Online House Church Community

I've gotten to the point that I can't remain silent any longer. Caleb and 3500 other Oregon National Guard soldiers are being deployed, many for the second time, to Iraq. I'm joining the Campaign to Keep the Oregon Guard in Oregon. The effort empowers the governor to withhold Oregon Guard units except under certain conditions.

Brethren, I could use some prayer for wisdom here.

As you may know I've been teaching on a weekly basis for over a year now at a church called MacArthur Blvd. Christian Church in Vancouver. I've been having a great time, really, because I love to teach through the word and, even though I can't imagine doing church outside of a small, simple and committed community, I also have a great love for the church no matter what form it takes.

I meant to keep a running blog on the goings on in the Fox Valley, but got carried away with fellowship with the guys that I have really come to appreciate. There was a sweet passion for unity among the brethren that spanned the traditions that were represented. What a great joy to see brethren from different churches and denominations choose to worship and pray together for the simple joy of being in the presence of the Lord. Praise God!

Well, here I am again in America's Dairyland. My annual pilgrimage to Green Lake conference center has begun. I've been coming here for several years to facilitate the prayer summit for the pastors in the Fox Valley. I meet up with my dear friend and brother, Otis Banks from Philly to pray with a bunch of guys that I have come to love and admire. It's like having a second family here.

I got a much anticipated chance to visit with the Hilltop Fellowship. Met up with the Hempels, the Kings, the Crombies and enjoyed the hospitality of the Hilkiahs.

We had a "plowmans Platter." and enjoyed talking around the table about good news--bicycles and grandparents figured prominently among the kids!

I am spending a few days at the coast praying with some pastor friends. Most of us have prayed together for 18 years. There is a welcome rest in being on the coast where I can walk near the relentless surf.

I just read the CNN report of a remarkable meeting between the parents of two slain sisters at the New Life Church and the parents of the boy who killed them.