First Thoughts

Thoughts from Guatemala

Martin Nicholas — Wed, 02 Apr 2008 14:40:00 +0000

Over the past few days, our medical mission team to Antiqua Guatemala has been ministering to dozens of patients in the Obras hospital. These patients have traveled to this small town where the church has built a clinic with four operating rooms, all under the support of Faith in Practice, which is the Houston mission that we support as a church.Currently, about 20 members from our congregation are joined with another 12 people, forming the surgical and support teams. Each day, nearly 20 operations are performed on Guatemalans of all ages while their families stay in the Casa de Fe ( House of Faith) which was built and has been maintained by Faith in Practice.

My task has been to help my daughter, Marianne, cook for the team and to pray with the patients before surgery. My heart has been touched by the strong faith of the patients who have come to a town for the first time and face the unsettling prospect of walking into a hospital. Yet, God is evident and His peace is felt by all.

Yesterday, I journeyed into the hills surrounding this city to visit a place where Habitat for Humanity has built six simple concrete block homes with 500 square feet each. These will house six families whose parents work for the Obras church and hospital. It was such a joy to deliver 7500 dollars which Sugar Land Methodist raised to connect the sewer, water and electricity to the homes so the families can move into their new homes and leave behind the tin and cardboard houses now. Continue to pray for this team and its healing presence in this poor country.

Journeys

Martin Nicholas — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 14:51:00 +0000

It seems that every day, the traffic in Sugar Land increases and frustrations grow as well. As more people move to the community, as more stores are built and as more offices are constructed, the number of cars and trucks swells and the streets are clogged. Then, complications always seem to arise. Due to the changing nature of our community, the major roads are under extensive construction and improvement, but in the meantime, motorists are required to navigate the confusion and complications as best they can. Detours, road closures and warning delays constantly interrupt the normal flow of traffic, not to mention the untimely and unfortunate accidents that occur, causing long lines of cars.

All of the traffic issues make it increasingly difficult to journey to the destinations where we travel. A quick trip to the store now can require more time. A visit to a friends house or to the gym means leaving earlier than before. The roads around our schools are filled with cars and it takes more time even to travel to church.

Jesus, during his ministry of teaching and healing, travelled all throughout Israel
for three years. During the last months of his life, he made an important and necessary journey as he set his course toward Jerusalem and the events that would lead to his execution, his death and his glorious resurrection. That journey, which started in Galilee, ended in Jerusalem on the cross of Calvary and the empty tomb in the garden.

Along the road as he travelled, Jesus did not encounter the kinds of complications and challenges that you and I face in our daily trips, but his encounters with people along the road and in the villages and towns can be enlightening and helpful to us today. He encountered men and women who needed to hear the good news of salvation that he offered, who needed to feel his healing and transforming touch on their lives and who needed to be challenged to believe and follow him.

Over the next few weeks, during the holy season of Lent, I invite you to join me in worship as we examine these encounters on the road with Jesus. I know and trust that you will discover new insight for your life and new hope and confidence that God is with you on the journey that you make every day as a child of God.

God's Holy Plan

Martin Nicholas — Fri, 21 Dec 2007 15:32:00 +0000

The news the last several days has been filled with reports of Jamie Lynn Spears, the 16 year old sister of Brittany Spears. Jamie Lynn has been the popular star of the successful television series "Zoey 101" on the Nickelodeon network. In this show, she plays a perfect, well-liked, virginal teenager and, according to the New York Times, the show has attracted a large audience among the youth of our country as the show won wide acclaim as a sanctuary from the hypersexualized culture of our youth.Now, however, this 16 year old has become pregnant, once again demonstrating the pressures and temptations thrust upon the students in our communities.

The irony is that this holy season, we announce and celebrate the birth of one who came to redeem not only our lives but also the world itself. Jesus was born to reveal God's love to us and to call us to accept that love and live in it. A new way of living and a new set of values are the gifts God offers us in the birth of Jesus on Christmas morning. And, Jesus was born to a teenage mother, who found herself pregnant by the Holy Spirit.

Mary faced the pressures and challenges of her day and we can in no way underestimate the precarious predicament that confronted her. Her family could have abandoned her, unwilling to face the shame of a daughter not yet married who was with child. Joseph, her fiance, could likewise have cruelly and publicly discarded her. All the villagers in the tiny hamlet of Nazerth could have been vindictive in their judgement and criticism. Yet, Mary was faithful to God's holy plan and became the obedient servant of God despite the risk and cost.

As I ponder the irony of God coming to earth in a teenage virgin in light of the today's headlines, I realize that God chose to come in such a humble and unpredictable manner so that we could only respond in faith and belief according to God's terms. God appeared in a way radically different than humanity could expect or manipulate. The unassuming advent of God in a manger in Bethlehem to poor peasants, witnessed by shepherds requires and demands our trust in God, not in any preconceived notions about God that we have developed nor in our own intellect, achievements or abilities.

This Christmas, may you be open to the mystery of God and the surprising way God greets you. When you respond with trust, like Mary, God will bless you and God will direct your path. May our world see that there is truly a better way to live than the values of Hollywood or the seduction of popular celebrity status.

A Bethlehem Visit

Martin Nicholas — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 18:04:00 +0000

On my first journey to Bethlehem, I was struck by a sight that truly left an imprint on my heart and mind about God's revelation in Jesus. The trip from Jerusalem to Bethlehem is not long and as soon as the crowded city of Jerusalem is passed, a stretch of fields can be seen along the highway just a short distance from Bethlehem. In fact, Bethlehem is visible on the approaching hillside from the fields, which even to this day are used by shepherds to tend sheep.

When I stopped to watch the shepherds in the field, I looked beyond the city of Bethlehem and saw a massive fortress shaped like a hill called the Herodian. This structure was built by King Herod as a fort to protect him from any rebellion or insurrection. After constructing a tall, strong fortress, the sides of the Herodian were covered with dirt and soil to appear as a hill and camouflage this place of last refuge and safety. In fact, just recently, a tomb has been discovered in the ruins of the Herodian, which may contain the remains of this cruel, vindictive ruler.

It seemed to me, looking at the fort in the distance, Bethlehem on the hillside and the shepherd's field before me that it can be easy at times to miss God's presence in our lives and in our world. Even though magi from the Orient informed Herod of the birth of a special child, he did not comprehend. His quest for power, control and authority blinded him to God's reality and activity. Remember, in fear and insecurity, Herod ordered the execution of children in Bethlehem in order to remove any possible threat or pretender to his power.

But it was poor, humble shepherds who sensed the promise of God and journeyed expectantly into Bethlehem to see the child Jesus. In trust and faith, they witnessed the advent of God into our world. God became flesh. Emmanuel, God with us, was born to show us God's love and to redeem our lives so we can live in relationship with God.

With the pace and activity of the Christmas season, it is an ever present temptation to lose sight of God in our midst. We can easily become absorbed by the demands and the attractions of the season and fail to spend time in worship, seeking God. I hope that, unlike Herod who followed his own will and way, you will rather come to God this Christmas like the humble, faithful shepherds.

Discover Christmas Time

Martin Nicholas — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 19:38:00 +0000

Christmas time produces a wide range of emotions and feelings in many of us. The holiday season before and even after Christmas Day is filled with preparation, shopping, travel and activities unlike any other time of the year. For so many, the impact of all the Christmas rush can leave an accompanying sense of anxiety, depression or sadness. During the holidays, it is easy to overspend, overeat and over indulge. Families are scattered around the world, making it difficult to join together in celebration of the birth of Christ into our world.

Even though Jesus was born in the midst of chaos and bedlam in ancient Bethlehem, God has promised us the gift of peace, joy, hope and love and God has delivered the perfect present in Christ. Joseph and Mary, while struggling to understand fully God’s plan for them, overcame their confusion and doubt to discover the rich blessing God offered them. Likewise, shepherds from fields and Magi from the Orient came to witness the love of God for the world revealed in Jesus and were changed by it.

This Christmas, find time to pause, slow down and become aware of the hurried pace that has the potential to overwhelm and capture you. Make a special effort to place yourself in a setting, like the characters of the first Christmas morn, where God can break through the hustle and rush of your life and touch you. Give yourself an opportunity to hear the Christmas story and find that the ordinary routine of your world can be transformed by the extraordinary power of God.

Christmas time is a time to discover, to behold and to worship. May God greet you in a new way this Christmas season.

Risks

Martin Nicholas — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 19:19:00 +0000

Have you ever noticed how muscles require exercise? In order for a muscle to be healthy and vigorous, it must maintain itself by movement and activity. Once a muscle deteriorates, a routine of exercise must be followed to restore the strength and flexibility.

The same is true with the gifts that God gives us. God is a generous, loving Heavenly Father who willingly showers gifts and graces on our lives. In fact, the air we breathe, even the day we have, have been bestowed to us by God. Our lives, our talents and abilities, our time and treasure have been granted to us as gifts from God. It is these gifts that God expects us to use in a way that demonstrates our love of God and our concern for people.

In other words, God expects a return on the blessings in our lives. They are not to be hoarded or held as if they belong to us or came from us. Our blessings, our resources and our lives are to be dedicated to God, taking risks with them to help build God's Kingdom.

The temptation, however, is to play it safe and secure, to be cautious and reluctant, and keep our resources for ourselves. But God can unlock your heart and you can discover the joy of releasing who you are and what you have to Him. You can see with gratitude that every moment and encounter is a gift from God. You can risk offering a return to God with the confidence that your blessings will bless others. And you can accept God's reward that comes to faithful and devoted followers of Jesus.

I hope you take the risk and use what God has given you.

Perspectives

Martin Nicholas — Thu, 08 Nov 2007 21:42:00 +0000

The night that I discovered that I needed glasses to see objects in the distance has been etched in my memory. It was as a ninth grader that I visited an ice skating show with my family and some cousins. In the dark arena, the skaters became distorted whenever that crossed the large skating rink and I was unable to focus on them with clarity and precision. However, one of my cousins, who had been wearing corrective lenses for years, suggested that I look through hers and see if it made any difference.

Was I ever in for a shock. The ability to see seemed to improve instantly for me and I discovered what I had been missing for months, even years. Perhaps my vision slowly altered at a such a slow pace that I was unaware of the the constant erosion that was occurring. In any case, the change of perspective was drastic.

When God unlocks our hearts, a change of perspective occurs as well. We see that our treasure and our time are all gifts from our Heavenly Father, to be offered to God and used to build God's Kingdom. When our hearts are touched and transformed, we can make new priorities about our money and lifestyle so that this new perspective liberates us and our hearts are not clouded by debt or confused by materialism. This new perspective allows us to see the shape and condition of our lives with godly focus and clarity so that we become aligned with our Creator instead of the objects of the creation and worship God instead of something other than God.

Maybe your vision has slowly become clouded over time. Maybe you need to allow the Holy Spirit to alter and adjust your perspective so you discover all the blessings God offers and gives you instead of simply taking them for granted. This new perspective will allow you to prioritize your life in a new way by bringing a careful focus and understanding to the difference between what you want and what you truly need. As God unlocks your heart, you will discover the satisfying joy that comes when you can freely and generously release what you have in love of God and in support of others.

Saints not Goblins

Martin Nicholas — Wed, 31 Oct 2007 20:57:00 +0000

As I compose this on Halloween evening, my thoughts are not revolving around the young trick or treaters that will frequent my door in search of candy for their bags. Their nocturnal visits will be a treat themselves as they proudly display their costumes. The parade of princesses, pirates, Batman outfits and skeletons always delights me and makes the evening entertaining.

Instead, my thoughts and my heart are directed toward tomorrow, which is All Saints Day. Throughout many centuries of the early church's history, All Saints Day was celebrated as one of the holiest days of the Christian year, along with Easter, Christmas and Pentecost. It was the day to visit the churches and give God thanks for all the saints that touched and blessed our lives, leading us into a relationship with Jesus Christ by their witness. In fact, Halloween, or All Hallowed's Eve, began as the community's evening party before All Saints Day.

Maybe one reason that All Saints has lost its presence and prominence in the current church's life is the confusion over the word "saint." The Bible calls every believer who is a devoted follower of Jesus a saint, which means to be called out by God and to be distinguishable from others through loving deeds and actions in God's name. A saint, in other words, is an ordinary person who loves God and attempts to live by faith in the power of the Holy Spirit.

It has been these common, everyday saints that have made a difference in my life. They led me to God who unlocked my heart and offer the peace beyond human understanding and a joy to trust God in spite of the circumstances of my life. These saints demonstrated Christian love in action by their sacrificial acts of kindness and compassion to others. They showed my and taught me not to trust my possessions but first to give to God with my money and treasure and learn to depend on God's provision to meet my needs.

So, tonight, as the goblins and ghosts ring my doorbell, I will recall those Halloween nights when I filled my bag with candy. Yet, all the while, I will look toward tomorrow when I will reflect on the saints, both living and dead, who have meant and still mean so much to me. I thank God for them.

Locked Doors

Martin Nicholas — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 15:09:00 +0000

Have you ever unwittingly locked your keys in your car and were unable to open the doors and drive away? There may not be a more frustrating and humiliating moment than that discovery that in your haste and oversight, the keys to unlock the car are inside.

Whenever I have had such a misfortunate episode, it seems to be when I am in a hurry and the delay that is the result creates difficulties for me. It becomes impossible to be where I am scheduled to be and to meet with the people that are waiting on me. My anxiety and frustration increase. It is natural to worry about the ensuing problems that will arise because I cannot travel or move. On top of it all, I have to determine how I can unlock the car without damaging the windows or doors or triggering the alarm system with no one to stop the noise.

God has designed our hearts to be unlocked. Paul states in Ephesians that we are "to live through love in God's presence (Eph 1.4)." God desires that we open our hearts and receive the love offered to us in Jesus, our savior, and return that love to God, as well as share it with the world around us. This is only possible when our hearts have been unlocked and we become receptive to our Heavenly Father.

If we ignore God's grace and mercy and our hearts remain stubborn, defiant and locked, then the blessings that follow if we would "live through love in God's presence" are missing. Like the paralysis that overtakes someone whose keys are locked in a car, it becomes difficult to move through life with the hope and peace God promises. Frustration, anxiety and fear can increasingly shape a person's outlook and perspective. Our lives can bear the wounds and damages of destructive and harmful decisions.

Remember how Jesus said that he stands at the door and knocks (Rev 3.20). If the door of our heart is opened, Jesus offers the refreshment, peace and joy of a relationship with him. Like the locks of your car, the key is in your hand.

The Silk Road

Martin Nicholas — Tue, 16 Oct 2007 19:39:00 +0000

If someone had told me that I would have the good fortune to visit both China and Turkey during 2007, my reaction would have been one of unbelief. However, I surprisingly took a trip to the Orient in the spring with Jack Rhea, the missionary in Hong Kong that our church supports, and I just returned from leading a group of church members to Greece and Turkey to visit the sites where Paul ministered.

Since both of these trips were not part of my long-range planning, I have reflected on the lessons that God had for me to discover and to learn and it seems to me that the ancient Silk Road may be part of what God wants me to see. In Xian, the ancient capital of China, our group stopped for a group picture at a sculpture depicting the origin of the Silk Road which started in Xian and led westward. Then, in Istanbul, our knowledgeable guide showed us the bazaar which was, in all practicalities, the end of the Silk Road. Here, when Istanbul was known as Constantinople, the goods that traveled from the Orient along the Silk Road were purchased to be shipped to the markets throughout Europe.

Leaving the ancient bazaar, I understood in a new and profound way the passion of the new converts and leaders of the church in China who are committed to taking the saving gospel of Jesus Christ "back to Jerusalem." This rally cry, "Back to Jerusalem," is lifted in prayer, taught from the pulpit and believed in the congregations throughout China and it is the conviction of these Christians that the church, as it grows in China, will take the gospel westward into the lands from India, Iran, Iraq and further. God has placed a calling on the Chinese to take the gospel into the lands of Asia, along the paths and highways of the old Silk Road, and offer redemption and forgiveness through the name of Jesus.

Watching the busy crowds in Istanbul, I was struck by the sense of alienation and confusion in that important city. Even though the country of Turkey reportedly is 99% Islamic, it appeared that any religious expression was largely cultural and that people, especially the youth and young adults, followed a secular lifestyle. I also had an impression that Christianity was not welcomed, at least from a westerner like myself. Each night, late into the hours, as the streets filled with pedestrians, it became clear why God has placed upon the hearts of the emerging church in China a passion to take the love of Jesus west into the Islamic world.

Pray for the church in China. Pray for the gospel to penetrate the lands from China back to Jerusalem. Pray that the Silk Road, once the avenue for spices, silk and porcelain, now will become the passageway for the church to send missionaries with the message of hope that only Christ can give to a lost and confused part of the world

Contrasts in Greece

Martin Nicholas — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 04:51:00 +0000

It is morning in Delphi, the site of the famous oracles of Delphi from antiquity that attempted to forecast the events for generals, diplomats, rulers and people throughout the Hellenistic world. As I view this beautiful landscape that attracted so many, I am struck by the difference in the desire to have our fortunes told and the prophetic word of God that speaks to our present condition and shapes our hearts and lives for the future. God does not promise us the knowledge to see every detail of an upcoming event or day but does promise us that we can depend on His faithfulness and presence. Whatever comes our way is not the fate that God has determined for us and we can stand in hope that God is in control and that His grace is sufficient for our needs.

A Pilgrim's Thoughts

Martin Nicholas — Sun, 23 Sep 2007 11:15:00 +0000

Today, our pilgrimage has visited first Patmos and now have just arrived at Ephesus. In both of these cities, the first evangelists were tested when they shared their faith. John was a prisoner on Patmos when he received the revelation from God and composed the last book of the bible as the Spirit led him. Paul stayed in Ephesus longer than any other city and preached and taught for several years. While in Ephesus, he was threatened by the silversmiths who made their living selling idols of the goddess Artemis.

Both early church leaders found their path difficult and challenging but both remained faithful to God's calling on their lives. In face of hardship, they trusted God's faithfulness to sustain and equip them. They found that behind their problems, God had a purpose.

On this Sunday morning, as we worshiped beside the cave where St John composed the Book of Revelation during his imprisonment, we were reminded that God can still be trusted. Our only challenge is to remain open and receptive, letting God's spirit give us strength.

Learning

Martin Nicholas — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 14:00:00 +0000

With the arrival of fall, school starts in full swing and life changes in our community and homes. The schedule suddenly becomes busier with activities, classes, homework and programs. All of it has a purpose; that is, that we grow and develop through the study and classwork, increasing our knowledge and understanding of the world around us.

As Christians, the same is true. God expects that we grow and mature as followers of Jesus. In order to become fully devoted followers of Christ, we must be learners. Do you remember how Jesus told his disciples in the Gospel of John that we are to love one another in the same manner that Jesus loved them. In other words, we need to know how Jesus lived, what his values were, how he depended on prayer, the way he treated the poor, needy and neglected, as well as other aspects of his life.

Hopefully, you realize the necessity of study and growth as a Christian and are engaged in learning, mission work, prayer and worship to mature as the person God created you to be. One way to develop is to read. Just as students in our schools and colleges are given reading lists to guide their study, it is helpful for you and me to design our own list to guide us. With that in mind, let me let you know what I have been reading recently.

Beginning with Jesus: Christ in Scripture, the Church and Discipleship by Joel Green
Giving: Unlocking the heart of Good Stewardship by John Ortberg, Laurie Pederson and Judson Poling
Paul: a Man of Grace and Grit by Charles Swindoll
Holy Discontent by Bill Hybels
Contrarian Leadership by Stephen Sample

Letting God talk to you in a book is a blessing and I hope that you can find the time to learn and grow as God will guide.

Overcoming Storms

Martin Nicholas — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 20:30:00 +0000

Storms come in many forms. The devastation and havoc of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita are still evident along the coast of the Mississippi gulf and the town of New Orleans. Just last week, while attending a meeting hosted by the Bishop's Task Force for Katrina relief, I witnessed that the reconstruction of the city and the coastline is slowly occurring, but lives are still effected daily by the incredible loss of homes, industry, hospitals, stores and infrastructure.

One way that God has been at work in the aftermath of that storm is through the United Methodist Church. Through UMCOR, our church's global relief team, nearly 70 million dollars has been raised to assist alleviating humanitarian needs. Thousands of Methodist volunteers and millions of dollars have also been raised to help rebuild churches and strengthen the ministries and staffs of local congregations on the coast. God is at work overcoming storms.

However, I was struck by one storm that is still brewing. For years, the Seashore Mission of the UMC has been meeting the needs of the homeless in the Biloxi and Gulfport area of Mississippi until it was totally swept away in the wave surge and wind of Katrina. Now, as the church endeavors to restore that ministry to the hundreds of homeless in the area, the city governments are becoming an obstacle. It seems that the authorities are pleased to welcome gambling casinos to their cities but not a ministry that reaches out to the poor, needy and destitute with the love of Christ.

As I listened to the report of the struggle to rebuild Seashore Mission, I remembered a story in the pages of the New Testament. Jesus calmed the storm one night on the Sea of Galilee as his disciples trembled in fear and uncertainty, afraid that the storm might prevail and that they might perish. God has a habit of calming storms. Is there something brewing in your heart or life that needs the calming touch of a loving God?

Finding Your Place

Martin Nicholas — Sat, 30 Jun 2007 14:17:00 +0000

It seemed to be the most important day of my young life. For weeks, I prepared for the upcoming Saturday morning tryout for my junior high school basketball team. My best friend, Ray, and I would work long and hard practicing our shots, improving our dribbling skills and developing our endurance, all in eager expectation of dazzling the coaches and becoming a member of the team.On the evening of the long anticipated morning, Ray and I stayed awake half the night plotting our strategy and building our confidence. We were prepared to out shoot, out jump and out run all the other students to earn our coveted place.

The gym on Saturday was crowded with hopeful candidates, their parents and friends and the watchful eyes of the coaches with their stern and focused looks. Quickly we were put through the paces. The coaches led us through various drills and exercises to evaluate our skill, talent and ability. All morning long, Ray and I impressed the coaches as we demonstrated our expertise side by side. Or, so I thought.

The first indication of my impending demise came when the coaches separated the candidates into two categories at opposite ends of the gym. That was the first time Ray and I were separated. He made the team and I did not.

In the days that followed that disappointing Saturday, I learned two important lessons that have remained with me to this day. First, I discovered that not everyone is created the same. We do not all posses the same talent, capabilities, personalities, interests and passions. The skills in a sporting event, the musical tastes, the way we dress and the food that we prefer all differ from person to person. God made us all different and unique. The variety and diversity of God's design make the world more interesting, complete and challenging. God has created a rich tapestry of beauty and grace.

Secondly, I learned that there is a place for me. Shortly after the infamous day of junior high tryouts, the churches in my community organized a basketball league where I played for several years. During that competition, I made friends that lasted for years and am still grateful for the opportunity to play and have fun in that league.

These two lessons can be learned and appreciated over and over by us all. Thank God that we are all created uniquely and that God has a purpose and a plan for us each. God uses the unique and diverse shape of each persons's life to help build His kingdom and to be His witness in every arena of life. Your interests, abilities, personality and experiences are blended with the spiritual gifts God bestows in your life to be displayed in love in the places and with the people of your life. You are loved by God as a special child of your Heavenly Father and God has a place for you to show that love to all.

God's Fruit

Martin Nicholas — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 16:08:00 +0000

Tomatoes...When I was young, I never liked tomatoes. They were never appealing to me and I avoided them at all costs. If served on a sandwich or in a salad, the tomatoes would be removed before I began to eat my meal.

That was true until I met my wife Pat. Pat had developed an appreciation for many vegetables that I had spent a childhood diligently dedicated to avoiding and during the time of our courtship she introduced me to many exotic samplings from her father's garden. These included squash, okra, eggplant, radishes and, yes, tomatoes. It did not take long before I was convinced that my childhood had been deprived of a rich bounty of tastes and flavors that God provided in fresh vegetables.

Now, however, I have a problem with tomatoes. It seems that the fresh, vibrant tomatoes from homegrown gardens are hard to find. Instead, the supermarkets have substituted vegetables that have been grown under large, corporate conditions to produce huge quantities at a low cost.
These tomatoes that seem to adorn our plates and dishes, in other words, fail to have the flavor that I have grown to love.

The Bible teaches us that our lives are to bear the Fruit of the Spirit (Galations 5.22-26), which can only be done through a relationship with Jesus by the presence and power of the Holy Spirit (John 15.1-8). The Holy Spirit will produce the very character, love and grace of Jesus in our lives. In order for our hearts and habits to reflect Jesus' love, we must let the Holy Spirit cultivate our roots, eliminate the weeds in our lives and prune them so that fruit can be produced. Whenever we seek God's will for our lives and engage in the practices of worship, bible study, prayer, fellowship and service, the Holy Spirit feeds and nourishes us so that the fruit produced in us is zestful, attractive and pleasing.

What the world needs to see and to experience is Christians producing wholesome and beautiful fruit, the Fruit of the Spirit. Too often, an unattractive, tasteless substitute has been offered for the real thing. As we study together the work of the Holy Spirit in our worship this month, I hope you ask God to work within you and to develop fruit that can touch a life and offer to another what you have discovered in God. Who knows, someone may come to enjoy life in Christ the same way I learned to love homegrown tomatoes.

Stretching

Martin Nicholas — Thu, 10 May 2007 20:57:00 +0000

Last Sunday, Adam Clarke in the church's communication department developed a humorous, make-believe "MySpace" page for me. I was identified as "Rev. Squash Man," which was a reference to the sport of squash racquets that I love to play.

What I have discovered as I try to play squash, or any sport for that matter, is the truth that stretching makes a difference. In fact, it makes a difference in any area of my life, not just in sports. However, stretching is not easy. It is rigorous and demanding. It is easier to postpone or avoid altogther. But the benefits of a regular routine are so noticable.

At times, I have noticed how I try to avoid the times and places where God tries to stretch my faith and obedience. It is far more comfortable to stay in control of my own life and to follow the pace and plan that I set for myself than to trust God for direction and purpose. However, just as physical stretching helps me be limber and achieve more, so it is when God spiritually stretches me. I discover that my faith becomes stronger and more vigorous; that I can see God at work more clearly; that I find God's purpose for me and that I become sure that God will accomplish what was started. The same power that raised Jesus from the dead can be at work in and through my life allowing me to trust in God's character and rely on God's promises. It is then, when I trust God and stretch my faith, that I find how faithful and powerful God is.

Have you thought about letting God stretch you? Where might be the area of your life that needs stretching?

A Living Witness

Martin Nicholas — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 19:50:00 +0000

As the world continues to change and alter at such an increasing pace, life seems fragile and unpredictable for so many people. Old traditions either change or are discarded altogether. New forms of communication continue to affect everyone. Along with the advances in electronic communication, travel and relocation are rising and the world grows smaller and smaller by the day.

With all the uncertainty and change, the witness of the church has remained faithful through the ages and still offers to people and to nations the life-changing message of Jesus Christ. I was recently reminded of the impact that our church's witness can make on young children's lives, which are the most vulnerable in this age of transition. Our church launched the "Townewest Project" in which we support Townewest Elementary School, which has over 50% of its students living under poverty conditions, with the goal to help it become the strongest, best school in the school district. To that end, work-days have been held to beautify the grounds of the school, we have collected and distributed school supplies for hundreds of students before each school year, the Giving Tree outreach program at Christmas has provided gifts and food to dozens of families and we hold teacher training and appreciation events on our campus, just to mention a few of the ministries that support the school.

For our efforts, we were awarded a TAPE award (Texas Association of Partners in Education) recently in Austin, and, as proud as the congregation is for this recognition, our service, however, has been done in the hope that our witness can make a difference in a student's life. We serve and care to share the love of God with others, especially the young and those in need.

There is an episode on the seashore in Galilee described in the Gospel of John when Peter was given a second chance to demonstrate his love for Jesus. You might recall this familiar exchange in which Jesus asked Peter three times if Peter loved him. Three times, Peter had to answer that he, indeed, did love Jesus. After each inquiry and response, Peter was instructed by Jesus to feed and tend his sheep, that is, to love and care for Jesus' flock. In other words, our witness of love and care is to be a living witness, one that is discernible and visible in the world. Our witness, made in word and deed, should feed people both spiritually with the word of God and physically with provision for their needs. That, like Peter, is how we show our love of Jesus.

Fine Lines

Martin Nicholas — Thu, 19 Apr 2007 15:21:00 +0000

Have you ever noticed the "fine lines" in our lives? Sometimes, it is only a fine line between speeding in an automobile and observing the legal limit. The same is true at a four-way stop sign. It is only a fine line between a complete stop or rolling through the intersection. At school, a fine line of a single point on a test or exam can be the difference between an A or a B; a passing grade or a failing grade. In music, a fine line separates a note or chord that is harmonious and pleasing to the ear or one that is discordant and out of tune.

The horrendous, unspeakable tragedy that occured this week on the campus of Virginia Tech sadly demonstrates another fine line that was crossed. In life, we all have experienced disillusionments and disappointments. Life is never fair. Each and every person has been wounded by others' words, actions and attitudes. We all carry scars from past injuries, not just physical, but emotional, relational, psychological and spiritual.

Yet, there is a fine line between disappointment and anger; between hurt and hate; between bitterness and blame. Cho crossed that line with cruel and inhumane violence that is totally incomprehensible and beyond explanation or justification. I grieve for the families and friends of the victims of this sensless, brutal act and encourage you to join with me in prayer for them.

As I pray and as I grieve, I am reminded of the One who will help anyone not cross a line or boundary that will lead to disaster or pain. It is our Lord that will turn our hurts to hope whenever we trust and follow him. It is God who will sustain us in our confusion and disappointments by calming the storms in our soul. May God touch the hearts of those who have lost loved ones and may God touch and heal all our hearts so we live with dignity and respect of others, with love and grace, with forgiveness and mercy.

The Empty Tomb

Martin Nicholas — Thu, 05 Apr 2007 23:21:00 +0000

The world is filled with religions. Across the globe in many regions and places, people are led to seek God through religious rites, ceremonies and practices in the hope of appeasing and pleasing God. Easter, however, is the glorious moment when God proved his love for all the world by emerging from the tomb. It is the day of resurrection in which God offers to everyone the chance to experience life with him through faith. The empty tomb is the promise that each person can have a relationship with the living Lord of life who conquered death and forgave our sins. The faith of Easter is a relationship with God, not a religion.

Over the decades, the empty tomb has been attacked by critics and skeptics. Many theories have been expressed, such as those seen in recent books like The DaVinci Code and others, that either Jesus never died or that the body of Jesus was secretly removed. These attacks have argued that the resurrection never happened, the tomb was not empty and that the claims of Christians are nothing more than a hoax on the world.

Yet the promise of a relationship with God through the forgiveness offered to us in Jesus Christ proves that the tomb was empty. Jesus walked the hill of Calvary and willingly was nailed to the cross for the sins of the world in order that our lives and the world might be redeemed. He breathed his last breath on the day we surprisingly call Good Friday knowing that on Easter morning he would rise from the day and leave the empty tomb to offer us life as it is meant to be lived.

Worship with us this Easter as we celebrate the relationship that we have with the living God. Our services are at 9:00, 10:10 and 11:15. Happy Easter! He is risen!

Reflections on China

Martin Nicholas — Tue, 03 Apr 2007 21:20:00 +0000

Having returned from the two weeks in China, my body is exhausted but my mind and spirit are churning. The country is vast and huge beyond description; the pollution is so thick that at times it was hard to see across a street; the people are friendly and helpful and the cities are filled with millions of inhabitants.

As we traveled to the sites which are visited by tourists, I appreciated the richness of the culture and heritage of the land. The food was interesting, even though at times I was unsure what I was eating but actually enjoying most of the dishes. When we journeyed by train for 18 hours, the countryside was beautiful and cultivated.

However, what moved me the most and has stirred within me a hope and a desire was sensing the hand of God at work in China. The people of China have been led by the government to discount the reality and presence of God but faith and belief in Jesus Christ are growing at an inspiring rate. Men and women are dedicating their lives to sharing the gospel with unbelievers, even if it places their lives and security in peril. Over and over, the testimonies and witness to God's redemptive work were relayed to me and I saw the lives changed by the power of Christ.

As I left China, I was tired beyond description but I was challenged as well. God placed in my heart a desire and passion to see the gospel thrive in China and continue to transform millions of lives. Also, and maybe more importantly, I felt God showing me how much more faithful and obedient the church in our country can be. What would our community and neighborhoods look like if we lived our faith as sacrificially and dedicated as those I saw in China?

The Very Stones Will Cry Out

Martin Nicholas — Thu, 29 Mar 2007 19:52:00 +0000

Palm Sunday is the day that followers of Jesus remember and celebrate his sacrificial love, shown as he triumphantly entered Jerusalem on a carpet of palm branches and clothing. The day of his entry started the events of Holy Week, in which he taught daily in the Temple courtyard, was confronted and challenged by some because of his teachings, and celebrated a Last Supper with his disciples before he was betrayed, arrested, tried and sentenced to die on the cross of Calvary for our sins.

As Jesus traveled down the hillside of Mount Olivet towards Jerusalem that day, he reminded the crowds around him that if his followers did not lift praise to him, the very stones themselves would cry in witness to him. In other words, it is our privilege and joy to share the story of Jesus' amazing love and grace with a world that desperately needs to hear it.

Come and join us at Sugar Land First United Methodist this Sunday as we travel along the route with Jesus and into the world with his love.

Thoughts From China

Martin Nicholas — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 12:58:00 +0000

Hello from China! We arrived safely in Beijing, a world class city that is growing at a phenomenal rate. The people are friendly and lively. Our delightful traveling companions, a group from Alabama and Indiana, are as eager and enthusiastic as we are to learn about the history, land and culture of China.

We have been introduced to the ministry in China and what God is doing. The mission field is large and workers are ready to share their love and compassion with others. It is very encouraging. To read more about our mission partners, Dr. Jack and Celesta Rea, click here.

Our tour of the Forbidden City revealed the rich heritage of this country and today we are off to the Great Wall. Keep us in your prayers.

A World Changing

Martin Nicholas — Wed, 14 Mar 2007 14:07:00 +0000

In just a few short days, I will be traveling to China with Dr. Jack Rea, the missionary in Hong Kong that our church supports. Dr. Rea spoke to the 10:10 Bible Study and Fellowship classes early in October during our "Across the Street, Across the Sea" emphasis. Ever year, he leads a group or two across mainland China to see the sights and to witness the explosive growth and development of the country's economy that we hear so much about. While we travel as tourists, we will be visited by residents of China that have become Christian and are part of the expanding "house church movement" and we will hear their stories and testimonies of God's work in China which apparently is even more dramatic and impressive than the government's.

God is moving in China. It is estimated that between 10,000 to 30,000 Chinese are confessing faith in Jesus as Savior daily! It seems that many "mom and pop" stories are starting that cater to the needs of the millions of factory workers in the heavy industrial areas and also become the mission outposts to spread the good news of Jesus to the workers who are hungry for hope and wholeness in their lives. We all know how a country cannot maintain atheism as official doctrine. People are created to be in a relationship with the living God and respond willingly and faithfully when presented with the truth and the rapid evangelism of China is demonstrating the power of God in people's lives.

As I pack for this trip, my prayer is that God will show me where we, as a strong and vibrant community of faith with a heart to reach others with the love of Christ, can be used to help God touch hearts and transform lives. I have said countless times that the church of Christ is the hope of the world. Analysts, politicians and economists all tell us that China is emerging into a world power. If that is true, then God must be pleased whenever his church becomes involved in such a critical and transitional moment in history. Just imagine what the world could look like for the coming generations if China is evangelized! What a change that would be.

Reflections on the Season of Lent

Martin Nicholas — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 14:59:00 +0000

Today is Ash Wednesday and it is the day that the season of Lent begins. Lent recalls and celebrates the 40 days that our Savior spent fasting and praying in the wilderness, tempted by Satan, before he began his public ministry. During that time, Jesus demonstrated faithfulness and obedience to God as he denied the Devil's temptations and challenged him with the Word of God.

Throughout the centuries, Christians have observed Lent by typically "giving something up". It could be some time at the television or computer, sweets or chocolate or another activity that is rewarding and fun. This sacrifice usually has been understood to be an expression of faith in God and an act of discipline to remember both Christ's temptations in the wilderness and his death on the cross at Easter, which ends the season of Lent.

However, it is often easy to focus on what we do during Lent whenever we "give something up" instead of what God can do in our lives in this holy time of the year. Let me explain. In order to fill a glass with water, it must be empty. If it is full or nearly filled, it cannot receive as much as when it is empty. By our actions of devotion during this time of 40 Days of Community, God will touch our lives and fill our hearts with his compassion, grace and presence. Maybe God would be pleased more by your intentional and deliberate acts of love toward one another within the Body of Christ, the church, and toward those outside the community of faith. Perhaps that is what we should offer God this season of Lent. Perhaps that is what we should give God.

As we love in community- the church, our groups in the church and the world around us- God will fill our fellowship, our hearts and our ministry with his love. May your journey be a blessing,