flow of attendance and participation just like every other church. However, I believe we have an opportunity to alter the "normal" pattern with our outreach events at the mall this summer. When most other churches are in coast mode, we will be hitting the ground hard to let others know about our church and ultimately about Jesus.

There will be two significant weekly events this summer. First, AMC Theatre will host children's movies each week on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The theatre usually has between 300 and 700 people each week enjoying these movies. Think about that for a minute--over 300 people coming to our place of worship each week who don't know that we worship in the theatre. That's a tremendous opportunity for Orchard!

The second event is Terrific Kids Tuesdays hosted by Quintard Mall. The mall hosts this event weekly in the food court with a bounce house, animal shows, and other attractions. There are usually 300-500 people each week in the Food Court from 11-1 PM. We will provide the bounce house for the mall and get the opportunity to interact with those present. Another great opportunity to let others know about our Savior and Church.

If you can help on Tuesdays during June and July, then get involved. Shoot me an email with which days you're available, and I will get you some specifics (derek@orchardfellowship.com). Don't feel like you need to volunteer every week. Just once or twice would be a huge help AND give you an opportunity to get involved in outreach in a non-threatening manner. Help us tell others about the tremendous environment God has given us at Orchard. You never know who needs a touch from Jesus and you can be His instrument for making that touch.

May 3, 2016

Preparing God's People for Service

One of my dreams for Orchard Fellowship was to have a church filled with people willing to serve. For many years, I have served churches that were filled with people who simply would not serve. They would attend faithfully and many would give of their finances, but they would not give themselves. It's easy to come and give some money, but to give of yourself is difficult. As a pastor, it was disheartening to not be able to get people to give their most precious resource which is themselves.

Ephesians 4:11-13 tells us that the purpose of "pastors and teachers," is "to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up." One of my duties is to prepare God's people for service.

With that in mind I preach, teach, visit, pray and work to prepare people for service, but many just would not serve. Growing and vibrant churches are comprised of people who serve. They serve Jesus in many areas. Some of those areas are through the church and other areas are outside the church.

Notice that Ephesians 4 does not tell us to build up the church. We are to build up the "body of Christ." That could be any believer anywhere. My challenge to all believers is to build up the body of Christ. If you are not building up the body of Christ, then there is something wrong. Get busy working for His glory so that believers may be built up "until we all reach unity in the faith."

We provide opportunities for you at Orchard. Take advantage of the opportunity God gives you and serve. Below is the link. There is plenty to choose from, but pick only one. Nobody should be burned out serving at church!

SIGN UP HERE

Derek

 

April 26, 2016

A Refreshing Journey

Sunday afternoon, we had a church-wide cookout at our home. The turnout was just amazing. There were more people at the cookout than at church that morning. What a great testimony about how much our people love being together!

Four families in my neighborhood came and enjoyed the food and fellowship as well. It gave me an opportunity to build deeper relationships with my neighbors and hopefully introduce them to Christ.

After everyone left yesterday, Kelly and I were talking and reflecting on the day. Not just the Gathering that morning and the cookout that afternoon, but the joy in our hearts. We agreed that we are enjoying worshipping and serving with the people of Orchard Fellowship more than we have in many, many years...maybe ever.

I cannot help, but wonder if this is what the first churches were like? I am continuing to read Acts and see how much the people enjoyed being together, worshipping God and reaching others. I must confess that I have never been part of an experience quite like this.

Most of my time on church staff resulted in negative experiences for me and my family, but not this time. There is something different about this journey that is refreshing. More importantly I see others being drawn to Jesus because of what we have together. People who have been burned by church or gone through difficult times with God are joining our fellowship.

What a genuine blessing to enjoy the favor of God's people. Thank you for allowing my family and I share this journey. It makes my heart full!

Derek

 

April 19, 2016

I Love Sundays!

In preparation for starting Orchard Fellowship I listened to and read quite a bit about church planting. We modeled our launch process after Nelson Searcy's model.
While reviewing some of his material he mentioned difficulty he had with some ministerial staff. Nelson indicated the source of the staff members struggles was "they did not love Sundays." Their lack of love for the biggest day of the week for a church minister was a hurdle that could not be overcome.
As I have reflected on my time in local church ministry, I must confess I have always loved Sundays. In fact I was not totally thrilled about last Sunday. I had a long week and was physically tired and running low on sleep. 
However, at the end of the day yesterday I was rejoicing and remembered just how much I love Sundays. During the Gathering one person raised their hand indicating they had accepted Jesus as their Savior. Then Sunday eveningTerra visited a family and one of their children prayed to accept Jesus as Savior as well. Looks like we need to figure out how to baptize as a new church.
Two people accepting Christ as Savior is such a reminder why I LOVE SUNDAYS!
 
-Derek

 

April 12, 2016

Vibrant Churches


Pastors have many duties and/or responsibilities. One of those duties is creating an environment where spiritual growth can take place. A much needed element of that spiritual growth is fellowship-not a program, but an opportunity to get to know each other in a more personal way.

I had hoped to increase our fellowship opportunities by launching small groups this Spring. However, we are just not at the point where I believe we can effectively launch small groups. As a result I have asked our leadership to host and/or schedule fellowships within their ministry areas (Security, Greeters, Band, etc.).

The first church met together in just such a manner. Acts 2:46-47 says "They broke bread together in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people." Vibrant churches enjoy each other, and I want us to do the same OUTSIDE of Sunday mornings.

With that said, Kelly and I invite everyone to our home on April 24th, 4pm-7pm. It will be laid back with no agenda other than enjoying each other and will be a great opportunity to invite someone who might be hesitant about coming on Sunday mornings. If you need to sign up shoot me an email at derek@orchardfellowship.com, and I will get you on the list.

Derek

 

April 5, 2016

The Main Thing

I recently got a call from a long-time friend in the ministry. He was preparing for one of THOSE meetings with the Personnel Committee at his church. He asked that I pray for him to have the right words and say them with the right spirit.

I have been thinking about him all day, but I have also been thinking about my journey. There has been many a day that I was anxious to attend a meeting of this nature. Those memories bring back some terrible emotions deep inside and even impact how I conduct ministry today.

However, the good news is I'm not in that environment anymore. Praise God I am no longer a slave to those who believe I should serve them and not the Lord. I serve the Risen Savior, and my congregation expects me to serve Him and not them. I am so blessed to be serving along side the precious folks at Orchard Fellowship. We have truly started a church where the main thing IS the main thing and the rest get pushed aside.

Thank you to my church family for a place to use my gifts and talents. I am so blessed and highly favored.

Derek

 

March 29, 2016

What's Next?

During my ministry Easter Sunday has always been the end. There were Holy Week (week before Easter) services, musicals to practice and present, and it all culminated with Easter Sunday. As a result Easter was the end and the next few weeks and sometimes months were down with regard to attendance and even movement of the Holy Spirit.

As I read, and think more critically about the resurrection of Jesus in scripture I am struck by the fact that it was actually the beginning. Jesus had invested in his followers for three years before he was crucified. He was buried and rose after 3 days, just as He had foretold.

Seven weeks after Jesus' crucifixion an amazing thing happened... a church was formed. The foundation had been laid during Jesus' earthly ministry  and with the post resurrection experiences of the believers, but the church was solidified at Pentecost (Acts 2). Too often we don't connect the dots and miss the fact that the first church formed a mere seven weeks after the resurrection of Jesus.

With that in mind, what will our church be busy with over the next seven weeks? The sermon series during this time is "Aftershocks." Each week I will explore a different post resurrection experience of the followers of Jesus. I hope and pray we will use this time to continue to reach out, invite others and share what God is doing in our lives personally and our church corporately.

These are exciting days, so take advantage of the opportunity!

Derek 

 

March 22, 2016

Genuine

Sunday during the Gathering I was struck with the thought of how fortunate I am. I have been serving as a staff member in local churches since I was 18 years old. That is over 30 years! During that time I have faced difficult people and circumstances. So much so that it was hard to worship. At times I was just doing a job and not serving God or the people.

Orchard is different than what I have experienced in the past. We don't have the "typical" complaints or moans and groans of an established church. There is just a genuine love for people and each other. These factors are what is attracting people and is what will continue to attract people.

I am so grateful for the opportunity to worship in a safe space every week and not worry about who or what is going on behind me. I was reading about the new church plant in Jerusalem in Acts 2:46-47. Every day the people met together at the Temple. They ate together with gladness and genuine thankfulness for each other. They enjoyed the company of each other and they shared meals together in their homes.

What a testimony if our church will continue to be like the new church in Acts. I would argue that the bond and joyfulness of the believers is why God "added to their number daily those who were being saved." If we strive for and protect what we have God will continue to bring others because they need and want what we have found at Orchard Fellowship.

Thanks to each of you for my personal worship experience. It is truly special.

Derek 

 

March 15, 2016

Moving Mountains

Faith can be an incredible tool, but too often we are unable to use it. Simply put, we don't have enough to seemingly make the impossible happen. Often the evidence of our faith is not short term, but long term. If we have a relative facing difficult health odds, desire for children, family coming to faith in Jesus or growth in our church. It requires belief in what God has asked and confidence that God will act in His time.
 
If you haven't seen the trailer for Little Boy, please take a moment to watch it:
 
I am reminded of Exodus 32:9-14 when Moses was on Mt. Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments from God. The Hebrew became restless waiting on Moses so they built a gold calf and worshiped it. God was so angry that he told Moses, "Now leave me alone so that my anger may burn against them and that I may destroy them."
However, Moses did not leave God alone. In fact he asked God, "why should your anger burn against your people?" Eventually, Moses persuaded God not to destroy the Hebrews. What faith that required! To intercede on behalf of a sinful people and change God's mind!
Do we have that much faith? Are we willing to believe and work until God moves? Difficult questions to answer, but if we are willing to believe and work that long then we will see God do miraculous things.

 

March 8, 2016

Reaching Out...Church at the Mall

I was reminded Sunday what a great location God has given our church. Meeting at AmStar Theatre in Quintard Mall brings more visibility than I would have believed a few months ago.
 
Over the last three weeks there have been four Guests to Orchard Fellowship that were in the mall just to WALK.
 
Yesterday, a lady was walking, and our Greeters struck up a conversation with her as she was leaving and invited her to attend our Gathering. She could not because she had some fresh produce in the car and did not want it to spoil. Our Greeters pointed out it was only 9:30 and the Gathering did not begin until 10:00. The lady promptly left, went home to drop off her produce, and came back in her walking clothes to attend worship.
 
We see in the Bible that the believers went to where unbelievers were. Time and time again believers are found GOING to and telling unbelievers about Jesus.
 
Acts 11:20-21 is an example. Believers in Jesus Christ went to Antioch and "the Lord's hand was with them, and a great number of peopled believed and turned to the Lord."
 
I am so grateful to be part of a church who, by very location, has chosen to be among unchurched people. Not just by location, but our people are interacting with unchurched and inviting them to come. What an awesome opportunity we have and I am so grateful to our people for taking advantage of the opportunities God provides each Sunday...in the mall.
 
-Derek

 

February 29, 2016

Spiritual Friendships

I don't know how your last seven days have been, but mine have been less than inspiring. In fact they have been down right discouraging...if I let myself get discouraged.
 
Orchard will be paying me part time in the coming weeks. As a result I need to get another part time job. I accepted a position a few days ago, and I was excited for the opportunity. Then, out of the blue, the Chief Operations Officer called three days later and withdrew the job offer. What a shock! Did not see that one coming at all.
 
Next, I found out that am not getting promoted in my National Guard duty. I was expecting and was led to believe it would happen, but it did not.
 
With these unexpected events occurring in less that a seven-day time frame, I am grateful that I have genuine friends I can lean on. Sunday's sermon from Ecclesasties 4 was put into practice during the last seven days. I reached out to over six different people within the church and told them my struggles. Just like I expected, they listened patiently which gave me opportunity to process my thoughts and feelings regarding these events.
 
In addition they gave me solid insight, from an outside perspective, which enabled me to change the way I viewed these events.
 
We need friends like that in our lives. I am reminded of 2 Kings 2:2 where Elijah tried to get Elisha to stay while he (Elijah) went to Bethel. Elisha refused to leave his mentor, friend and companion. I am so grateful that I have genuine spiritual friends in our congregation that I can lean on when I need to lean a while. I know they won't leave me. Better yet, they will go with me on the journey. Just the kind of church I want us to become and just the kind of church I need. 
-Derek

 

February 22, 2016

Our Burning Bush

Yesterday I watched the movie Exodus: Gods and Kings. Not a very accurate movie from a biblical perspective, but entertaining. After the move I went for a run. Usually I run with some music, but not yesterday since I needed to think.
 
While running I was reminded of the journey of Moses and his people. My next thought was how similar Israel's journey is to Orchard's. Israel's journey began at the burning bush in Exodus chapter 3, where God explained His motivation for the journey. In verses 7-9 God used words like "misery" (v. 7), "crying" (v. 7), "suffering" (v. 7), "rescue" (v. 8), "cry" (v.9), and  "oppressing" (v. 9) to describe the current circumstances of the Israelites in Egypt. God wanted to relieve their pain.
 
That is exactly the motivation I had in my heart when I sensed God's calling to begin the Orchard Fellowship journey. I saw the hurt in the people I was serving with, and I saw the hurt in the people in our community.
 
In many ways yesterday was our burning bush experience as a congregation. We have launched, and now it's time to go to work. People all around us are hurting, and God is calling our little congregation to make a difference; and we are. Yesterday I saw new faces who, just a few weeks ago, did not attend church anywhere. Some who came yesterday did not attend church last week. God is blessing our efforts, but the journey has just begun.
 
I look forward to where the journey takes us and the lives that will be impacted along the way. My life is one that has already been impacted, and there will be many others. What a great opportunity we have!
 
-Derek