Baltic Family Camp 2023

God certainly blessed our camp sesson this summer in numerous ways. Over 120 folks–missionaries, Christians, families–all came together in Moletai, Lithuania to enjoy a week together of praise, fellowship, study and encouragement. Countires represented at our camp included Lithuania, USA, Latvia, Estonia, Poland, Belarus, Ukraine, England, Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Spain and even India and Brazil.

Our theme was Redeemed. Each day adults, teens and children had opportunties to study together in classes designed just for them. Each night we gathered to worship together. It was a beautiful representation of God at work through our different cultures to bring us together as one. This was made even more meaningful considering the ever present war in that region that directly affected some of our campers. One sister from Kiev, Ukraine shared heart-wrenching stories about what she has witnessed and the consequences of this conflict for her, the church and families in that country. For her and others, the BFC served as a refuge from that ever-present tension. She is in the middle in the photo below.

One of the purposes of the BFC is to offer missionaries and Christian families the opportunity to enjoy a week of rest and retreat, while also providing them in-depth study and resources to help them navigate their local ministries. This year we were blessed to have Harding University professors, Drs. Tim and Anessa Westbrook as our guest Bible teachers and Mitch Anderson from the Czech Republic who, along with he wife, Monika, offer missonary care through their Caretakers ministry. Each brought to us their giftedness–blessing us through their teaching.

The BFC also brings back several adults who grew up attending youth camps in the area. It is always a sweet reunion. Many of these adults are now parents who bring their children. For instance, I first met Viktorija when she was around 13 yrs. old. She never missed a session of youth camp in Lithuania. This session at the BFC, her son, Adomis, who is now 13 was baptized into Christ! We all rejoiced with her, her family, the camp and the angels in heaven!

Of course, the BFC could not happen without the fantastic team who travel over from the states to teach; to serve; and to make sure everything is in place for those attending. It also could not take place without the support of my home congregation, the Levy Church of Christ or without the good work of my Lithuanian colleage, Ilia Amosov. God has blessed us with an exceptional team.

The above picture is of the five of us who were at the very first youth camp in Lithuania in 1998 including on the left–David Pryor, who along with his wife, Louriella come from Clinton, MS each year. He leads worship and she leads one of our kid’s classes. Also pictured with me from left are Zivile Puodziukaitiene, Viktorija Dapšienė and Vladimir Rancev.

We are already planning for next year, God willing. We are excited to share that Drs. Evertt and Ileene Huffard will return to be our guest Bible teachers. Please join us in praying for God to continue to work through our session this year and for his blessings as we plan for next year.

Here is the team from Levy who worked so hard to make the camp a success.

Redeemed: How I Love to Proclaim It

There is power in stories. There is great power in great stories. The greatest story every told is that of Jesus. It is the redeemption story. It is THE story of all-time. The story of God’s action, interaction, presence and relationship across all of history with people and creation. What is this story exactly? What is redemption and why should I be proclaiming it? Redemption is:

God’s work to set things right again—to reverse the fall and bring all things back into harmony with his will; to defeat sin and Satan and restore us back to full relationship with him.

It is a vast, historic, all-encompassing story spanning millennia involving known and unknown events and people in all corners of the globe. It is also a living story—playing out contemporarily in all manner of ways in all number of lives. At the center of the story is Jesus, of course. Without him there would be no redemption story at all. So—think about—from before creation and throughout all of what we know as the OT, the story of redemption is evident—God working thru people, places, nations to make his presence known, call people to Him, proclaim his desire for relationship, while foreshadowing the crescendo of the story—Jesus. Then comes Christ who personified the story; living out the very meaning of redemption; personally, demonstrating God’s desire for full, restored relationship with us while paying the price for redemption on the cross and empowering us to live it out through the resurrection.

Read Ephesians 1:3-11 for the apostle Paul’s divine summary of this story.

Then that actually happened as Acts and the New Testament epistles chronicle. Exciting! They were singing redemption’s sweet song as they went into all the world and shared the Good News of the redeemer—Jesus Christ. The grand story of redemption being actualized as people from all lands, all ethnicity and all tongues came to Christ and changed the world. This is the power found in redemption—to renew and bring freshness, healing and new life.

And God continues to act to this day–still working out this eternal story to its ultimate completion when Jesus returns and brings complete redemption to all creation. Yes, it is a huge story, but is also not—for it is also a personal story. We are quite familiar with individuals in the story—Noah, Abraham, Sarah, Ruth, Saul, Hannah, David, Solomon, Daniel, Mary, Joseph, Peter and Paul. God called and worked through them and untold others to move the redemption story along. We remain in it—involved in this continual movement. It is critical that we believe and realize this truth. What God started, what Jesus delivered, and what remains yet completed but promised—the story of the redemption of the world; God wants to be our personal story as well just like as with those before us. They are the collection of witnesses surrounding us and urging us to complete our own redemption story—Hebrews 12. Redemption is to be what defines us; what drives us; what determines every aspect of our life. Redemption is to be that transformative. God did not work through history and send his Son to die for IT NOT TO BE. So, as we proclaim redemption throughout this year. Here is what I hope and pray will happen;

*We will more fully realize the depth and width of God’s love for us and we will more greatly appreciate the lengths Gods went to bring redemption about.

*We will become more aware of the ongoing work of God in Christ as the redemption story continues to play out now around us and in creation. It is about more than me.

*We will more clearly and precisely see ourselves in this story and better understand exactly what that means; and then allow that to finally, completely define us—to become fully integrated into God’s redemption. For us to fully own his story. It is not just a history lesson!

*We will then more completely realize that this changes everything—perhaps most importantly that fully embracing the redeemed identity will reframe how we view ourselves, our purpose and mission; understanding we are only resident aliens here, that this world and all it values is not our home.

*We will then be more encouraged and ready go and proclaim it—to actually share God’s story of redemption thru our story—for there is power in this telling: the power to bring blessed redemption to others. And I mean really tell it; to allow the Holy Spirit to empower our witness to those around us.

*We will then be more able to live in a greater sense of anticipation of Christ’s return and the full redemption of all—to the degree that allows us to frame life and all its challenges as just light and momentary bumps in the eternal road knowing we will be redeemed from them all when Jesus returns.

Why is all of this so significant? Well, it is the eternal movement of God in the world and it is still ongoing. Seeing ourselves firmly within this story and understanding this not just to be God’s will, but the most significant way we can live our life is a game changer. And because it is largely missing among us. That is evident with churches dying and shrinking with what is left of us competing for the same crowd. It is realized in that most in the world remain unconvinced that God really matters beyond perhaps helping us get what we want to keep up our lifestyle.  Fewer and fewer seem to know or care that he actually is active among us—the living God continuing to accomplish his will in difference-making ways in the world. We, the church are not acting as if the story of redemption is the single greatest story of all. Therefore, it does seem like a dusty old history lesson, rather than a continual, living, story of life, renewal and power among us. Yes, we may acknowledge that God is still here, still offers personal salvation and stands by on call when we need him, but we like to write our own stories, thank you very much, and quite frankly resist full integration into his story. Andrew Root in his book, Churches and the Crisis of Decline offers his thoughts on this:

We live in a secular age because we can imagine and at times do live, as though there is no transcendent quality to life at all. Most of us in the West can live our lives as though there is no living God who enters into history and speaks to persons. Westerners hold onto the idea of God (most of us “believe” in God, at least in America) but few of us are sure we can encounter this God.

So, how about it church? Who is up for changing that—for singing redemption’s sweet song? Who is ready for some radical renewal? Who is in need of transformative restoration? Who is sick and tired of the same ole, same ole? Who would like to see God break out boldly into the world around us? It is all about redemption! Redemption of hearts and souls; redemption of broken relationships; redemption from sin; addiction; fear; loneliness; anger; lostness. This Is the story; this Is the song.

Give thanks to the Lord, for his is good; his love endures forever. Let the redeemed of the Lord say this—those he redeemed from the hand of the foe, those he gathered from the lands, from east and west, from north and south. (Psalms 107:1-3)

Baltic Family Camp 2022

What a joy it was to share a week with brothers, sisters, missionaires and friends from eleven European countries last week at the Baltic Family Camp (BFC) in Lithuania. Ten years ago this camp began with the goal of providing rest and spiritual renewal for missionaries and Christians in Central Europe along with creating a network among the mostly small, distant churches on that continent. Thanks to the blessings of the Father, those goals have been accomplished. Ten years later the BFC brings together family in the Lord!

After a two-year absence due to COVID, we (113 campers) gathered at a wonderful new campground (Camp Bebriukas, which means “Beaver:) near Moletai, Lithuania and focused on our theme of “Nobody But Jesus.” Dr. Daniel Napier (who along with his wife, Karly, serve on the mission field in Greece) was our guest teacher. He offered us fresh insight on the privilege of prayer by unpacking Christ’s prayer in Luke 11. Thanks to other gifted teachers from the states, the children and teens enjoyed interactive classes, crafts and activities. It was a tremendous week of growth, fellowship, worship, and family. One young lady, Victoria, put Christ on in baptism.

We also heard stories from refugess from both Ukraine and Belarus. In spite of the conflict raging near this part of the world, God is at work bringing relief, rescue and hope to those affected. The camp confirmed once more that our connection in Jesus goes beyond any nationality or borders.

The need for the BFC just grows greater. God continues to use it to build up his kingdom.

THREE GOOD REASONS TO COME BACK TO CHURCH

Recently, Cecil May III and I watched a webinar about how to encourage church members who have not yet returned to in-person worship. It seems that this is something most churches have in common now, post-pandemic. Apparently, the long layoff caused by the virus; social distancing and online options has left most churches still missing a fairly significant number of folks from in-person Sunday worship. Of course, online options remain, but ideally—as compelled by the biblical model and teaching—the body works best when it all comes together to worship and praise God. So, thinking about this—here are three good reasons to come back to church.

• It is how we “spur one another on to love and good works” (Hebrews 10:24). Contextually this mutual responsibility is directly connected to being together in worship (10:25). It was vital for the Hebrews in their context and now for us as well or else, like the Hebrews, we could be in danger of slipping back and away from the Lord. 
• It is how we can show “equal concern for each other” (1 Corinthians 12:25). This verse is in the “body analogy” section of Paul’s letter to the splintered Corinthian church. Every member is important, needed and an equal part of God’s church, but the church has to be intentional to realize and demonstrate that. Being together in worship is a wonderful way to accomplish it.
• It is how we demonstrate the joy, harmony and beauty of the Lord. “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity” (Psalm 133:1). What a witness we share to the world when we prioritize being together; join each other in singing praise to God; remembering the sacrifice of Christ in communion; and praying together as one people. Of course, God is worthy of all of our praise—and being his people together offering it is incredible.

We are thankful for those who join us online and desire to stay connected, but we also admit to missing those who have not yet returned. Hope to see you soon!

I love you, church!

• This article first appeared in the Levy Church of Christ bulletin on 7/4/2021

New Jerusalem–Revelation 21-22

As John’s apocalypse comes to its conclusion, he goes out casting an amazing vision for the ultimate future of God’s people—and speaking as he did originally into the oppressed reality of his readers, what a way to end! For them, this presentation of eternity with God is a total flip of the script. No longer would there be any separation from God; no more tears, suffering, pain, persecution or even death. Their hardscrabble life would be replaced by the incredible, almost indescribable glory of God’s presence in a place where he is making everything new (just this statement alone for the first recipients of this letter had to bolster their faith). They will be completely and totally provided for, perfected and protected. It is the new heaven and new earth, the New Jerusalem, the holy city God has prepared for them. In it are only those who follow the Lamb, all others are excluded. We can only imagine the impact such a vision had for those suffering under the brutal Roman oppression. It is not just a fitting way to finish the story, but contextually, the only way. John has led them through the progressions of God’s assurances, his promises, his judgments against Rome along with the final judgment, now all that is left is the realization of the promises—heaven itself—forever with God, along with a reminder that there is still work to do and an invitation extended for all to do it. As these two final chapters unfold, they are filled with several allusions to Old Testament promises and demonstrate one last time that no Babylon (Rome or any other nation) regardless of how ferocious it seems, is any match for the God of heaven and the Lamb that was slain.

• New Jerusalem. While this exact phrase is only used within the Revelation, the idea of a new heaven and new earth is found elsewhere in the Bible (Isaiah 65:17-25; 2 Peter 3:10-13). John sees this city descending out of heaven as a bride prepared for her groom. It is a depiction of the sum of God’s people—the church (so-to-speak) of both covenants coming together with Christ to live forever in the presence of God as God brings about a totally new dwelling from the old, wiping away all of the former suffering. Pause just for moment to consider the opening of this chapter—the impact these words would have had on his original audience. Even now, in the absence of that level of persecution, we are encouraged and emboldened by this promised reality. When God stated, “I am making everything new,”—that should be a game changer for all Christians of any generation. No longer will the current rules apply. No longer will Satan have a say. No longer will we be limited in any way. New Jerusalem is just that incredible.
• It is for those who overcome. John makes sure to convey to his readers that this amazing vision is coming directly from God himself—the Alpha and Omega. This is his domain and it is only reserved for those thirsty for him; those who have overcome the persecution. It is not for the persecutors—the unbelievers and cowardly, etc. Their destiny lies with the dragon who deceived them—the second death—eternal separation outside of the protection of God. They have no power or even presence there. New Jerusalem is only for those who follow the Lamb.
• The City. Next John describes this Holy City in vivid, brilliant detail. One of the seven angels gives him the grand tour. The city is equated to the bride of the Lamb, and again, represents God’s people from both covenants—with both the names of the twelve tribes of Israel and the twelve apostles prominently displayed within. As beautiful and breathtaking this description is, it is all meant to be symbolic. It is pointless to try to take the measuring literally. The use of the precious stones, the measuring, the number of gates—everything here both depicts the majesty of God and the complete way in which all within will be provided for and protected. It is also meant to convey the complete opposite experience from what John’s first readers were experiencing. No longer downtrodden. No longer bound by Roman aggression—in New Jerusalem they would see and experience a reality that even Rome in its prime could not even begin to match or imagine. For instance, the city of Rom had some marvelous architecture and temples, but none could compare to the splendor of what John is describing. Actually, in New Jerusalem there is no temple. None was needed because of the brilliance of the presence of God and the Lamb. They illuminate the city—no temple to a Caesar or any pagan god could ever even come close. And, John reminds once more—it is only reserved for those who the Lamb knows—who are in his book of Life. From all nations those in this book will flow into the city—through the open gates (indicating access—no one will ever be prevented from seeing God—even his face!) praising God through their own particular cultures—a beautiful scene indeed. This is the amazing, breath-taking, perfect city of God, John is shown—reserved for those, like his readers, who been faithful unto death.
• There is a garden too. It surrounds a river—the river of Life. The earth itself is renewed in New Jerusalem with no more curse to burden it (see Romans 8:20-22). The garden provides all of the provisions needed for the city’s inhabitants—yielding its fruits every month bringing continual healing and blessings. Certainly, this is a call back to Eden (Genesis 3; Ezekiel 47), but it is also so much more. It is a step forward as well (Isaiah 2; Zephaniah 3). Beyond even what Eden offered, it is the place where all nations will live in harmony praising and serving the God who dwells among them—with the throne of God and the Lamb securely in the midst of the city providing all of the light ever needed. Here the Lamb’s followers will reign with him—forever. This is a picture of the new humanity who will be partnered with God to rule over his creation much like he originally desired (Genesis 1:27-28). What an almost unbelievable juxtaposition for those first century Christians in those seven churches to even imagine based upon their circumstances. But yet this was real—the trustworthy and true words of God. It was the culmination of all of God’s promises of hope and victory.  
• “Soon take place.” This conveys the urgency of the message because of the urgent condition of those who first heard the message. God had heard their cry and was acting upon it. This is why the angel informed John not to seal the book—the time for God to act was near. We must not confuse the language here—the entire Revelation was written in answer to the persecution of these first century Christians. John begins it by stating as much (1:3) and ends it the same way. These statements then speak to how the content of the book was originally and primarily for that generation—that God was bringing about the end of their suffering while also revealing to them the glory that awaited. In this, he declares a blessing on all who heed and keep the words of the Revelation—for all who take to heart the promised deliverance of God and remain faithful while waiting for that day. These are not just the words of John or even an angel, but of God himself and when he does come—when the message of the book is made known it will find people right where they are, which will be revealing in its own right because everyone will then know whose belongs to God and who does not—no more hiding behind the power of the Roman shield. Again, it is Jesus who is speaking to the churches—guaranteeing this as truth.
• Come! So, the same Spirit that the churches were to hear is now partnered with the Bride compelling all to come—to accept God’s invitation to follow the Lamb, not the beasts nor dragon. Only by doing so could complete fulfilment be found. Rome had nothing like the water of life—only drinking of it could end thirst. No mistake this invitation is here at the end of the book after all had been said—it was God’s appeal to those Christians (and us) to not miss out on the blessings of New Jerusalem.
• And one last warning. This book was not to be parsed (as was the custom with Jewish apocalyptic literature). Every part of it was essential and if anyone thought otherwise—it was to their peril. This was John’s way of emphasizing the overarching vital nature of the Revelation. Read it all. Believe it all. Find hope in it all. God is coming to the rescue soon!  

And so, ends not just the Revelation, but the entire narrative of the Bible. It ends with a message of great assurance—for those living under Roman oppression—and for Christians of every generation. It is the Lamb that was slain that conquers and will always conquer. Every human kingdom can (and likely will) become a corrupted Babylon, but Jesus will not allow any to have the final say. His is the promise of “everything made new,’ which delivers God’s complete justice while offering the Lamb’s followers an eternity of his provision, protection and presence—all we could ever hope for and more!

So, the Bible starts with us in the presence of God—enjoying intimate fellowship and freedom from sin only to be interrupted and corrupted by Satan and his schemes along with the fallout that has and continues to create. But then the Bible ends with the real promise of us being once again fully in God’s presence enjoying an even greater reality in the new heavens and new earth with Satan vanquished forever. It is the story of redemption, which enabled a generation of Christians to stand against the Babylon that was Rome and will continue to enable us and any generation of Christians to be faithful unto death against whatever Babylon comes next. “The grace of the Lord Jesus be with God’s people. Amen.”

*Recourses used in the study include Worthy is the Lamb by Ray Summers; Revelation: An Introduction and Commentary by Homer Hailey; The Apocalypse: A Revelation of Jesus Christ by Donald R. Taylor; The Wonder Book of the Bible by Lee G. Tomlinson; and the bibleproject.com Revelation presentations.