Thursday, February 28, 2013

Job Opportunity: Consultant for Mission Leaders

Do you feel called to train and mobilize Presbyterians in faithful and effective mission practice? Or do you know someone who does?

Presbyterian World Mission is looking for a consultant/coach to network with and train U.S. Presbyterian mission pastors, mission committees, mission networks, mission advocates and other leaders in mission.

We're looking for three "network catalysts" to equip, inspire, and connect others to

  1. address root causes of poverty,
  2. promote reconciliation in cultures of violence
  3. share the Good News of Jesus Christ

See the full job description and apply online by March 15. Please prayerfully consider if God may be calling you to this position, and share widely with others!
http://www.mycareernetwork.com/clientResumeMgr/JobSearchDetails.aspx?JobID=145824&frame=false
 

Questions? Please contact Ellen Sherby, coordinator of Equipping for Mission Involvement: 1-502-569-5612, ellen.sherby@pcusa.org  

Visit Mission Crossroads PC(USA) at: http://missioncrossroads.ning.com/

In the News ... "Hunger impacts homeless vets; soup kitchen in the works"


By Matt Rist, Reporter
KOSA-TV


FORT STOCKTON, TEXAS - As the population grows, so does the number of residents without homes. Community members in Fort Stockton are trying to do something about it--as residents, including veterans know first-hand what it's like to go without.

Vietnam veteran Ralph Coldiron knows the pang of hunger.

"I've gone 2, 3 days without eating,” said Coldiron, a Vietnam Veteran without a home. “When you're stuck in a town like this all you can do is starve." Coldiron served his country and worked for years--like many in Fort Stockton, he's down on his luck. "I've worked for a long time,” Coldiron said. “For more than 20 years, but I was laid off and my benefits ran out."

Members of Triunfo De La Fe Church in Fort Stockton give back to the community with a food pantry. Now they hope to launch a soup kitchen where community members .


 • read the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 28, 2013

>SYNOD OF THE TRINITY - A wide variety of persons gathered to consider how Christians in the Synod of the Trinitycan best go about “Protecting Our Children.” Pastors, ruling elders, deacons, Christian educators, Sunday school teachers, and others reviewed topics including what is written in the Book of Order and pertinent laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Lenten Devotional for Thursday, February 28

Dr. Jim Denison's 2013 collection of Lenten devotionals is entitled, "If My People..." and comes at a time that he believes "a Fifth Great Awakening is sweeping the nations, as more people are coming to Christ than ever before in Christian history. How can you join this great movement of God's Spirit?" He goes on to write, "in this year's Lenten devotional guide, we will walk each day with King Solomon as he leads his nation into God's presence and glory. We will commit ourselves to our Father's purpose and experience his transforming power. And we will claim his promise: 'If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land' (2 Chronicles 7:14). 'If My People ...' is more than a Lenten guide - it is God's invitation to intimacy with him. Please join us on this joyous journey."

CLICK HERE for a free copy of Dr. Denison's 2013 Lenten Devotional (in a downloadable/printable Adobe .pdf file)


Thursday, February 28
Have you thanked God for his grace today?

If we were to shrink the world's population to a village of 100 people, it would contain the following: 57 Asians, 21 Europeans, 14 from the Western hemisphere, and 8 Africans. Fifty-two would be female, 48 male. Six would possess 59% of the world's wealth. Eighty would live in substandard housing; 70 would be unable to read; 50 would suffer from malnutrition. Do you know how many would have a college education? One. How many would own a computer? One.

Did you deserve to live in the prosperity of your community and not the deprivation of North Korea? Did you deserve to hear the gospel, a privilege more than a third of the world has yet to experience? Did you deserve the physical abilities you enjoy?

All people who come to God seek him for one of two reasons: either so he will help us or because he already has. Either so he will love us, or because he already does. Solomon and his nation concluded their week of temple dedication with gratitude for all God had done for them:

So Solomon observed the festival at that time for seven days, and all Israel with him — a vast assembly, people from Lebo Hamath to the Wadi of Egypt. On the eighth day they held an assembly, for they had celebrated the dedication of the altar for seven days and the festival for seven days more. On the twenty-third day of the seventh month he sent the people to their homes, joyful and glad in heart for the good things the LORD had done for David and Solomon and for his people Israel. (2 Chronicles 7:8-10)

God wants us to experience awakening no matter who we are. Have you thanked him for his grace today?



Prior to founding the Denison Forum on Truth and Culture, James C. Denison, Ph.D., was pastor of Park Cities Baptist Church, a 10,000-member congregation in Dallas, Texas. He also pastored churches in Midland and Mansfield, Texas, and in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and received a Doctor of Divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University. He is also the the author of seven books.

Wednesday, February 27, 2013

In the News ... "Booming Midland shows different face"

Editorial
Midland Reporter-Telegram

MIDLAND, TEXAS - It is heartbreaking for us to scan the statistics coming from the Midland Homeless Coalition, but the single most disturbing fact is that we have more homeless children in our city.

Overall, homeless adults increased by 2 percent from January 2012 to 2013. And we have seen a 31 percent rise in the number of homeless children over that same period, from 83 to 109.

There may be even more unaccounted for.

 • read the rest of this op-ed piece

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 27, 2013

PRESBYTERY OF TRES RIOS, TEXAS - Since 1996 First Presbyterian Church (FPC) in Midland has sent mission teams of high school youth and their sponsors to build houses in colonias along the border during spring break. The first year, six youth and six adults traveled. On the most recent trip, almost 60 youth and 35 adults participated. Accommodations included tents with air mattresses and cots, and solar showers. One group cooked during the day so meals would be ready when construction crews returned. In addition to building houses, the team played with local children and held vacation Bible school in a nearby community center.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Lenten Devotional for Wednesday, February 27

Dr. Jim Denison's 2013 collection of Lenten devotionals is entitled, "If My People..." and comes at a time that he believes "a Fifth Great Awakening is sweeping the nations, as more people are coming to Christ than ever before in Christian history. How can you join this great movement of God's Spirit?" He goes on to write, "in this year's Lenten devotional guide, we will walk each day with King Solomon as he leads his nation into God's presence and glory. We will commit ourselves to our Father's purpose and experience his transforming power. And we will claim his promise: 'If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land' (2 Chronicles 7:14). 'If My People ...' is more than a Lenten guide - it is God's invitation to intimacy with him. Please join us on this joyous journey."

CLICK HERE for a free copy of Dr. Denison's 2013 Lenten Devotional (in a downloadable/printable Adobe .pdf file)


Wednesday, February 27
What price would you pay for awakening?

Cash is going the way of the phone booth. Last year, currency accounted for an estimated 29 percent of U.S. retail payments, down from 36 percent a decade ago. For those who earn more than $60,000 a year, cash comprises just two percent of point-of-sale payments.

Merchants are replacing cash registers with hand-held devices. Web-based retailers don't accept cash at all. Toll booths are fading on the highways. The next generation of adults has grown up with debit cards, prepaid cards, and iTunes accounts. Many don't know what "ATM" means.

Convenience is the expectation of our day. A discerning Christian leader once said of his church, "We have all of Jesus we want. Not all we need, but all we want." By contrast, when Solomon and his nation completed their dedication of the temple, "the king and all the people offered sacrifices before the Lord. And King Solomon offered a sacrifice of twenty-two thousand head of cattle and a hundred and twenty thousand sheep and goats." (2 Chronicles 7:4-5).

When last did it cost you something significant to serve Christ? Would you pray with passion and work with dedication for awakening?



Prior to founding the Denison Forum on Truth and Culture, James C. Denison, Ph.D., was pastor of Park Cities Baptist Church, a 10,000-member congregation in Dallas, Texas. He also pastored churches in Midland and Mansfield, Texas, and in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and received a Doctor of Divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University. He is also the the author of seven books.

Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Reports From Lulwanda: Administrator's Report

Lulwanda Children's Home Administrator Patrick Busima holds a Bachelor of Education degree from Makerere University located in Kampala, Uganda. He has also taken formal training in management of personnel and management of projects. For 5 years he was Project Director of the Nawanjuki Child Development Center, after which he spent 5 years as Principal of the Yesu Afaayo Christian School.

January, 2013

"January ushered us into yet another special time; a year of favor, a year of achievement and a perfect time to share with the world the gift of love our heavenly father first showed to us. We continue to appreciate the commitment of all the sponsors and donors of GICF USA, for the financial, moral and physical support towards the activities at Lulwanda. Below are some of the areas our heavenly father in His grace enabled us accomplish."


CLICK HERE to read the rest of Busima's January, 2013 report.

In the News ... "Middle schoolers reach out to the elderly"


By Matt Rist, Reporter
KOSA-TV


MIDLAND, TEXAS - It was a heartwarming night at one Midland church where middle school children held a special dinner for church members who have lost their husband or wife. Golf Course Road Church of Christ teens hosted a "love" dinner for widows and elderly church members.

 • read the rest of this story

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 26, 2013

PRESBYTERY OF SOUTH LOUISIANA - Eight years after Hurricane Katrina devastated greater New Orleans, the people of that city are ever grateful for the outpouring of help from volunteers, congregations, and Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. While the city has improved year after year, there is still much to be done. Recovery and rebuilding efforts continue in the Presbytery of South Louisiana through Project Homecoming, a ministry that the presbytery began in the aftermath of the hurricane. In 2010 the presbytery incorporated Project Homecoming as a separate nonprofit and spun off the ministry in early 2012 in order to sustain the long-term recovery operations.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Lenten Devotional for Tuesday, February 26

Dr. Jim Denison's 2013 collection of Lenten devotionals is entitled, "If My People..." and comes at a time that he believes "a Fifth Great Awakening is sweeping the nations, as more people are coming to Christ than ever before in Christian history. How can you join this great movement of God's Spirit?" He goes on to write, "in this year's Lenten devotional guide, we will walk each day with King Solomon as he leads his nation into God's presence and glory. We will commit ourselves to our Father's purpose and experience his transforming power. And we will claim his promise: 'If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land' (2 Chronicles 7:14). 'If My People ...' is more than a Lenten guide - it is God's invitation to intimacy with him. Please join us on this joyous journey."

CLICK HERE for a free copy of Dr. Denison's 2013 Lenten Devotional (in a downloadable/printable Adobe .pdf file)


Tuesday, February 26
Would you ask God to empower your worship?

When I was a preacher in college, I once conducted a youth revival. During the fellowship after the service, we heard the sounds of nearby fire engines. To our shock, they stopped at the church. Someone had left a lit candle in the sanctuary, which set off a smoke detector and alerted the firemen. People came running from around the neighborhood to see what was happening. I thought of evangelist Charles Finney's pronouncement, "If the church is on fire, people will come from miles around to watch it burn."

His words once came true, literally:

"When Solomon finished praying, fire came down from heaven and consumed the burnt offering and the sacrifices, and the glory of the Lord filled the temple. The priests could not enter the temple of the Lord because the glory of the Lord gfilled it. When all the Israelites saw the fire coming down and the glory of the Lord above the temple, they knelt on the pavement with their faces to the ground, and they worshiped and gave thanks to the Lord, saying, "He is good; his love endures forever." (2 Chronicles 7:1-3).

When last did you encounter God in worship so powerfully that your life was changed? Would you pray for such "fiery" worship for your congregation and soul during these weeks of preparation for awakening?



Prior to founding the Denison Forum on Truth and Culture, James C. Denison, Ph.D., was pastor of Park Cities Baptist Church, a 10,000-member congregation in Dallas, Texas. He also pastored churches in Midland and Mansfield, Texas, and in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and received a Doctor of Divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University. He is also the the author of seven books.

Monday, February 25, 2013

ChinaAid: Jailed Chinese Christian human rights lawyer Gao Zhisheng selected for new Defending Freedoms Project of U.S. Congressional human rights commission

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Jailed Chinese Christian human rights lawyer Gao Zhisheng selected for new Defending Freedoms Project of U.S. Congressional human rights commission
Distributed by ChinaAid, January, 2013 ...

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Prominent U.S. congressman Frank Wolf has written personally to jailed Chinese Christian human rights lawyer Gao Zhisheng to inform him of his selection as one of the first two prisoners selected for the new Defending Freedoms Project of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, a bipartisan committee of the U.S. House of Representatives.

CLICK HERE for more on this story from China Aid

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 25, 2013

PRESBYTERY OF THE PINES, LOUISIANA/ARKANSAS - The Presbyterian Church of Crossett, Arkansas, is a small congregation doing big things with God’s help. They have taken Jesus’ command to heart when it comes to feeding their community. It all began in 1976 with one family and one bag of groceries. That led to the establishment of a food pantry housed in and supported by the congregation. Now a nonprofit organization, the pantry last year fed 3,712 children and adults in 1,554 households. Out of this history of faithfully sharing God’s love through food, the Take and Eat and Kid’s Café ministries have evolved. Take and Eat is a brown-bag lunch program that primarily serves the working poor. Every Thursday 50 sack lunches are distributed on the church’s front lawn. Ten congregations work together to provide a hearty and healthy lunch for those in need. This past summer, a number of hungry neighborhood children came regularly for a brown-bag lunch. “That worked on my heart,” said Rev. Bonnie Wilkins. This past fall, the congregation began Kid’s Café, a once-a-week after-school program that feeds the body, mind, and soul of 31 (and counting) neighborhood children.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Lenten Devotional for Monday, February 25

Dr. Jim Denison's 2013 collection of Lenten devotionals is entitled, "If My People..." and comes at a time that he believes "a Fifth Great Awakening is sweeping the nations, as more people are coming to Christ than ever before in Christian history. How can you join this great movement of God's Spirit?" He goes on to write, "in this year's Lenten devotional guide, we will walk each day with King Solomon as he leads his nation into God's presence and glory. We will commit ourselves to our Father's purpose and experience his transforming power. And we will claim his promise: 'If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land' (2 Chronicles 7:14). 'If My People ...' is more than a Lenten guide - it is God's invitation to intimacy with him. Please join us on this joyous journey."

CLICK HERE for a free copy of Dr. Denison's 2013 Lenten Devotional (in a downloadable/printable Adobe .pdf file)


Monday, February 25
Would you pray for your secular leaders?

Nero was one of the cruelest emperors in Roman history, ordering the beheading of Paul and the crucifixion of Peter. And yet we find this statement from the Apostle Paul:

"I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth." (1 Timothy 2:1-4).

He wanted God's people to pray for their emperor and other leaders, knowing that God wanted them and all people to come to salvation.

Solomon offered a similar prayer for himself: "O Lord God, do not reject your anointed one. Remember the great love promised to David your servant" (2 Chronicles 6:42). "Your anointed one" was the king himself. He prayed that God would not "reject" him, despite his sins, but would bless and use his life and rule.

Have you prayed today for spiritual awakening in Washington, D.C. and your community? Have you prayed for your president by name and for his advisors, for your governor, mayor, and city council? If they were to join the awakening, what would be the result for your community and country?



Prior to founding the Denison Forum on Truth and Culture, James C. Denison, Ph.D., was pastor of Park Cities Baptist Church, a 10,000-member congregation in Dallas, Texas. He also pastored churches in Midland and Mansfield, Texas, and in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and received a Doctor of Divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University. He is also the the author of seven books.

Sunday, February 24, 2013

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 24, 2013

MINUTE FOR MISSION: EVANGELICAL SEMINARY OF PUERTO RICO - On October 26, 2011, Professor Juan Bek preached in chapel at the Evangelical Seminary of Puerto Rico. He recalled that as he helped his granddaughter one evening with a school project about butterflies, he remembered Franz Kafka’s Metamorphosis. The butterfly transforms from a cocoon to a butterfly. In Kafka’s masterpiece, Gregor Samsa wakes up one morning and finds himself transformed into a giant verminous insect. Professor Bek’s sermon was a sober and prophetic call. He described our contemporary human situation, where, instead of changing from cocoons into butterflies, we find ourselves transformed into vermin. We all are Gregor Samsa. He called it “retromorphosis,” turning away from God’s image and purposes and wearing the effects of sin as persons, church, and society.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Lenten Devotional for Sunday, February 24

Dr. Jim Denison's 2013 collection of Lenten devotionals is entitled, "If My People..." and comes at a time that he believes "a Fifth Great Awakening is sweeping the nations, as more people are coming to Christ than ever before in Christian history. How can you join this great movement of God's Spirit?" He goes on to write, "in this year's Lenten devotional guide, we will walk each day with King Solomon as he leads his nation into God's presence and glory. We will commit ourselves to our Father's purpose and experience his transforming power. And we will claim his promise: 'If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land' (2 Chronicles 7:14). 'If My People ...' is more than a Lenten guide - it is God's invitation to intimacy with him. Please join us on this joyous journey."

CLICK HERE for a free copy of Dr. Denison's 2013 Lenten Devotional (in a downloadable/printable Adobe .pdf file)


Sunday, February 24
Would you pray for your spiritual leaders?

The Apostle Paul was by any measure one of the most courageous and spiritual Christians in history. Yet he knew that he needed God's people to pray for him: "Devote yourself to prayer, being watchful and thankful. And pray for us, too, that God may open a door for our message, so that we may proclaim the mystery of Christ, for which I am in chains. Pray that I may proclaim it clearly, as I should." (Colossians 4:2-4)

Paul was not the fi rst to emphasize such intercession. As King Solomon continued his prayers for the nation, he said to God: "Now arise, O Lord God, and come to your resting place, you and the ark of your might. May your priests, O Lord God, be clothed with salvation, may your saints rejoice in your goodness, (2 Chronicles 6:41)

As he prayed for the "priests" of his day, the spiritual leaders of his nation, so we should pray for the "priests" of our day. Peter taught the "shepherds of God's flock" to serve "not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the fl ock. (1 Peter 5:2-3)

Would you take time today to pray for your minister and the spiritual leaders of our day? Ask God to help them depend on his Spirit and join the awakening of our day. We cannot lead further than we are willing to go, or give what we do not have. Pray for the spiritual leaders of your city to join the Great Awakening, to the glory of God?



Prior to founding the Denison Forum on Truth and Culture, James C. Denison, Ph.D., was pastor of Park Cities Baptist Church, a 10,000-member congregation in Dallas, Texas. He also pastored churches in Midland and Mansfield, Texas, and in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and received a Doctor of Divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University. He is also the the author of seven books.

Saturday, February 23, 2013

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 23, 2013

PALU DURO PRESBYTERY, TEXAS - Teethsavers International, sponsored by Westminster Presbyterian Church in Lubbock, started out with just “one loaf” in 2004: dentist Jack Rudd and his love and concern for the poor and hurting children of the world. He began his work with children at the Meheba Refugee Camp in Zambia, where thousands of children displaced by wars desperately needed dental care.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Lenten Devotional for Saturday, February 23

Dr. Jim Denison's 2013 collection of Lenten devotionals is entitled, "If My People..." and comes at a time that he believes "a Fifth Great Awakening is sweeping the nations, as more people are coming to Christ than ever before in Christian history. How can you join this great movement of God's Spirit?" He goes on to write, "in this year's Lenten devotional guide, we will walk each day with King Solomon as he leads his nation into God's presence and glory. We will commit ourselves to our Father's purpose and experience his transforming power. And we will claim his promise: 'If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land' (2 Chronicles 7:14). 'If My People ...' is more than a Lenten guide - it is God's invitation to intimacy with him. Please join us on this joyous journey."

CLICK HERE for a free copy of Dr. Denison's 2013 Lenten Devotional (in a downloadable/printable Adobe .pdf file)


Saturday, February 23
Have you prayed for America to repent?
When our oldest son was a small boy, he would regularly ask if he could join the church. When Janet and I asked why he wanted to make this step, he would say that he wanted to be take the Lord's Supper or be baptized. We were glad for his interest but felt that he was not yet ready. Then came a day when he asked if he could become a Christian; when I asked why he wanted to do this, tears came to his eyes as he said, "I've done some bad things and need to ask God to forgive me." We prayed together in that moment and he asked Jesus to forgive his sins and make him the child of God.

Repentance is a work of the Spirit. We can feel sorry for our sins, but only the Holy Spirit can convict us of them. Do Americans need to repent of our sins? Does King Solomon's prayer apply to us?

When they sin against you — for there is no one who does not sin — and you become angry with them and give them over to the enemy, who takes them captive to a land far away or near; and if they have a change of heart in the land where they are held captive, and repent and plead with you in the land of their captivity and say, "We have sinned, we have done wrong and acted wickedly"; and if they turn back to you with all their heart and soul in the land of their captivity where they were taken, and pray toward the land you gave their fathers, toward the city you have chosen and toward the temple I have built for your Name; then from heaven, your dwelling place, hear their prayer and their pleas, and uphold their cause. And forgive your people, who have sinned against you." (2 Chronicles 6:36-39)

Would you ask God to bring a spirit of repentance to our nation?



Prior to founding the Denison Forum on Truth and Culture, James C. Denison, Ph.D., was pastor of Park Cities Baptist Church, a 10,000-member congregation in Dallas, Texas. He also pastored churches in Midland and Mansfield, Texas, and in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and received a Doctor of Divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University. He is also the the author of seven books.

Friday, February 22, 2013

Midland Group Offers "Prayer Band That Started a Revolution"

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Issued by ChinaAid ...

"This prayer band has been declared illegal in China."

"Chinese police have stopped people on the streets and taken the bands off their wrists. Some have been interrogated and arrested; at least three families were evicted from their homes—for the government, the prayer band is a symbol of revolution."

"We thank everyone across the U.S. and around the world who answered the call to wear a 'Pray for China' prayer band and pray during the Olympics. Your willingness to stand with Chinese house church Christians encouraged them as they also wore prayer bands and prayed for their country. Their commitment came with a cost. Read more."

"Yet, house church Christians refuse to be intimidated. They say that prayer for China is even more critical now that the world is no longer watching. Persecution has increased. Will you join in this revolution of prayer for China?"

"They can arrest me or put me in prison, but I'm not going to stop praying for China. Although the prayer band is banned in China, prayer can never be banned. I am asking every Christian to support believers in China by wearing a prayer band." - a prominent house church leader

"At this crucial time, will you partner in prayer? And, will you please forward this information to others who will want to pray for the persecuted in China."

» Click here to order a China Prayer Band

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 22, 2013

PRESBYTERY OF NEW COVENANT, TEXAS - Located in northwest Houston, the Young Nak Presbyterian Church has been passionately nurturing a faith community of first- and second-generation Korean Americans for 30 years. Like many Presbyterian congregations, it has gone through a period of vitality but also one of membership decline. A vibrant English ministry that once ministered to second-generation Korean American families also declined and dissolved in 2004.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Lenten Devotional for Friday, February 22

Dr. Jim Denison's 2013 collection of Lenten devotionals is entitled, "If My People..." and comes at a time that he believes "a Fifth Great Awakening is sweeping the nations, as more people are coming to Christ than ever before in Christian history. How can you join this great movement of God's Spirit?" He goes on to write, "in this year's Lenten devotional guide, we will walk each day with King Solomon as he leads his nation into God's presence and glory. We will commit ourselves to our Father's purpose and experience his transforming power. And we will claim his promise: 'If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land' (2 Chronicles 7:14). 'If My People ...' is more than a Lenten guide - it is God's invitation to intimacy with him. Please join us on this joyous journey."

CLICK HERE for a free copy of Dr. Denison's 2013 Lenten Devotional (in a downloadable/printable Adobe .pdf file)


Friday, February 22
Would you prray for awakening among our troops?

The Third Great Awakening is dated to 1858. The year before, a Presbyterian layman named Jeremiah Lamphier called for a prayer meeting at his church, Old North Dutch Church in New York City. Six people met together on Wednesday, September 23, 1857, to pray for awakening in their land. The next week, 14 gathered, then 23. "Businessman's prayer meetings" began to spread across the land. The result was an awakening that brought a million people to Christ (out of a total population of only 30 million).

One of the most signi cant results of this awakening was among the nation's military. During the Civil War, more than 150,000 troops on both sides of the con ict came to Christ. Today God is using chaplains, missionaries, and new technology to bring his word to soldiers around the world.

Solomon prayed for a similar blessing from God: "When your people go to war against their enemies, wherever you send them, and when they pray to you toward this city you have chosen and the temple I have built for your Name, then hear from heaven their prayer and their plea, and uphold their cause." (2 Chronicles 6:34-35)

Would you ask the Lord for a spiritual awakening among our troops this year?



Prior to founding the Denison Forum on Truth and Culture, James C. Denison, Ph.D., was pastor of Park Cities Baptist Church, a 10,000-member congregation in Dallas, Texas. He also pastored churches in Midland and Mansfield, Texas, and in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and received a Doctor of Divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University. He is also the the author of seven books.

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 21, 2013

MISSION PRESBYTERY, TEXAS - On September 4, 2011, the most devastating wildfire in Texas history ignited in the Bastrop-Smithville area. When the fire had finally been controlled some 36 days later, it had burned 34,000 acres and destroyed 1,600 homes and numerous businesses, shops, and farms. When the disciples and Jesus faced the seemingly impossible task of feeding the 5,000, Jesus asks the disciples, “How many loaves have you? Go and see.” We believe Jesus was asking them to take stock of their resources and to trust that no matter how overwhelmed they felt, with God all things are possible.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Lenten Devotional for Thursday, February 21

Dr. Jim Denison's 2013 collection of Lenten devotionals is entitled, "If My People..." and comes at a time that he believes "a Fifth Great Awakening is sweeping the nations, as more people are coming to Christ than ever before in Christian history. How can you join this great movement of God's Spirit?" He goes on to write, "in this year's Lenten devotional guide, we will walk each day with King Solomon as he leads his nation into God's presence and glory. We will commit ourselves to our Father's purpose and experience his transforming power. And we will claim his promise: 'If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land' (2 Chronicles 7:14). 'If My People ...' is more than a Lenten guide - it is God's invitation to intimacy with him. Please join us on this joyous journey."

CLICK HERE for a free copy of Dr. Denison's 2013 Lenten Devotional (in a downloadable/printable Adobe .pdf file)


Thursday, February 21
Would you ask God to lead the nations to faith?

I have been eight times to Cuba, where more than a million people have come to Christ in the last decade. Ministers in the People's Republic of China report that 100,000 people come to Christ every day in their country. God's Spirit is advancing awakening across the nations of our day, because he loves the entire world (John 3:16).

Do you? When last did you pray for a great global awakening to continue across the nations? When last did you pray for Muslims to come to Christ? For Buddhists, Hindus, and Jews to make Jesus their Lord? For atheists and agnostics to turn to faith?

As King Solomon continued his dedication of the temple, he prayed: "As for the foreigner who does not belong to your people Israel but has come from a distant land because of your great name and your mighty hand and your outstretched arm—when he comes and prays toward this temple, then hear from heaven, your dwelling place, and do whatever the foreigner asks of you, so that all the peoples of the earth may know your name and fear you, as do your own people Israel, and may know that this house I have built bears your Name." (1 Chronicles 6:32-33)

A wise missionary once asked God "break my heart for what breaks yours." Would you make his prayer your own?



Prior to founding the Denison Forum on Truth and Culture, James C. Denison, Ph.D., was pastor of Park Cities Baptist Church, a 10,000-member congregation in Dallas, Texas. He also pastored churches in Midland and Mansfield, Texas, and in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and received a Doctor of Divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University. He is also the the author of seven books.

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 20, 2013

INDIAN NATIONS PRESBYTERY, OKLAHOMA - At First Presbyterian Church of Ardmore, intergenerational ministry is a major emphasis. Whether participating in the annual fall carnival or in regular service at the Ardmore Soup Kitchen or local food bank, members enjoy fellowship and engage the community. During the summer of 2011, the congregation hosted a series of intergenerational activities, beginning with movie nights in the fellowship hall. Vacation Bible school was geared to all ages, with the youth group assisting in games for children, and Bible study for adults and youth.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Lenten Devotional for Wednesday, February 20

Dr. Jim Denison's 2013 collection of Lenten devotionals is entitled, "If My People..." and comes at a time that he believes "a Fifth Great Awakening is sweeping the nations, as more people are coming to Christ than ever before in Christian history. How can you join this great movement of God's Spirit?" He goes on to write, "in this year's Lenten devotional guide, we will walk each day with King Solomon as he leads his nation into God's presence and glory. We will commit ourselves to our Father's purpose and experience his transforming power. And we will claim his promise: 'If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land' (2 Chronicles 7:14). 'If My People ...' is more than a Lenten guide - it is God's invitation to intimacy with him. Please join us on this joyous journey."

CLICK HERE for a free copy of Dr. Denison's 2013 Lenten Devotional (in a downloadable/printable Adobe .pdf file)


Wednesday, February 20
Would you confess whatever grieves God in your life?

What most grieves you today? The loss of someone you love? A tragedy in your community or on the news?

King Solomon knew that our sin grieves our holy God. That's why, during his temple dedication, he interceded on behalf of his sinful people: "When a prayer or plea is made by any of your people Israel — each one aware of his a ictions and pains, and spreading out his hands toward this temple — then hear from heaven, your dwelling place. Forgive, and deal with each man according to all he does, since you know his heart (for you alone know the hearts of men), so that they will fear you and walk in your ways all the time they live in the land you gave our fathers." (2 Chronicles 6:29-31)

To follow his example, make time today for a "spiritual inventory." Take a sheet of paper and pen, and get alone with God. Ask his Spirit to show you anything in your life that grieves your Father, then write down what comes to your thoughts. No one will see what you write, so you can be speci c and honest. Confess what you have written, claim God's promise to forgive all you confess (1 John 1:9), and throw the paper away.

Do this regularly, and you will stay close to your holy Father. Would you begin this important preparation for awakening today?



Prior to founding the Denison Forum on Truth and Culture, James C. Denison, Ph.D., was pastor of Park Cities Baptist Church, a 10,000-member congregation in Dallas, Texas. He also pastored churches in Midland and Mansfield, Texas, and in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and received a Doctor of Divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University. He is also the the author of seven books.

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 19, 2013

GRACE PRESBYTERY, TEXAS - -2-3-4” and “Feed-the-child-ren” could be heard on Saturday afternoon at Senior High Youth Connection (SHYC), an annual conference held at the end of January at Austin College in Sherman, Texas. The chanting helped with timing in SHYC’s mission project. Working in three shifts, the 587 youth and adults were creating packets of rice casserole for six. The goal for the project was to create 40,000 meals, and they surpassed it with 50,976 meals. The package meal was created by Kids Against Hunger, an organization that works to feed children who are malnourished.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Lenten Devotional for Tuesday, February 19

Dr. Jim Denison's 2013 collection of Lenten devotionals is entitled, "If My People..." and comes at a time that he believes "a Fifth Great Awakening is sweeping the nations, as more people are coming to Christ than ever before in Christian history. How can you join this great movement of God's Spirit?" He goes on to write, "in this year's Lenten devotional guide, we will walk each day with King Solomon as he leads his nation into God's presence and glory. We will commit ourselves to our Father's purpose and experience his transforming power. And we will claim his promise: 'If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land' (2 Chronicles 7:14). 'If My People ...' is more than a Lenten guide - it is God's invitation to intimacy with him. Please join us on this joyous journey."

CLICK HERE for a free copy of Dr. Denison's 2013 Lenten Devotional (in a downloadable/printable Adobe .pdf file)


Tuesday, February 19
Could God redeem the drought for his glory?
The "North American Drought" of 2012 is on pace to become the costliest natural disaster in American history. Over 80 percent of the continental U.S. is experiencing at least "abnormally dry" conditions. Nearly 1,700 counties across 36 states have been legally declared natural disaster areas. The drought continues to a ict much of America. Why would God allow this calamity?

As Solomon continued his temple dedication, he prayed, "When the heavens are shut up and there is no rain because your people have sinned against you, and when they pray toward this place and confess your name and turn from their sin because you have a icted them, then hear from heaven and forgive the sin of your servants, your people. Teach them the right way to live, and send rain on the land you gave your people for an inheritance." (2 Chronicles 6:26-27).

Despite the technological sophistication of our day, drought shows us how dependent on nature we are. We have methods of nding and using water that were unknown in Solomon's day, but our economy is as reliant on water as his. And we need our Father's spiritual "showers of blessing" even more desperately.

On this seventh day of Lent, would you ask God to send rain to the places that need it most? Would you pray for spiritual awakening as fervently as you pray for material provision?



Prior to founding the Denison Forum on Truth and Culture, James C. Denison, Ph.D., was pastor of Park Cities Baptist Church, a 10,000-member congregation in Dallas, Texas. He also pastored churches in Midland and Mansfield, Texas, and in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and received a Doctor of Divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University. He is also the the author of seven books.

Monday, February 18, 2013

ChinaAid: Visitation privileges for wife of jailed Uyghur Christian leader Alimujiang severely curtailed

The China Aid Association is a non-profit Christian organization - based in Midland, Texas - with a mission to uncover and reveal the truth about religious persecution in China, focusing especially on the unofficial church. They do this, they explain in their website, by exposing the abuses, encouraging the abused and equipping the saints to advance the kingdom of God throughout China.

Visitation privileges for wife of jailed Uyghur Christian leader Alimujiang severely curtailed
Distributed by ChinaAid, January, 2013 ...

URUMQUI, XINJIANG, CHINA – The wife of jailed Uyghur Christian leader Alimujiang has had her short, monthly visits with her husband severely curtailed, and was to travel to the prison on Wednesday in hopes of seeing her husband, who was sentenced to 15 years in prison because of his religious beliefs.

CLICK HERE for more on this story from China Aid

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 18, 2013

EASTERN OKLAHOMA PRESBYTERY - The new Form of Government has sparked a season of visioning in Eastern Oklahoma Presbytery (EOP). The Resourcing Congregations Committee hosted a daylong training event for ruling elders, deacons, clerks of session, and youth leaders. There were workshops on ethics, leadership, and effective committees. The presbytery is divided into cluster groups for pastors, who meet regularly for fellowship and support. Part of the visioning process has been discussions about regional groups that would not only be engaged in dialog with one another but also join together in local mission.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Lenten Devotional for Monday, February 18

Dr. Jim Denison's 2013 collection of Lenten devotionals is entitled, "If My People..." and comes at a time that he believes "a Fifth Great Awakening is sweeping the nations, as more people are coming to Christ than ever before in Christian history. How can you join this great movement of God's Spirit?" He goes on to write, "in this year's Lenten devotional guide, we will walk each day with King Solomon as he leads his nation into God's presence and glory. We will commit ourselves to our Father's purpose and experience his transforming power. And we will claim his promise: 'If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land' (2 Chronicles 7:14). 'If My People ...' is more than a Lenten guide - it is God's invitation to intimacy with him. Please join us on this joyous journey."

CLICK HERE for a free copy of Dr. Denison's 2013 Lenten Devotional (in a downloadable/printable Adobe .pdf file)


Monday, February 18
Could God use war to promote awakening?

Today is "President's Day." Most people don't know that our government still o fficially calls this holiday "Washington's Birthday." The day was originally celebrated on February 22, our rst president's actual birthday, but was moved to the third Monday in February and now honors all U.S. presidents.

Without the military leadership of Gen. Washington, there would be no nation to remember his birthday. America needs such heroes today, as we continue the War on Terror against radical Muslims who are convinced that killing us is a defense of Islam required by the Qur'an. Why has God allowed this persistent threat against our people?

When Solomon dedicated his temple, he prayed, "When your people Israel have been defeated by an enemy because they have sinned against you and when they turn back and confess your name, praying and making supplication before you in this temple, then hear from heaven and forgive the sin of your people Israel and bring them back to the land you gave to them and their fathers" (2 Chronicles 6:24-25). The king knew that God allows and uses military enemies to show us our need for his protection and grace. On this sixth day of Lent, would you ask God to protect our military as they protect us? Would you ask him to redeem the War on Terror by making it a catalyst for spiritual awakening in America and the world?



Prior to founding the Denison Forum on Truth and Culture, James C. Denison, Ph.D., was pastor of Park Cities Baptist Church, a 10,000-member congregation in Dallas, Texas. He also pastored churches in Midland and Mansfield, Texas, and in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and received a Doctor of Divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University. He is also the the author of seven books.

Sunday, February 17, 2013

Today in the PC-USA Mission Yearbook

The Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study is a daily devotional with 365 inspiring mission stories that come from next door and all across the globe. It inspires thousands of Presbyterians daily as they uphold the mission of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in intercessory prayer. The stories in the 2013 Mission Yearbook were gathered around the question of Jesus to his disciples, “How many loaves have you?” from Mark 6:38. The book is filled with stories of God’s abundance in the face of overwhelming needs and a scarcity of resources.

Today in the Mission Yearbook: February 17, 2013

MINUTE FOR MISSION: HEALTH AWARENESS, AND PRAYER FOR HEALING - The church is called to be a healing presence in the world today. “Then Jesus summoned his twelve disciples and gave them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to cure every disease and every sickness” (Matt. 10:1).

Bob Kidd, an elder at Trinity Presbyterian Church in East Liverpool, Ohio, lost his beloved wife, Karen, on May 1, 2009. Nine days later he began an effort to set aside a day of prayer for healing. He wrote: “I have been doing quite a bit of thinking and have noticed that there are days of prayer across the United States for different reasons. I would like to start a day of prayer for the eradication of cancer and for healing and comfort for the people that are fighting this disease.”

CLICK HERE to read more.

Lenten Devotional for Sunday, February 17

Dr. Jim Denison's 2013 collection of Lenten devotionals is entitled, "If My People..." and comes at a time that he believes "a Fifth Great Awakening is sweeping the nations, as more people are coming to Christ than ever before in Christian history. How can you join this great movement of God's Spirit?" He goes on to write, "in this year's Lenten devotional guide, we will walk each day with King Solomon as he leads his nation into God's presence and glory. We will commit ourselves to our Father's purpose and experience his transforming power. And we will claim his promise: 'If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land' (2 Chronicles 7:14). 'If My People ...' is more than a Lenten guide - it is God's invitation to intimacy with him. Please join us on this joyous journey."

CLICK HERE for a free copy of Dr. Denison's 2013 Lenten Devotional (in a downloadable/printable Adobe .pdf file)


Sunday, February 17
Have you wronged your neighbor?

The Day America Told the Truth is a revealing look into our nation's soul. Its authors asked thousands of Americans about their personal lives and habits. The confidential answers they received tell us more about ourselves than we may want to know. For instance, 74 percent of us say "I will steal from those who won't really miss it." And 91 percent of us admit that we lie regularly.

As Solomon continued his service of dedication at the temple, he prayed: "When a man wrongs his neighbor and is required to take an oath and he comes and swears the oath before your altar in this temple, then hear from heaven and act" (2 Chronicles 6:22-23). How many of us need such repentance today?

Jesus defined our "neighbor" as anyone who needs us (Luke 10:25-37). His second Great Commandment is to "love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:39, quoting Leviticus 19:18). Would your neighbors say that you are obedient to this command? When was the last time it cost you something signi cant to help someone in need?

On this fifth day of Lent, would you ask the Spirit to show you any relational sins in your life? Would you then confess them to the Lord, asking him to cleanse you so that you might be an instrument of spiritual awakening?



Prior to founding the Denison Forum on Truth and Culture, James C. Denison, Ph.D., was pastor of Park Cities Baptist Church, a 10,000-member congregation in Dallas, Texas. He also pastored churches in Midland and Mansfield, Texas, and in Atlanta, Georgia. He earned his Ph.D. in Philosophy of Religion and Master of Divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, and received a Doctor of Divinity degree from Dallas Baptist University. He is also the the author of seven books.