East Vancouver Living Hope Church

Amazing Pizza op & Great Show - the Adventures of Bruce

2010-09-20T09:35:00.000-07:00

We had about 16-20 Living Hope fans at Gordon's show last night: wow! We had so much fun. Doing life together IS the way to live!

Our Old Portland campus had 8 people; Several from our Mall and Brush Prairie campus and six of us from the East Vancouver campus made this a very fun night.

Here's a link to my Blackberry clip of Gordon playing at the Hawthorne

Mark it down: Oct 10 is our BIG DAY

2010-09-19T08:19:00.000-07:00

Mark your calendar for the return of Seth and Holli McRae to our campus! Seth will be leading our East Vancouver campus (no, Laura and I are not leaving, just adding to the other campuses -East Vancouver will still be our home campus) and we want to welcome them home.

Following the 11 a.m. service on October 10 we will have a welcome home potluck lunch! Yes, you can bring Starbucks or Stumptown gifts for our "Returning Home couple." Also, bring a side dish (salad, veggie, or dessert) - we'll provide the main dishes! This is going to be a grand fun day for all!

Latest videos on Bruce's personal blog :) Link

Also: It's not too late to email Bruce and join him for the last concert before Christmas for Gordon Avenue (his son's band) - bruce.lhceast@gmail.com

DO U BELONG? NeXt Step?

2010-09-12T08:32:00.000-07:00

What a way to do life: With Friends; laughing, playing, praying and building memories that make us want Heaven; forever! Four of us guys came back from a one-day "Road Trip" so charged up! Let's do life together -We ARE family! Ephesians 4, I Corinthians 12.

Link to videos of outrageous fun (Bruce's Blog).

To Love More!

2010-09-08T10:46:00.000-07:00

(LINK to Bruce's personal blog: 4 Simple Food Rules to fantastic health)

I spoke this last Sunday at East Vancouver about God's Ultimate Health Plan. It's all about friendships, marriages, and other relationships that are whole, real, authentic, and forever!

Lie: I don't make that much of a difference (Ephesian 4:16 - Every one of us makes a HUGE difference in each other's life).

Lie: I don't belong (no one really cares that much for me and will be there for me always)! We were loved and viewed as 100% genuine and WOW from before time (Ephesians 1:4-5).

I also shared how these lies have made us sick physically with the food Giant Corporations are feeding us (they are really making BIG $$$ off of us). The problem is the two lies above are what fuels unhealthy physical health.

Want to know why the French eat more cheese, drink more wine, and dine on fantastic foods but have MUCH better health than us (they ask 3 questions to our 1 regarding food)?

September 19 is my oldest son's concert at the Hawthorne Theater (You should join us) : LINK

India update - Special Haiti Report this Sunday night

2010-08-24T14:09:00.000-07:00

Please invite friends to hear my dear friend Nicky, share about her recent "Only God" trip to Haiti. This special Mission Live Update will take place at our campus this Sunday, Aug. 29 at 6:30 p.m.

Dr. Kumar continues

to use "Cell phone Preaching" to spread the Good-news about Jesus to so many people every Friday. The miracles of healing that takes place at the close of these services is so amazing. These pastors have such faith and God is revealing himself to this very "dark" country. In the pictures below is a lady who was sent home to die; her blood plateletcount was less than 10,000 (normal is 150,000) and she had Septicaemia in her uterus and body. Her hemoglobin was level was less than 5 gms. She was brought to the cell phone preaching and was healed. Her immediate visit back to the hospital showed her platelet count to be 200,000. This lady had been so sick for months, but now has renounced her former Hindu faith and is a living testimony to God's power.

Dr. Kumar is working with thousands of those who lost their homes due to flooding in the area.

I've include some pictures of the kids who have recently been rescued from abuse and are receiving education and food everyday in our new School Day-care ministry that Jim and Diana Brownlee are helping spearhead (You've got to ask Diana what YOU can do - its so incredible the difference you can make).

White Salmon Rafting

2010-07-20T14:34:00.000-07:00

We leave this Saturday, July 24, to Whitewater Raft the White Salmon River.

COST: $65 - bring check payable to Living Hope Church (includes lunch)

LEAVING: We will LEAVE at 7 a.m. from the East Vancouver Campus parking lot (see directions on the right side of this page). DO NOT BE LATE - YOUR lOSS!

Rafting Company details: This is one of the best rafting companies we've ever found (they provide all the wet gear you need to keep warm! They are tops - here's a link to their site (go there).

Email Bruce.lhceast@gmail.com or call 360-909-4554.

IT WILL BE A BLAST!

Dr. Kumar (from India) is at our Campus this weekend (and tomorrow night - Women . . . check this out . . .)

2010-07-13T15:55:00.000-07:00

This Sunday Dr. Kumar is here at East Vancouver (the picture, right, is of his youngest son); but first let me mention a special event at East Vancouver tomorrow night.

This Wednesday, July 14, at 7 p.m. Serious Coffee (Our LH Women's ministry) is doing a Summer Picnic! If you didn't know about this or didn't know if you could make the time to be here let me share with you from a guy's perspective: "Anytime you can be in the same room as two very powerful mentors lives (These two women are such spiritual giants), I think it's so worth doing it! I'm not going to say in this blog who these two women are, but I'll tell you outright if you come up and ask me on Sunday (you can email me too - bruce.lhceast@gmail.com). This is a summer picnic that allows you to meet other women who want to grow spiritually (Women from several faiths, a mix of those from Living Hope, as well as those who have never attended our church will be there). Then you'll get a feel if you'd like to consider doing one of the fall, winter, or spring sessions this new year. Try it out. Email me or Angela Taylor (angietomlivinghopechurch@gmail.com).

Dr Kumar and Only God International are at our campus this Sunday, July 18, from 10 a.m. until after the 11 a.m. service.

See, hear, and experience the latest miracle in India. This will be your only opportunity this year to meet Dr. Kumar and his wife. Only God International (Living Hope Church Mission Outreach) will be hosting a Continental breakfast from 10 a.m. to 10:30. This is a great opportunity to meet Dr Kumar and his wife Jean-Mary. Dr. Kumar will then share with us during our 11 a.m. service! I'm so very excited about this amazing chance to meet a man who was born an untouchable but now guides 800 pastors, a hospital, several clinics, and an orphanage. All of this for one passion -to bring out of darkness, into the Light, those who don't have a forever-friendship with Jesus. You will be so glad you made met these two amazing people. God takes what society calls "Untouchable" and uses to bring eternal Hope to one of the darkest places on our planet.

Sunday, July 18

10-10:30 a.m. "Only God International" continental breakfast

11 a.m. East Vancouver Worship with Dr. Kumar as our special guest

If you have any questions don't hesitate to email me (bruce.lhceast@gmail.com).

Summer Spiritual Muscle - a simple plan

2010-06-24T06:38:00.000-07:00

Here's are two workout routines for spiritual strength:

1) Sing and Shout, a lot! Singing (even if you lip-sync) is a powerful use of your 3 of your 5 senses! Singing is highly recommended by God many times in the Bible. It very likely could activate the powerful endorphins spoken of in Philippians 4 (Check it out)! In addition to singing, try "shouting" about what's really worth shouting about! I mean it - we use passion and "volume" for some pretty silly things ( for example: bad drivers, someone taking cuts in a long line, our cat or dogs bad behavior, our kid/s, lawnmower, or even worse, a missed putt at Blue Heron Golf Course (those 16" ones can bite hard). Shout, with exuberant celebration, for the gift of life! Not long ago, just for fun, my son Marcus and I SHOUTED, "Get in the hole!" right Gordon hit his Tee shot on a short par 4 (It was fun . . . felt like the US Open . . . my sweetheart Laura laughed a lot too). Don't hold back at exhibiting your inner value for life, gifts, love, and great memories - express yourself more. It's highly recommended by GOD! A must read is Psalm 33 - Start with this verse (3) now! The ancient language of the Bible says, literally, "make a really loud shout." It's the same word used to describe a war cry of celebration or mighty trumpet blast! Read this verse again; now take a look at the root word (in the link above). Try it out; SHOUT OUT LOUD SOMETHING YOU SO APPRECIATE! It's going to build some really good muscle on your inside!

2) Walk back (saunter) to a life of "awe and wonder." Little children are simply amazed all the time. Watching my two year old granddaughter run down a path, simply in awe of the gift of "running" (Not much bend going on in those little knees yet, but the bouncing jelly-face, full of wonder, is so incredibly WOW . . . " You can keep on running like that, sweetie!").

Notice what Psalm 33:8 says, "Let all the earth fear the LORD: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him." The word "fear" can mean either "terror" or "respect-deep awe." Tingle with the beyond "bigness" of who God is in your life. Look at life with deep wonder, fascination. Stop and look at how amazing life is!

There's far more I'd love to blog on in this passage (maybe later): make sure you check out the weird pictures of my son Gordon experiencing Chinese Fire-pots on his back (Warning - I think these are some "sick" pictures).

Try on "serving" at East Vancouver this Summer

2010-06-11T12:06:00.000-07:00

Dear friends, here's the overview of 21 ways you can serve this summer and get connected, exercise your spiritual muscles, AND have a blast "being part of God's family (see the entire chapter of Ephesians 4).

Take a look at the following descriptions and then give email Pastor Bruce and we'll spend some time visiting together about the possibilities!

Summer “Try-on” Service Areas (21 ways to give)

KidsWorld Volunteer opportunities

Toddlers Team (9 or 11 a.m.)

Helping hands –being there to hold, redirect, & help our amazing teacher

K-5^th Grade Team

Set-up Team –straighten chairs, last min. craft & snack prep, helping other volunteers be ready

Tear-down Team –spot vacuum, pick up craft supplies, re-freshen rooms.

Craft Center Team –as the kids build, you help & illustrate the one “Big
Idea” being taught at all four tables (everything you need already supplied).

Story Center Team –love to tell stories? You will help the kids at your table understand what the “Big Idea” for the day is (everything you need already supplied).

Small Group Center Team –using prayer requests and a Bible memory verse, you get to see children’s belief in a really BIG God shine out!

Snack Center Team –more than watching kids eat, you get to illustrate the days “one” idea. (everything you need already supplied).

Greeting Team –smile and help parents check in their kids; direct kids to worship area.

Worship Team –we supply the video, you supply the energy in leading kids in praise!

Volunteer Encouragement Team –maybe your grand on the phone, encouraging those who volunteer; or perhaps keeping the calendar up to date and helping volunteers get set up with a leader, if you like to affirm and build others up this is a great team for you!

Main Auditorium Sunday Volunteer (9 or 11 a.m. service)

Set-up Team Straighten chairs, put pens and handouts on chairs

Tear-down Team Stack chairs, put out tables, take out garbage

Crash-bar Team Serve, set out snacks, help make coffee

Worship Computer (EasyWorship) Work with the computer we use for worship

Sound Tec Team Would you like to learn how to run a sound board - This is it

Lighting Team Flip a switch and help learn how to operate a light-board

Offering team Help take up offering and hand out cards and other material

Worship (singing) Team We are building a new team - try out

Worship (instrument) Team We are building a new team - try out

Volunteer Encouragement Team Set up email reminders, phone and encourage volunteers, help volunteers connect with specific leaders, follow-up visits

Maintenance team Monthly special cleaning and repair

Programming Team Help with flow of entire Sunday Worship service

Prayers that harm you (Final blog in series on being faithful)

2010-06-01T07:06:00.000-07:00

So I've been blogging on the irony of infidelity (we are unfaithful, distrustful, abandoning those we really love, or should love, the most). Here's your chance to go back to the beginning of this blog series (Link).

One of the most common prayers we pray is the "Please help me" prayer. Millions of us pray these words, "Please God, help me not to __________ any more."

God understands our heart, so if you pray this kind of prayer on a regular basis please don't get freaked out. Here's the deal with these kinds of prayer: Romans six, in the Bible, is all about living a life that keeps us free! It talks about the ideal focus (attitude, mental state, thoughts) we should have. It tells us what NOT to focus on. Try reading this chapter after considering this:

1. We get to have a mind-set that chooses to believe we are "alive IN God through Jesus!" (verses 5 & 11). We are to tell ourself (praying it is the best way to do this) that "sin has lost its power over us." It doesn't matter if we "feel this to be true or not." It's not contingent on if we've just had another "crash and burn" into our own self-destructive past. We are, by trust, to believe this is true because we've accepted Jesus in our lives and He lives in us! This sets us up to stop praying the following kind of prayers:

"Help me not to lose my temper any more!"

"Help me to not smoke today."

"Help me not to think impure thoughts today."

"Please God, help me to not judge others today!"

These promises (Romans 6:1-11) are inviting us to pray the following trust prayers instead:

"Thank you that Your peace is ruling in my life today."

"Thank you that this body is Yours and I get to honor Your life in my body today."

"Thank you that Your pure mind is now my mind."

"Thank you that You alone can see the motives of others. I don't have to worry about this."

We've known for a long time that saying things like, "I'm not going to gain any more weight. I'm not going to become obese." only serves to encourage the very things I'm trying to avoid. People who study human psychology have known this for years. But God invited us to pray positive prayers thousands of years ago (See Romans 7 for Paul's description of how harmful it is to focus on what "we don't want to do.").

2. The power of sin (the obsession with MY way) is broken because we're now "under grace" (like an umbrella)! This is what we see when we look up, around, everywhere we look: God's gift of love (grace) is our motive, our hope, and our motivation for everything! We are "no longer under the law" (that "I've got to do this or else" fear motivation.). It's all about seeing how much we're loved (Ephesians 1:4-5)!

Now try reading Romans 6 and continue talking to God! Make sure you re-read verses 11 and 14! Pray, by trust in God, what God "will do" in you. You are His Kid! Really, really!

Check out the amazing pictures of my granddaughter's first swing with a real golf club (She just turned two)!

How Jimmy Carter and I were unfaithful (Infidelity part III)

2010-05-24T12:58:00.000-07:00

I've built a "fantastic excuse" for why you didn't any blogs this week (also some cues and hints to what Laura and I will be doing this Sun. afternoon - want to join us - jump to my personal blog now :_).

If your just checking in on this blog and haven't been part of our discussion about "infidelity (unfaithfulness) and Worry," you may want to jump back to the beginning right now (Day One Link).

Here's the famous Jimmy Carter Playboy interview statement that "set-off" huge discussion just before Jimmy won the presidency (Jimmy is mostly regarded as one of the most honest, full of integrity, kind presidents of all times, BUT not a good leader. If you had to choose one of these for your legacy what would be your choice right now?).

Jimmy said:

"Because I'm just human and I'm tempted and Christ set some almost impossible standards for us. The Bible says, "Thou shalt not commit adultery." Christ said, I tell you that anyone who looks on a woman with lust has in his heart already committed adultery. I've looked on a lot of women with lust. I've committed adultery in my heart many times.... This is something that God recognizes, that I will do and have done, and God forgives me for it. But that doesn't mean that I condemn someone who not only looks on a woman with lust but who leaves his wife and shacks up with somebody out of wedlock. Christ says, don't consider yourself better than someone else because one guy screws a whole bunch of women while the other guy is loyal to his wife. The guy who's loyal to his wife ought not to be condescending or proud because of the relative degree of sinfulness."

Have you ever worried about being a hypocrite? Well, the fact that you're worrying is a "good thing" unless the reason your worrying is that you want to make sure you don't feel guilty. A hypocrite is an actor (It's a Greek word that means just that.). Your an "H." if you're acting out so that others will have a certain impression of you; all the while, you have little or no desire to be this kind of person (only to be perceived as that). Hint: some of the most outspoken right-winged (they do have hidden left wings as well) religious folk (flock) who publicly, and repeatedly, lambast gays have been found to struggle with homosexuality themselves. Weird? Not at all! Does this mean their hypocrites? Not always (think about that for a while)! My point? Looking at the source of what I want most (what I worry about the most); what I believe I have to have to be Ok, can reveal, to me, why I'm unfaithful to those I love most!

I worship who or what I think will give me what "I believe" is essential to true happiness (inner joy). Must run . . . more tomorrow (not likely :). Hope to continue these thoughts Monday morning (really). Check out my personal blog (here).

Infidelity & worry - How Jimmy Carter are alike (Part II)

2010-05-24T09:14:00.000-07:00

We are human and we are unfaithful at various moments of our day. Worry is a flag that can reveal what counts most in our lives! Examining what I worry most about (and most often) can help me see where I'm most "unfaithful." Haven't read my opening blog on this subject? (Link)

The next couple days (I'm wondering, did you do the little evaluation I shared with you in my first "Infidel" blog?)

I would like to explore some things our previous President Carter and I have in common:

1. We both like peanuts (I love Peanut M&M's)

2. We both love to serve (it can even be the source of our infidelity - I got a big blog about that saved for later)

3. We both have relatives that have "obvious addictions" and some who have "culturally nice addictions"

AND

4. We both have been unfaithful to our wives without ever touching anyone (you'll have to wait for tomorrow's blog to find out more on this one - no rumors please :).

Today's "looking beyond the black smoke" question:

Q: What was Jesus really trying to show me in Matthew 5:21-26? Will it transform the way I give and receive love? What key "attitude" would I like to "work out" today (like going to the gym & pumping iron)?

Q: Was Jimmy Carter thinking of this passage, Matthew 5:27-28, when he shocked the world with his Playboy interview in 1976?

Want to check out my random Monday thoughts? (Link to Bruce's personal blog)

What triggers infidelity (unfaithfulness)?

2010-05-23T06:37:00.000-07:00

Unfaithfulness (infidelity) is something we ALL do! How's that? We all are infidels (unbelievers) at various moments during the day. Sometimes this is good "distrust," if the advice or wisdom you're being given is wrong, or dangerous. Satan is a liar (the father of lies)! I definitely want to be an "infidel" when it comes to Satan.

What are some of the biggest reasons I'm unfaithful? Why do I sometimes have an affair with my work, a hobby, or even a stupid TV show (What's your temptation?).

We fall into infidelity when:

we emotionally give ourselves to someone other than the person God gave us
we wish someone in our life would be more like someone else
we love things and use people
we play it safe (maybe from fear of being hurt or rejected) and tone down our commitment to someone God has given us to love.

We don't need to be married to be "unfaithful." We don't need to have gotten trapped in a physical affair to be giving our heart away (or locking it away) to someone else. Do you have a parent, sibling, or friend that is suffering because part of your heart is "unfaithful?" When I don't trust that God will take care of me or won't accept me, I can easily become an infidel (an unbeliever). I want to invite you to check out a "word" that might help you evaluate your level of commitment to God and those you love.

Here's that really big word ( I'll expand on it more this week), "Worry!"

Worry is like an iceberg, its greater mass (the source) is beneath the surface. If you keep your eyes out for what worries you most, you'll see the things or person's that tempt you to be unfaithful (prayer is essential in this process).

Take time, this week, to make a list of what worries you most and most often. Prepare yourself this week (check back on this blog) to pray through worry, then give it back to God.

First, start by building your "Worry list," then read (several times) Matthew chapter six.

Don't worry, be happy! Check back tomorrow :).

Link to Part II in this blog series (It will only last about a week :).

Hawaii and May 23 - Reflections on things that make a BIG difference

2010-05-13T22:08:00.000-07:00

So here I am in Kona Hawaii with two guys and I'm thinking, "Why did I just about kill myself to get a bunch of work done, people met with, and hours of sleep lost; just to get to Hawaii?" It's not because this is such a cool place to come and hang out (it really is). It's not because I got to fly for free (that IS a really good reason to visit). No, it's partly because Laura and some others who are close to me felt I really needed the break! And, the biggest reason I'm hanging out here is that I get to invest into the lives of two friends who have poured their lives into the mission of Living Hope church. By taking the chance to hang out with them away from the "normal rat-race" I really expect that we will come back even more recharged to see more lost people find a forever-friendship with God!

Here's one of my favorite verses in the book of Wisdom, Proverbs 11:24-25 "The world of the generous gets larger and larger; the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller. ²⁵ The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed."

When the three of us guys return to Vancouver, our hearts and time will be focused on a really big, cool event taking place at our Living Hope East Vancouver Campus - the "Chicken and Biscuits potluck." Please pray about coming to this dinner (you bring a salad and/or dessert) and we'll provide the rest. Even more, we'll be sharing some very exciting ways you can try out (a simple free trial) various service opportunities opening up at our campus. We'll share with you our next phase of remodeling and how it will touch the lives of so many. This is an opportunity for you to take that next step in serving. You will grow more friendships and your spiritual side will take off like never before.

Please don't hesitate to email me for more details on this special day - Bruce.lhceast@gmail.com

The power of eye contact (and - how we first play)

2010-05-07T11:40:00.000-07:00

Ever noticed when little three year old Johnny is hiding something he knows he wasn't suppose to do, he doesn't want to look you in the eye!

Eye to eye contact is stage two of human bonding. It's much riskier than simply observing someone anonymously. When we're out of sync with someone we often don't give them much eye contact. When I'm absorbed, multi-tasking, or more often, just not listening in ways that say "you count" I'm often falling short of good eye contact (texting or lap-top-ing when someone is talking to me).

Give the gift of good eye contact, turn and look into their eyes - it so adds to friendship. It sends a healthy "you're valuable to me" message. Again, my Bank account illustration applies: eye contact is a "deposit" that balances out all those stressors (withdrawals) in our relationship accounts! Deposit lots of them.

HOW DID PLAY FIRST BEGIN?

When a mom takes her baby, and makes eye contact, adding smiles and encouraging sounds, the little child soon learns to respond. This is our first experience at play. We learn to smile, make noises back, look for more and more seconds into the eyes of that "fun, safe" person who's playing with us. Scientist say the more mom's do this the higher the emotional intelligence of our kids. Our senses are built first for building friendships, then for survival. Unlike all other creatures, our nerve endings serve us first in the area of bonding, not survival of the fittest. Play with those you care about - make the other person, not what your doing, the point - you'll see more deposits in your relational bank and you'll be such better friends.

What happened to Tuesday? The FIRST 3 steps of bonding!

2010-05-06T05:36:00.000-07:00

Human bonding, the connections that lead to deep, authentic friendship, is something that happens the same way in every culture, everywhere (wow, those are some big "absolutes.").

The amount of "time" spent on each stage can vary, but the first three stages are just basic biology - our 5 senses, our physical bodies, all were made to connect us to each other through these first three steps.

In the past 30 years I've logged more than 10,000 hours meeting with couples and sharing about what builds deep, satisfying friendships. Over and over I find these first "steps" toward human friendship are being neglected. They are SO SIMPLE, so basic, that it's tempting to dismiss them, not take them with needed seriousness: here they are -

FIRST STAGE to human bonding:
1). Eye to body. Yep, that's it! From that little girl in first grade who watches Tommy, until Tommy turns around, we start all friendships by noticing someone. Isn't that profound, life-changing? It is! How many minutes a day do you stop and consciously notice someone you care a great deal about. You'll be surprised at the subtle differences it makes. Your thoughts, priorities, and so much more will get a work-out (think healthy and strong) by this simple exercise. In thirty five years I've seen so much benefit from building the habit (discipline) of noticing others: study others and you'll so much more than just the surface. I try to practice noticing Laura and my little two-year-old granddaughter, Elena, more than any other female (this is essential preventative medicine). People matter, try noticing more!

NON-Paid Personal Bruce Advertisement: Jump over to Bruce's personal blog for a moment - Don't wait another moment to see what Bruce and Laura are doing this Friday night (May 7). Just do it! (LINK)

2). Eye to Eye (Oh, am I ever excited to blog about this later today, tomorrow, or next year - please, please bug me until I do . . . I'm calling out to my 7 faithful readers :).

3) Voice to Voice (Experts, like Donald Joy - top-10 super-bonding researcher, say it takes 1000 hours sharing/listening to really build a friendship that has healthy trust, i.e. commitment and high value.) Logging this thousand hours before going on to steps 4-12 is what helps build the healthy Triangle base Laura and I shared about on Sunday at our campus.

Check back for more: Still to come - "How play first begins in one of the oldest mother-child games of all times!"

Building Friendships with a Team of friends

2010-05-01T21:56:00.000-07:00

Everything great, that lasts for a long time, has a team behind it. The smallest "whole" number in the Bible is three (God, someone else, and me)! When Adam was created God left a "space," a pause in a perfect creation so all the angels of heaven could hear the words, "It's not a good thing for Adam to be alone." (Genesis 2:18). These words have been supernaturally preserved so we can read them and know that doing life solo isn't the way to live. Self-reliance can be good but often is a result of being hurt, and our own human way of trying to be safe! Inviting others into our life is one of the ways God brings us back into wholeness.

When we play together, we find ourselves returning to the balance of "being together" more than "just doing." Play, says Mark Twain, can be the same activity, but the conditions are different. I think what "playing" really is - our heart condition celebrates being with those God has brought into our lives. Have you ever played a game that wasn't fun? What took the refreshing, recharging, fun out of it? The condition of our heart will determine if you learn to play together - growing deeper in friendship, or just keep struggling and trying to work it out.

Read Ephesians 4 (note verses 4, then 12-16). We are protected from the storms of life by the various strengths of God's body around us. The goal is a "oneness," a "belonging" that make us family throughout eternity.

Conner's story is one of a family that has built a massive team! They are active helping others build a team too. They have learned to play, that is celebrate being together and accepting the friendship and love God has given. Watch their video and visit the links. Then let what God is doing in their lives cheer you on to ALL He has planned for you. This family is a living legacy that "Being together" will always be more important than any "to do" list we may have! Thank you Sarah for sharing your family's story!

Please bring some Legos to church next week so we can fill up Conner's room with them (it's one of his big dreams).

Make an on-line slide show at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Here are a couple links so you can pray, cheer on, and invest in this family: Sarah's blog and Conner's "Caring Bridge" web site.

How to Super-Size a date (with the Love of your life):

1. Adventure (Great, over-night dates should have the element of adventure added) - Adventure is different for every person. Explore what it "looks like" to that special "man" in your life.

2. Romance (Often there are settings and places that naturally add romance) - Both men and women need this, but guys, listen to what is "romantic" to your wife - try that first!

3. Relational checkup (Learning to build your own "relationship statement," like a monthly "bank statement" will keep you from going bankrupt in your friendship). Laura and I have often done the "List 3 things you're glad I've been doing this last month." We also never get tired of making a list of things the other person "adds" to our life and then sharing them over a fantastic dessert (on the coast).

If you don't know how to find adventure or create a romantic setting, try asking someone who does (seek to build a team of experts in all your relationships).

Bonding 1, 2, 3: Introduction

In 1962 Desmond Morris published a book on how humans bond (This study was of people groups all over the world). It stands, even today, as the definitive stufy of how humans bond. The first three stages of human human bonding, friendship, are so simple and natural; we all do them! It's how we meet and connect. And yet after people are in a relationship for a few years they often neglect these three steps of connecting.

Check back on Tuesday for the the simple ways you can keep adding to your friendships. I'll talk through each of these first 3 stages (also: I'll share the way almost all moms first play with their babies - we'll discuss why it's so important, and how the same core principles can be applied to all our friendships). Please check back on Tuesday!

Just for fun: Check out Bruce's blog - "My new running shoes" saga (with pictures:)

This Friday, 7 p.m. - Acoustic Concert by Gordon Avery

2010-04-20T12:24:00.000-07:00

April 23, at our East Vancouver Living Hope Campus: Come join us for our Concert, fantastic food, and new art exhibit (one of my favorites). This is a great night out (did I mention it's free?) to spend with friends, or meet new friends!

Gordon Avery, of the band Gordon Avenue, brings his Rock and Roll music into a remix done acoustically - it's mellow, yet still alive, and very much filled with fun variety (Acoustic Rock, hints of Blues and Funk, and some special surprises). Tom Taylor joins him (One very good bass player), along with Tom's son Jeremy (this kid can make a guitar come to life) and others.

The tables, food, and art all work together to create a very relaxing place to hang out. Friends who have never visited Living Hope will enjoy this special evening so send your invitations today!

Have you signed up as a fan of our new Living Hope Church East Vancouver Facebook site yet?

Just for fun: Check out my personal blog (I just posted some of my favorite 3-word prayers) and the "new shoes" I just got fitted with!

How well do you forgive yourself?

2010-04-11T06:45:00.000-07:00

Are you naturally critical of others? Yourself?
Do you find your never satisfied with "how well you did?"
Do you find yourself measuring others (their value) by how efficient, effective, and reliable they are?
Do you feel guilty too much (resulting in either "gritted teeth-try harder" antics or "I give up . . . it's no use resignation)?

Guilt focuses on what we "DO" wrong (or failed to do)! We live in the "should have" or "shouldn't have" shadows of the past.

Guilt can leave us trapped in poisonous regrets. It harms our relationship with others and ourself. But for all the "bad guilt" there's an authentic "good guilt" too!

Good Guilt sets us free from past failures and present "human-falling-shortness!" Because it leads us to see Jesus as our forgiver, forever-friend, and the one who will accept us and change our life! Good guilt takes away the blindness of harmful things we "do" to ourselves and others. But it gives us more hope because instead of trying harder we run to Jesus and let Him love into and out of us!

What kind of guilt do you have right now?

Good guilt helps us ask forgiveness quicker and without excuses (sometimes an "explanation" is "nicer" word for making an excuse). Excuses cancel the powerful freedom of forgiveness!

Question: How quickly do I return to accept God's free forgiveness after messing up? Do I focus, and celebrate my return instead of my fall?

I John 1:9 - Want to be clean and "right" with God? Follow God's plan - confess and then live in forgivenesses freedom!

All of get to choose: We can GIVE UP our guilt or TAKE UP the burden keep dragging it along!

If we hang onto the garbage of guilt we're likely to build a huge compost of SHAME!

Shame scars relationships even more than guilt. Guilt focuses on our "mess-ups," while shame lies to us and says we "are a mess up!"

"Your bad girl."

"Your a bad boy!"

This is a lie and much more painful than a "you did something bad."

Psalm 32 - Don't hide (vs. 3-4). Tell God, confession, that you've believed the lie that your a "mess-up" (v.5). Now live in the freedom! If you fall, fall forward into the arms of Jesus (6,7,11)!

Try reading the story of Peter and his lesson of learning to forgive himself! Luke 22:24-34, 54-62. John 21:1-17

When I believe the shaming lies of Satan I'm left with abandonment. Please come back to this blog for a powerful 3-word prayer that so helps me accept this forgiveness.

Easter at East Vancouver Living Hope - 9 a.m. & 11 a.m.

2010-04-02T12:44:00.000-07:00

Wow! This Easter at our local campus is going to be amazing! 9 a.m. & 11 a.m.

Incredible food
Revive Espresso Trailer (tell those you invite that you'll buy them a latte or hot drink)
Wonderful treats for all kids (I just spoke with our Kid's World Leaders & they've got a fantastic program planned)
Baptisms
Great music and Easter message

Easter is baptism day. If you've never experienced baptisms at Living Hope, you'll be so glad you did. Watching it is a very cool experience! Every time we have baptisms the stories that are shared are so inspiring; your guests will be so touched and spiritually energized. Can you say it with me, "WOW" Easter is going to be wonderful!

If you're a guest visiting our East Vancouver blog, please just come as you are -you don't have to dress up, stand up, pay up, sign anything, or do anything that might feel embarrassing. You're our guest and we simply want you to relax and enjoy. Just come and experience Easter with us this year.

Bruce and Laura will be at the Westfield Mall (Old Mervyn's building) eith many friends from East Vancouver this Saturday night (5 & 7 p.m.)

Please check back for our 4-D forgiveness blog coming soon (it's an amazing way to set you free to communicate and share better with those you love).

4-D Forgiveness

2010-04-02T12:27:00.000-07:00

Forgiveness is something we all need! The most real, life-changing forgiveness is a gift from God. We can't earn it or create it, only accept it as a real gift (Ephesians 1:4-5, 2:1-10).

Forgiveness helps us:

let go of the garbage of past hurts and regrets
have courage to keep building deep and lasting friendships
communicate better (hear the other person's heart)
keep hoping in the promise that God will never leave us or stop loving us
live in freedom from bitterness and others' judgments of us.

Looking back is good if it helps you keep looking up!

Here are the 4-D's pastor John and myself have shared with so many people (Using these four steps is a way of spending the time necessary to heal from the hurts of everyday life). Pray through each step. Maybe you'll want to write it all down - then burn or shred it when you're done.

1) Discover who hurt you

2) Define what they took from you (or neglected to give to you)

3) Dispose of the hurt (you don't have to wait until you feel like forgiving - forgiveness is not forgetting; it's choosing to forgive the way Jesus forgave us)

4) Demonstrate God's forgiveness by doing good to others (maybe even the person who hurt you).

If you'd like to read the Cliff Notes of Joseph in the Bible, it's a classic story of forgiveness. I've listed some key verses in the story. It all begins in Genesis 37 and takes a break in chapter 50. Chapter 37:4,23-24 (from hatred to attempted murder); 39:2 (Even in slavery Joe is blessed because "God is with him"); 42:5-8 (Joe doesn't take advantage of an opportunity to even the score with his brothers); 45:5 (An amazing perspective that comes out of forgiveness); and 50:20 (Belief that God takes evil and turns it into good).

What a Week!

2010-03-27T21:51:00.000-07:00

Today reminded me of how wonderful the return of Jesus and the New Earth God will create will be - Laura and I were able to slip away to Mt. Hood for an incredible day (Nordic Skiing, an encounter with a Man I've named Richard, and Snowshoeing that was so much fun). Jump over to Bruce's personal blog sight for pictures and the Richard Story - LINK.

Check back on this blog for more on Pastor John's 4-D forgiveness sermon.

Easter is just a week away! This is one of the most important times in all the year to invite your friends to join you at Living Hope. Please invite friends, strangers, anyone you can to join us at East Vancouver Easter Sunday at 9 or 11 a.m.

Here's what they see when they visit our campus:

The brand new "Revive" Coffee trailer will be parked in front of our campus, ready to share some wonderful coffee, tea, and other wonderful treats. Every kid will get a special Easter Gift.

Between the 9 and 11 a.m. service we will have a wonderful spread of treats for everyone who visits us for Easter. We will also have baptisms at both services.

Please spend time this week praying for those you and others are inviting to Easter.

Forgiveness Update

2010-03-25T16:39:00.000-07:00

I'm so very excited about John's 3-D forgiveness talk this weekend; don't miss it!

Still going snowshoeing this Sat (March 27) LINK

Didn't read my first "Forgiveness blog?" LINK

The following God promise was written a couple of weeks ago; bask in God's love!

God says to each of us:

“I have loved YOU with an everlasting love! And you are able to love because I first gave love to you. Even while you were weak, helpless, full of lust and hate towards Me, I loved you and saved in Christ. I am your friend. I, the Creator God of the entire universe, chose to adopt you back as my kids even before I created the planet I gave to you as a gift. In my Eternal heart, I saw you as already perfect, 100% genuine –that’s what I see through my perfect eyes. Like I said, all of this took place before I made you. I did all of this simply because I wanted to! I’ve already forgiven you. From my perspective, this took place even before you turned back, hearing my call, ‘Please return home.’ "

“The reason I gave you my son, is so that you could see how gigantic, unending, my love really is! Don’t be afraid of me. Fear of being punished comes when someone doesn’t trust someone. I’m good, all the time. Every good gift you have ever received comes from me. I give lavish gifts to everyone, even evil people (I share the sun and rain with the whole world). I live to give! All you have to do is respond to my love. Simply say ‘yes” and I will grow our friendship. Our friendship will last forever, beyond all time. What I have just said is a promise you can count on. I keep my word!

With love,

Your Creator friend – The “Everywhere Personal God” who wants to be your friend.

This is my “classics” Bible promises from which I wrote the paragraphs above (Click on any text to jump to its LINK).

Jeremiah 31:3, I John 4:19, Romans 5:6-10, Ephesians 2:1-10; John 15:15, Revelation 3:20, Ephesians 1:4-5, John 3:16-17, I John 4:18, James 1:17, Mathew 5:45, Psalm 84:11, Isaiah 42:5-6, Romans 8:16-17, John 4:13-14; 5:24; 6:39-40; 17:3, I John 4:9; 5:11-13, I Corinthians 15:57, Titus 1:2.

Real Forgiveness leads towards . . .

2010-03-21T06:29:00.000-07:00

Forgiveness helps us RELAX our grip . . . with OPEN hands we are free to walk towards a REUNION to FRIENDSHIP!

Jesus made us to be his "forever friend." Learning to trust, believe, what he says about us is difficult! Practice moving (in your mind) close to Jesus!

Start with: The prayer, "I am forgiven."

Remind yourself: "I won't hid."

Affirm: "I am accepted!"

The truth: "I am Yours."

Finish with: The 3-word prayer, "I am Free!"

God's Truth: "If the Son make you free, you are really free!" John 8:36 (see verse 32 too). Now be real about the fact that all of us are Crack-pots (fragile clay jars) - See Paul's words in 2 Cor. 4:7. Our emotions will sometimes tell us we don't understand forgiveness. We will still struggle with REGRETS! We are human! Keep stepping into God's forgiveness. It will lead us to trust Jesus when he says, "I'll never leave you!"

Jesus' friend, John, wrote these words when he was an old man about to die: "Even if we feel guilty (our hearts condemn us), God is greater than our feelings. And He knows everything."

I John 3:20. Take the "trust" step (faith) of saying, "I will believe what you say about me Jesus!"

Psalm 32 is a powerful reminder of how forgiveness works - Read it now (Link).

Keep checking back for more! Again here's the link to Bruce's personal blog (what to go snowshoeing this Sat? - LINK).

And - Snowshoeing this next Sat. (March 27 - LINK)

Sunday, March 21 Pastor Bruce speaks at E. Vancouver

2010-03-19T22:04:00.000-07:00

It doesn't matter if you're a fan of the TV series LOST, this Sunday I'm going to share a 2 min. clip that is very powerful. In what way? It's a fantastic illustration of how forgiveness works.

Most of us believe in forgiveness, but getting it to stick (the "sticky factor") in our everyday lives isn't always so easy. Maybe it's easier for you to give forgiveness than to receive it. Perhaps it's hard to forgive yourself. Regrets tend to have a long "half-life." This Sunday I believe the sermon on forgiveness could be very transforming in your life.

Invite a friend. One of the stories from the Bible I'll be telling was a favorite of my Father's. It's a very powerful look into how to let forgiveness actually work in your life.

(If you're reading this before 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 20, you're invited to go to my personal blog and learn more about an "Open Date Invitation" from Bruce and Laura -Link.)

Read The Giving Tree! Also, come on a date with Bruce & Laura

2010-03-12T12:28:00.000-08:00

COME SNOWSHOE with us Saturday, March 27th, or meet us for a surprise "date" this coming Sat. night (March 20) . . . to do this you'll have to go to my personal blog (See Link below)!

Why not take a "side-trip" over to Bruce's blog and read The World's Greatest Love Saga (it takes less than 9 min. to read) - LINK :)

Here is the Shel Silverstein Story written 46 years ago (followed by a few questions - Check back all week for more spiritual insights):

The Giving Tree – Shel Silverstein

Once there was a tree....

and she loved a little boy.

And everyday the boy would come

and he would gather her leaves

and make them into crowns and play king of the forest.

He would climb up her trunk

and swing from her branches

and eat apples.

And they would play hide-and-go-seek.

And when he was tired, he would sleep in her shade.

And the boy loved the tree....

very much.

And the tree was happy.

But time went by.

And the boy grew older.

And the tree was often alone.

Then one day the boy came to the tree and the tree said, "Come, Boy, come and climb up my trunk and swing from my branches and eat apples and play in my shade and be happy."

"I am too big to climb and play" said the boy.

"I want to buy things and have fun.

I want some money.

Can you give me some money?"

"I'm sorry," said the tree, "but I have no money. I have only leaves and apples.

Take my apples, Boy, and sell them in the city. Then you will have money and

you will be happy."

And so the boy climbed up the tree and gathered

her apples

and carried them away.

And the tree was happy.

But the boy stayed away for a long time . . .

and the tree was sad.

And then one day

the boy came back

and the tree shook with joy

and she said, "Come, Boy, climb up my trunk

and swing from my branches and be happy."

"I am too busy to climb trees," said the boy.

"I want a house to keep me warm," he said.

"I want a wife and I want children, and so I need a house.

Can you give me a house?"

"I have no house," said the tree.

"The forest is my house,

but you may cut off my branches and build a house.

Then you will be happy."

And so the boy cut off her branches

and carried them away

to build his house.

And the tree was happy.

But the boy stayed away

for a long time.

And when he came back,

the tree was so happy

she could hardly speak.

"Come, Boy," she whispered,

"come and play."

"I am too old and sad to play,"

said the boy.

"I want a boat that will

take me far away

from here.

Can you give me a boat?"

"Cut down my trunk

and make a boat,"

said the tree.

"Then you can sail away . . .

and be happy."

And so the boy cut down her trunk

and made a boat and sailed away.

And the tree was happy

... but not really.

And after a long time

the boy came back again.

"I am sorry, Boy,"

said the tree," but I have nothing

left to give you –

My apples are gone."

"My teeth are too weak

for apples," said the boy.

"My branches are gone,"

said the tree. "You

cannot swing on them -"

"I am too old to swing

on branches," said the boy.

"My trunk is gone, " said the tree.

"You cannot climb -"

"I am too tired to climb" said the boy.

"I am sorry," sighed the tree.

"I wish that I could

give you something . . .

but I have nothing left. I am just

an old stump. I am sorry. . . ."

"I don't need very much now,"

said the boy.

"just a quiet place to sit and rest.

I am very tired."

"Well," said the tree,

straightening herself up

as much as she could,

"well, an old stump is good

for sitting and resting

Come, Boy, sit down.

Sit down and rest."

And the boy did.

And the tree was happy.

The End

QUESTIONS: Some people read Shel Silverstein's story and become irritated at the selfish, greedy “little boy” that so uses and abuses the tree. Where did this story take you? I asked my friend Diana, an amazing elementary teacher, what her student’s reactions typically are; her answer? “The kids seldom think of the boy at all. They are mesmerized by the wonder of the tree.” Could it be true? When I’m swept off my feet in love I don’t even see the garbage around me? What do you see in others most of the time?

Luke 15 has some very religious people upset with Jesus' storytelling. When you look at this story (wrongly named The Prodigal Son) who do you end up focusing on? The "worldly wayward" younger son? The Dad? The passive aggressive, non-appreciative LOST older brother?

Love Gives because it wants to! Read Psalm 149:1-5. We can "twist and twirl" (Heb. for the word "dance" in the Old Testament of the Bible) in our friendship with God! God's "pleasure" is seeing our eyes light up, like The Giving Tree. Fun: this passage is one of the original Mary Kay Makeup verses (verse 4 says "God takes pleasure in his kids." The word "pleasure" used here comes from the Hebrew concept of "looking beautiful" and is associated with a "rosy" red, flushed face. The ancient root is "to boil, be hot, glow with heat." God's face reflects his passionate love for us. God IS nuts about us! Do you believe this? Believing God will transform the way we look at others!

Revisit this blog or Bruce's personal blog (LINK) for more The Giving Tree" thoughts over the next few days :)

East Vancouver Update

2010-03-10T20:35:00.000-08:00

Hey, the name of the band our own worship leader sounded like for a few seconds is . . . Wait, were you able to guess correctly from the last post?

Adam sounded Like the Portland Band . . . (oh yes, you'll have to go to my blog to find out - juvenile? Of course - LINK) . . .

THIS SAT. is our 2nd Saturday Service day. Nearly 800 Living Hope attendees will meet at the Main Campus and join several other churches in the community to do a number of different projects. Bring your smile and plan on arriving at 9 a.m. We will eat lunch at 1p.m. For more details visit our Living Hope web site (Here) or call 360-944-3905.

Two more things:

1) Laura and I have a date set for snowshoeing - if you want to go, please go to Pastor Bruce's personal blog (HERE).

2) Bruce just finished two amazing books this month and is almost done with two more (one from his favorite living author and the other a new one recommended by Diana Brownlee). Check it out at Bruce's blog (HERE).

"True" vs "Truth" - Living Free

2010-03-07T12:03:00.000-08:00

Our current sermon series is "Pirates: What steals your heart?"

This week we looked at the story of Elijah in I Kings 18-19 (LINK). Here are the words I want to highlight from our study: hope, lies, true, truth, and worship.

Hope: Without hope our desire dies and we become like a walking-dead-person. Lies can destroy our hope. We can be lied to in various ways, but one of the most common is through words.

Satan is the father, creator of lies (His first lie was told in Genesis 3 and it was the biggest lie ever told.). What makes a lie dangerous is buying into it without the slightest question of its truthfulness. Believing a lie always harms our relationships – all of them! Question: What's the chance I'm believing even one lie, and don't have a clue it's harming me?

A Lie: To purposely deceive, with disregard (apathy) for the well-being of others. It’s ultimate selfishness – it means I care about ME first and foremost!

True vs. Truth: Words can be true; facts can be too (e.g. The earth rotates around the sun.). But only “truth” can set us free! Truth, at times, comes to us in words. But in its purist form, it comes in the form of a person (Check out this amazing passage in the Bible – LINK.).

Truth IS Jesus and His “alive presence” IN our lives. Question: How aware am I of Jesus’ presence in my life? Is Jesus, the living WORD, “front and center” in my life? The forcefulness of my “yes” will push down the lies Satan whispers to me.

Before I reflect on the word “worship” I want to remind you to check back for the name of the 46-year-old poem I mentioned this last Sunday (It will be fun - and very inspiring). It’s a powerful poem that so reflects the Purest Truth Jesus will pour into your life if you want it.

Worship: that which is most “valuable” in our life – what’s “worth” the most to us. What “counts” most is what we worship. Our thoughts, resources (time and money), and life is poured into what we believe counts the most!

Question: How many times a day do you hear Satan whisper a lie to you? How often do you buy into it? What is the greatest TRUTH Jesus wants to speak into you this very moment?

Our choice: Will I act out, live out, truth today? What’s the next “truth step” from me to take right now? What words prayed in my heart this very moment will I pray?

Check back later this week for the “Incredible poem?”

Check out Bruce’s personal blog (CLICK) - Snowshoeing dates & . . . the Portland Band my friend Adam sounded like this week :)

Snow shoeing this Saturday! March 6

2010-03-03T06:13:00.000-08:00

Bruce is taking a group up to Mt. Hood Saturday a.m. to snow shoe! You don't have to have done it before or even have snowshoes and boots. If you're interested you can check for details on Bruce's personal blog (LINK) and email him - bruce.lhceast@gmail.com

Love to have you join us!

How to pray for one of God's kids who lives in India

2010-02-25T14:30:00.000-08:00

Bruce's personal blog (At the end of this blog :)

First, for the record: I was wrong about some of the details regarding the 8 year old from India who stole water from a well of a higher caste. The "Water boy" doesn't have cancer and I don't know his age. It was another little boy that Dr. Kumar had emailed me about earlier that was sick (Wow, am I mixed up or what? Don't answer that question, please.) So, here's the story:

This little boy, who is from a lower caste, drank from a village well that belonged to "higher caste" people. He got caught and was kicked out of the village, along with his family. I'm uncertain what all of this means except that these people are at such poverty levels to begin with that to lose what they have is very devastating.

Dr. Kumar sent me a picture of another little boy pumping water at the same well. Sometimes when someone from an "Untouchable Caste," again, the lowest caste in India, gets caught the results can be very deadly -murder!

Here's where we can help. Dr. Kumar sent a picture of a rain water pond that the Untouchables must walk about 6 Kilometers to for drinking water. The water is very polluted. In a couple of months the summer heat will begin to dry out these ponds (it sometimes reaches 118 degrees in the summer). The people often get sick from this water and many get so dehydrated that they die. When I preach during their Summer they have to distribute fluids while I preach so they don't faint or die during the service.

Pastor Kumar has 50 churches in villages that have no well available for the Untouchables. Each well drilled costs approximately $500.

Pastor John's words have long been one of my motivators -We can't do EVERYTHING, but we have to do SOMETHING. Pray about it and then share with friends and co-workers the possibilities. None of these churches belong to any denomination. People can specify what they want their investments to go towards (wells, orphans, teachers, pastors) and Only God International will send them a record for their tax deductions and also a picture and details of the well they sponsored. Think about this; show this picture (I can send you more) and decide with a group of people to adopt a village - drill a well, pay the $30 a month for a teacher, and $75 for a pastor for the Palm Hut Church. That's about $1,760 for one year. You will save the lives of hundreds of people every year for years by drilling this well. Even better, you will be raising up a generation of girls and boys who can transform their village because they will know their value, they will feel empowered, and some will move on to jobs that can save the lives of half the untouchables in their village. The pastors will lead people out of religions that are fear-based and keep the people enslaved. If even 10 people took on such a project (some are less or more), their daily investment would be 49 cents per day (Perhaps indulge in one less latte every third day).

I will ask Dr. Kumar for updates regarding this little boy. I've personally reached out and touched little boys like this one kid and watched their eyes come alive with hope. They deserve life just as much as me. I didn't choose my parents. I've had so many hundreds of people invest freely in my life (and many are still doing it)! I'm so in love with Jesus. Laura and I are so excited to keep dreaming about more ways to continue to BE the light of the world. The book of James is becoming even more alive in our hearts. Ask me about some of the "world loaning" opportunities for the poorest women in the world - it's a fantastic way to re-give over and over with an investment of less than $50.

Pray, follow your convictions, share with others! Repeat to yourself over and over, "We can't do everything, but we all can do something."

Feel free to email me with questions and ideas (Bruce.lhceast@gmail.com).

Bruce's blog: What to snowshoe with us, climb a tall Mountain, or go cycling, even a movie (we're going this week) - then check in on my personal blog (HERE)

This week UPDATE - Sun Feb. 21 -27

2010-02-23T18:46:00.000-08:00

Mark 10:17ff has a story of a "Rich Young Upwardly Mobile" man meeting Jesus and asking him how one makes sure heaven is a "for sure" deal!

The first thing we see is that this young man "runs" to Jesus and kneels before Him:

Run = A Greek word which means "to run quickly." Used to illustrate an "all out effort;" so it's normal that Paul uses it to talk about "running in a race." Hebrews 12:1-2 and I Corinthians 9:24-25 are very cool passages that speak of this race. The word used for describing the man kneelling is "to fall onto one's knees." All through the Eastern world this is a sign of extreme respect.

"What must I do?" This is the normal question for someone who is desperate to have God in their life. Romans 4:4-5 (NLT) puts it this way, "When people work, their wages

are not a gift, but something they have earned. ⁵ But people are counted as righteous, not because of their work, but because of their faith in God who forgives sinners."

Jesus often answers us in the way we "expect Him to" - but the longer we listen, the more likely He will speak to us of "strange" things we never imagined. We can choose to "barter" or demand a "business deal." But relationships with God are never for sale!

"Sell everything and give it to the homeless - Then walk with me." Catch this, Jesus knows that when I've got nothing to "add" to His ministry, no reserves which I can use to "do something with" - then I'm a beggar dependent on His grace alone. What makes me wealthy? Family, security in religious knowledge? My safe, "Calculating" lifestyle? Jesus' question is, "What makes you most self-reliant?" Give it up and walk down "My road." Matthew 5 is a snapshot of the kind of people who best serve in God's Kingdom (a re-read is a must).

In this state, all we can say is, "Freely I've received, so freely I'

m going to give." Mark 10:8.

Finally - The words of Solomon so raced through my mind as Pastor John spoke this past weekend; Proverbs 11:24-25 - Read them, then pray through the following questions:

1. What makes me wealthy? My friendships? My family stability? My strong faith because of trials I've endured? My church?

2. How will I share this wealth to someone in need this week?

3. Have I been stingy with my resources (financial and other)?

4. How often will I ask God to show me where HE wants me to invest this wealth I have?

Check back later this week for the story of the eight year old from India

This Week - Sun Feb. 21 -27

2010-02-21T05:40:00.000-08:00

Check out Bruce's personal Valentines Report card for 2010 (HERE)! The picture to the right is Laura wearing her new (1.5 hrs old) earrings!

Later this week: The pictures and the story of the little eight year old from India who has cancer and just got exiled from his village this last week (some amazing ways we can make a difference)!

Also, a behind the scenes dig into the Bible - Mark 10 (The Rich Young Ruler).

Here are a couple pictures from Bruce

& Laura's Valentines Get-away

Feb. 14 - "From India with Love" special story

2010-02-11T12:36:00.000-08:00

I cried, had goosebumps, in fact I'm still in shock . . . the email I opened from Dr. Kumar this morning has really messed with my head . . . It blows me away! God is up to some "unreal", amazing stuff! Really!

So, here's the deal, we have been planning to show some video clips and tell stories regarding our trip to India (we're two weeks back from our trip). Little did I know how this story of God's mighty power would play with my mind and become front and center of what I will share this Sunday for our Valentine Special.

The story is a modern day "Saul to Paul" event and I still can't believe God used our team to be a small part of it.

No, I'm not going to tell you the story in this blog, but the picture I uploaded is a good hint (I will be telling this amazing story this Sunday). Please join us Feb. 14, this Sunday, for a special 30 min. Valentine love story and video special! Check out the details below, then call, text, and Facebook your friends -invite them to join you for this amazing story.

Date: February 14 (Valentine's Day guys!)

Place: East Vancouver Campus

Times: 8 a.m. and 12:20 p.m. (before the 9 a.m. service and following the 11)

Stuff: Food treats, incredible love stories from India, and a chance to be fantastically inspired by what God is doing!

This Sunday (our services are 9am & 11am) is the 2nd week in our Love Pirates Series - It's a good one! Come at 8 a.m. or 11 and enjoy the Valentine's Special AND the Pirates sermon. This will be one Valentine's weekend you won't forget!

Contrast makes better pictures - Post India

2010-01-30T16:17:00.000-08:00

When there's little contrast, it's difficult to capture beauty. There are several roads my mind wants to wander down right now, but I'll try to turn around quickly when I start down one.

This weekend at Living Hope is Baptism weekend! We will be sharing stories that I believe will bring so much renewal, hope, and encouragement to all of us. Laura and I look forward to seeing you at the 9 or 11 a.m. service.

The contrast of India to Dubai to Portland/Vancouver was so drastic. But what does remain the same all over the world is the need for genuine friendship. With Jesus alive and living out of us we do became light, salt, and a wonderful smell.

A week ago, five us stood next to a little church built of Palm. The children, some 35 yards away, had never seen a "White person" before. The pastor road his bicycle to this little village (2,000) and preached in the church he built with his hands. Dr. Kumar has planted hundreds of little churches like this and he currently oversees 900 pastors. None of these belong to a denomination. Living Hope is one of many who contribute to this mission work. Less than 48 hours ago Laura, Gordon and I were eating in a wonderful little Italian restaurant in Dubai (one of the wealthiest cities in the world). We were seated outside, looking up at the worlds tallest building, while watching a beautiful water show. The choreographed music, shining moon, and warm wealth made it easy to forget the poverty of India. And then we met our server, a young lady from India. Contrast can keep us living in reality.

I can only say that every prayer, every dollar, and all your hard work at our campus while we were gone did much to further God's kingdom. The harvest is so ripe, and it seems like there will never be enough resources or willing hands; but that must never stop us from working together to take the love of Jesus to everyone, everywhere - Dubai, Haiti, and India.

This weekend we will see many more baptized into Jesus. Hope to see you Sunday. When I'm more rested I'll post more stories here. I also hope to post pictures on my Facebook soon.

Jan 24 - India

2010-01-24T18:09:00.000-08:00

The instant Starbucks I brought tastes like heaven this morning (it's crazy how tired you can be). I got to be at 12:50 last night (new record) and was able to sleep a little past 6:30 (being old sucks)! Anyway I'm still filled with awe about yesterday.

From the snake charmer rubbing an herb on the head of a cobra and then being able to rub his hand on it's head for a few minutes to the level of security around you at all times - It's like living in another world. When your seated on the makeshift stages you are brought a pop. It was Sprite until I mentioned to Dr. Kumar that Coke or Pepsi would be better (Everyone else is now drinking Pepsi with me - ha). The respect given is beyond what I've seen in the Far East. I explain the Believers that we are ONE but they are filled with such expressions on their faces when we lay our hands on them, touch them, smile and look into their eyes.

When we arrived in the village (Dr. Kumar corrected me that it is NOT a city) of 40,000 we came to two churches Dr. Kumar planted. They are just small building that will hold about 100 people or so (50 American size). They had put up bamboo in the narrow street between the houses and illigally used electricity from the church (If they are reported to the goverment they are in big trouble - that is why they usually use generators when Missionary's preach).

Dr. Kumar had told me that perhaps the 300 believers would bring 200 Hindus. The street was so narrow that they could only seat about 10 chairs accross. As far as I could see down the street there were people. They Hindus will not come to the front. The children sang, they had two drum players and the power of their singing was more moving than a Gordon Avenue concert :). The smiles from the people was amazing. These people are very simple and my joke about my parrot at home had fallen flat every time. I was determined. This time (by the power of God . . . or bruce) it worked - So much fun. The people laughed and raised their hands when I asked them if they aggreed with me that Laura is the most beautiful woman in all the world. Dr. Kumar then told me that many men were now in trouble with their wives (He got me - I was concerned until I realized he now know how to joke. It was great fun.). When we left we discoverd that they had sat out 1,000 chairs and everyone was full, and a large croud was still standing (people were watching out the windows of their homes too).

I spoke on the man from the high caste of kings/rulers - he was rich, young and had kept many rules; still his heart said, "There must be one more rule to have Eternal Life." For the people to hear of Jesus asking him to give everything to the poor and become a Gypse is very shocking. I then explained that this man then had no sacrafices or gifts he would be able to offer - only his heart receiving the Creator God's true Son. To see every hand go up as I explained how they can say yes and become God's children not ceased to amaze me. I read to them the "Holy word of the Creator God of all people and all gods; It is easier for a Waterbuffalow to crawl through the eye of a needle than for someone who have much wealth in sacrifices to enter Eternal life."

Our service to God does not bring more of His love; I'm so sad that I've often worshipped serving more than the devotion and friendship to my forever friend Jesus. It is so clear that there is NOTHING we have to offer.

I ended with the story of defeated, beat down disciples saying, "Then it is impossible to be saved." BUT, BUT . . . "What is impossible for humans, is ALWAYS possible with God!" They had tables set up that the people had to weave through so the crouds wouldn't press to hard on us. We prayed over 80-90% of the people. As the Hindus came up from the back, many of them peeled the red dot from their forhead. Some of them were perhaps beat last night when they returned home with a fire of Jesus Christ in their life.

Today we are off to a mission post by the sea that is owned by Dr. Kumar - it has 6 acres and we will eat fresh fish, take pictures of what we can do with the foundation that has already been poured. Dr. Kumar wants it to become an Living Hope Church to serve the 40 churches he has raise up around it. There are so many Untouchable caste people in this place. Tomorrow we do more baptizms and then Laura and I fly back to Chennai to help Caleb before we leave. I so look forward to mentoring this young, yet experienced, pastor and his wife. They are beautiful people. I would also say, that next to my own father, I've never met a more humble man, who loves people will all his heart, than Dr. Kumar. He is truly amazing.

Love you and again thank you so much for your prayers and forever investment! The Baptism this Sunday at our East Vancouver Campus will be so Only God! See you soon.

P.S. "Super bowl at our home" - I've no idea who's playing :)

India - January 22-23

2010-01-23T20:59:00.000-08:00

Thursday was a "Mars Hill" (the original :) experience. I was speaking to about 300 pastors (there were another 600 that wanted to come but these are the poorest of poor people in the world), including several women who serve women here in Rajahmundry. A group, perhaps 6 or 7, 0f Hindu priests had filed in and sat in the front row. After a few minutes, the security reseated them in the back (they usually disturb the meetings - I've had this happen several times in my cell-phone preaching). The priests are the highest caste in India. The word Brahmin means "children of the gods." For thousands of years the people have believed everyone is born into one of four divisions (Castes). The head is the Brahman (priests), then the chest is the Kings (leaders, presidents, governors, etc.) and the thigh are the business class. The feet are the Untouchables. Like in Thailand, the feet are considered the worst part of the body (I told of Jesus washing Judas' feet -wow, it blew them away).

Most of the pastors in India are from the lowest Caste, the Untouchables. Dr. Kumar and his brother escaped the worst conditions, as untouchables, through education. Meeting Jesus changed their lives and now they are leading thousands to a forever friendship with Jesus. Dr. Kumar's brother lives in Finland and is an engineer. He supports the work here a great deal. So back to my story . . . the priests in the back row are very rich, and very powerful. Dr. Kumar was suffering from a Hypoglycemia attach while I was speaking (the Coke he was drinking was his way of making it through the translation - I didn't know this was happening). At the end of my pastors' training period I had the young pastors who want to remain in the cities and not go out into the villages come forward and dedicate their one and only life to serving the poorest of the poor (Matt. 25 - "You fed me, clothed me, when you did it to the lowest Caste in all the world" . . . I'm crying as I write this too you - you cannot believe what it is like to place your hands on the ancient, tired faces, of old men and pray for them to receive God's peace). The young pastors struggle with purity, materialism, and fear - many came forward. We then laid our hands on all the men and women there.

I then spoke for about 10 minutes to the priests. I spoke of the God who created all gods and loves them even though they don't know Him or love Him. I asked if they would like to come forward and let me bless them in the name of the Eternal God who created all and is above all. To the shock of Dr. Kumar and the pastors (they have great fear, and often hatred for these men - they abuse many children and are very dangerous).

The security didn't want me to come down off the stage but I felt the most magnet drawing I've ever felt - I prayed and looked deeply into all their eyes - One woman priest and one "very scary" priest wouldn't look in my eyes, but when I laid my hands on the head of the "top dog" we had a major "stare down." The priest put his hands together in honor and I will never forget the prayer I prayed for this man (I thought of Saul - Paul, and the extremely wicked king Agrippa). I may never see the miracles God will work in these priests' lives, but I was told that the pastors received so much encouragement from this experience they are pleading for me to return and train them some more. I feel so weak in terms of speaking, but the pastors say that I speak to their heart in such a way that they want me to return over and over.

The second night of our pastors training the crowds doubled (from 1,200 to perhaps 2,500). Pastor Kumar tells me that if I will return and do a three-day pastors training and three night crusade that about 70,000 people will attend. These people have almost no hope, they are all so hungry for God's love. The response was a miracle (almost every Hindu accepted Jesus).

The security is so weird; we go nowhere without them. As more than 2,000 people came forward for us to lay our hands on them the security would grab the hands of some men who had their hands inside their coats (this is winter season and it was very cold for them - ll:30 p.m. and about 79 degrees). The security was afraid of an extremist who might be concealing a knife. I did shudder a couple of times but God's protection has been very strong.

We did a small baptism before Jim, Diana, and Dan left to return to the states (yesterday - Sat.). There were 60 people who had waited a long time for a missionary to baptize them. The Untouchables are so encouraged by having an "American" baptize them - they tell us they will never forget our touch for the rest of their lives - having security pull away little grandmas who have fallen to our feet to kiss them is very disturbing; I know that it will make them feel so blessed by God, but I want so much to explain that they are God's Holy, Chosen Children as much as we are. I've touched the faces of so many pastors - they are not controlled by the religious customs, the stupid rules we are often burdened with - Last night they played to a small village we were playing in (10,000 people in this village) and had Don Taylor dance a wild dance (this too was very disturbing - ha). They told the people that God's King David had danced before the Lord - Don did his very best at swinging his hips and attempting to impersonate Michael Jackson. I about died - but the pastors loved it and used the opportunity to attract so many Hindus. I love the simple, unhindered devotion of these pastors. Like us there are many dead churches in India. They do have pastors who do not want to go out to the lowest, the lost. They do have traditions in the cities that hinder the simple message of Jesus. But Dr. Kumar is amazing at teaching and leading these 900 pastors who belong to NO denomination, but simply suffer for Jesus.

So I'm rambling - Last night Echo laid her hands on a woman's stomach that was swollen and had a huge hard lump. As she finished praying for healing her eyes suddenly exploded into giant balloons of surprise, as did the woman asking for healing (she had just accepted Jesus into her life). The stomach had immediately gone down and the lump had disappeared.

As we raced through the night (11 p.m. + we cried and prayed for God's incredible power and love) I had our Monkey King (the strongest of all Indian gods) Darrell share about his wife leaving him and choosing not to love him. He cried and the Indian pastors came and prayed over him. Everyone was very touched. I spoke of the Lost Coin last night and how our Creator God will look and seek to find the 1 Rupee person (who is more valuable than 1,000 R.) The children's eyes were large as I threw the rupee on the ground. But when I dropped a 10 R. bill they were totally with me - I spoke of how silly it would be to search for the One Rupee. It was truly an amazing night (I slept so little last night - we are all very physically tired).

Our Son Gordon was left in Chennai with pastor Caleb and they got connected with one of the biggest rock music producers in Southern India. The connections to bring back his band and play are huge. His desire is to then do concerts for the poorest of the poor. The youth in Rajahmundry have heard a couple of his songs - via my cell phone preaching - and Dr. Kumar would love to do a large gathering to use Gordon's music and then have him preach. Gordon is very loved by the children and youth. Several girls were giggling and flirting with him (to his horror he discovered that some of these young Gypsy girls were married - the team teased him a lot. We go nowhere alone). To my wife's horror she discovered that one of the pastors took Gordon through Chennai traffic on a motorcycle. You should read his blog. http://feeds.feedburner.com/wordpress/gordonavenue

All of us are so excited to be together now in Rajahmundry (except for Gordon, who is in Chennai). Last night we stopped on a very lonely road and the guys christened the one side of the road while the ladies giggled behind a haystack (After the guards checked for Cobras). Life is so, so different here - we are on one incredible adventure - this culture reminds Laura and I of being in the remote parts of Korea 31 years ago.

The level of honor shown to us is so humbling (very difficult to accept - we feel so unworthy). We toured the second most holy river in India (the one we did the baptism in yesterday). The priests were not happy. We saw bodies being unloaded and others being cremated. This river has had 70 million people, from outside of India, come and dip into it to receive some sort of holy blessing. It's so sad. I am determined to do whatever I can, be it in India, Africa, or Clark County to be God's light and to be a sweet smell (Stumptown coffee) that will lead, if possible, every person to a forever friendship with Jesus.

Thank you for sharing your resources. I'll be bringing back so many pictures and so much video. We can share how you can sponsor a village (we have six acres that Dr. Kumar owns that he has a foundation on and wants to have us build a Living Hope Church on). The well is drilled (they still need $1,600 for electricity hookup and a pump) and they have a small clinic. They also have one acre of teak trees planted (they are six years old and will be harvested in 10 more years for half a million dollars). We are wanting to plant another acre of teak and also plant some trees for paper - these can be harvested in a much shorter period of time. If we build but one floor on the current foundation we could be able to seat 500 people at a time. They have raised up 40 churches in the village nearby and there are a thousand more seeking to follow Jesus. This is just one example of the investment you could be a part of. We visited a small hut that was perhaps 100 sq. feet, built by hand from Coconut trees. The pastor is very poor but so dedicated. If we drill a well ($300 - $600) the Untouchables could come for free water (the upper classes won't let them now). They will use this hut to open a school as well. The people who live around this hut had never seen a foreigner before. . .

I've got to go, but thank you for your prayers . . . did you really read all of this? I'm trying to chat on Facebook and checking what you write there. I hope to Skype to our East Vancouver Campus on Sunday -we'll see. Love you and so appreciate your Facebook responses.

I'm hoping Elizabeth edited this blog :) Laura just slipped in and started editing (I got perhaps one hour sleep last night . . . I did bring Starbucks coffee with me :)

If I don't return home it's all Pastor John's fault. If I start traveling overseas every couple months it will also be Pastor John's fault (and the Holy Spirit's). God bless - the Internet connection is so slow . . . love :)

Thursday - Jan. 21st

2010-01-21T19:54:00.000-08:00

I'm running out of time - we're off to a remote island to visit a possible Living Hope Church plant. I spoke to 300+ pastors yesterday. I had Dan & Jim share about Dan's children (Jim's Grandchildren) with the pastors. We have all been praying for little Moriah who has seizures and is in need of healing. But for two weeks her older sister Ellie (7 yr.) has had a compacted bowel. The x-rays showed a blockage. For the past 3-4 days the doctors have worked to try and treat her without admitting her - last night as I was preaching to about 1,200 lost people I had Jim and Dan share again. Spontaneously, Dr. Kumar called up the most senior pastors who have risked their lives for many years to come onto the stage and pray for the children. At that very moment, unaware, Michelle was with Ellie at the hospital having another x-ray. They were going to admit Ellie. When the x-ray came back there was not blockage - the doctor was amazed. She had not had any bowel movement - she was just healed! It was the most amazing prayer time I've ever experienced. Almost 100% of the people that were there last night were saved. I'll write more about the Hindu priest I placed my hands on and prayed for. Pray for us as the security is concerned that someone will come up for prayer with a knife as we are moving very close to the people. God is strong. It is unbelievable. Must go - more later

5th Day in India (Wow!)

2010-01-20T06:00:00.000-08:00

From Dubai, with its Starbucks, to Chennai with the Gypsy village favorite - roasted Chipmunk, the contrast is beyond words (or pictures). The people are so much more hungry in this country and they so openly accept God's Forever love. Sunday my heart was so blown away in the rag picker's village (garbage collectors), they so quickly turned their lives over to the ONLY God. They have hoped their entire lives for a god to love them - Their eyes and hearts are so open.

Last night in Rajahmundry I spoke for the first time to a group of perhaps 200 people on the side of the road. Two pastors had built a stage and hung lights in the widest part of the village. As we drove there, about 8:30 p.m., Dr Kumar's driver suddenly pulled over and another vehicle pulled in front. "They are our security guard and they will protect us," said Dr. Kumar. He told me that because of the orphanage and free medical aid he provided he was protected by the government. His guards had contacted the local police and they were ready to help us if there were any problems.

When I finished speaking I was amazed to see almost every hand go up in response to my invitation. I explained again and asked them to stand. They have no gods who run after them and want to have a friendship of love. They only know the struggle of offering sacrifices and trying to "be good." When we finished, every one of them came up and our entire team prayed for them one by one (sometimes by two's), laying our hands on them. I saw old men with tears in their eyes, young teenaged boys, and many women. We prayed for cripples and those with so many physical problems. My heart broke with joy and sadness at the same time.

Today while praying for people in the Hospital Mission, I learned from Dr. Kumar that the economy (ours) had reduced the number of surgeries from 40 per week to 4- 6. They have no money to do them. The inpatient services have been suspended (72 beds) and they are now housing young girls from the orphanage. We served and prayed for 70 or 80 people in a two hour period.

Tomorow we will visit a village that we might drill a well in - pray for these people, they are so hungry to know our Father.

I'm sorry the internet is so slow it' s hard to upload pictures. Tomorrow I will speak to a much larger gathering of hungry-and-in need-of-Jesus people. We will be training pastors too. You can follow me on my Facebook, too. Thank you for your prayers, Facebook notes, and emails.

I've got a few pics on my Facebook.

Bruce, Laura, and the Only God team

We're in Dubai - Almost to India

2010-01-15T11:45:00.000-08:00

So I'm in the airport at Dubai. The rest of our team will land in Chennai at 2:30 a.m. Jan. 16. We're not getting there until 8:30 (much better:).

Our San Francisco flight was over 15 hrs - wow, not so easy for a guy who can't sleep on planes. I've met several people from India already and have had some very cool talks. Here's a quick video of our team as we got ready to leave Portland, and then again in San Francisco.

Maybe our last Video report before flying out to India

2010-01-13T06:36:00.000-08:00

Wow, it's almost here:

TODAY'S PRAYER LIST:

Our team - Dan, Darrell, Don, Jim, Lance, Gordon, and Bruce (IT, Construction, Music, and Preacher Dude - our ministries); Carla, Diana, Echo, Laura, and Nicki (their ministry - RN, Teacher, Prayer Warrior/Women's ministry, RN, & RN). Pray for them as they pack, finish details, scramble for last minute sponsorships, do stretching exercises, and prepare their testimonies - everyone will share the gospel in India :)

Our lead-pastor - Pastor John and Pastor Duane will be hanging out with me as we pray and listen as to the final details God wants to share with us on this trip (the detail might just be "keep trusting Me"). We are the Light on a hill (LHC) to a very dark world (not just Clark County)! We didn't choose to be light - God chose us! God chooses all who say yes to His forever love!

Silly- in the bathrobe video (enjoy; please?):

Last Team Meeting - so many details

2010-01-10T23:47:00.000-08:00

1. We have so much to do to get ready for our flight, but NOTHING is as important as preparing our hearts to hear God's whisper and the openness to follow.

2. Kid's toys (Matchbox cars, small stuffed animals, coloring books), more Medical supplies, and even some more funds came into day ($550) - It's so amazing to see so many people praying, sharing, and simply having a heart for the people God loves so much!

3. Still working on getting set up better on Skype and working out details on uploading videos. Thank you so much for your prayers!

Hey, you can find my video updates by going to You Tube and searching under brucelhc. You can also subscribe to my You Tube account (upper right corner of YouTube) and get an email every time I upload a video from India.

Getting Ready

2010-01-09T22:31:00.000-08:00

What can you do to help us these last few days before we leave for India?

1. Pray - One of our team members is very low on funds (worried about rent $ when they get back); One of our builders, Lance, is worried about his mother who is in the hospital and waiting for open heart surgery. Pray for all the crazy schedules we face. Pray for safety, and most of all pray that God's love with shine into every dark part of this world we step into.

2. Serve - You can step up and help while we are gone: Please see Elizabeth at our welcome center for a list of ways you can step in (four of our key volunteers will be gone from our campus).

3. Get your friends to pray and check out our updates. You can go on Facebook (R we friends?), and check back on this site as well.

Here's a late night test via my MacBook to make sure the YouTube video's are working (link)

Want to send a few things over with us? Throat lozenges, balloons, Tic-tacs, Starbucks instant coffee packs (for our team), combs, small packs of toothpaste & toothbrushes (You would need to contact Bruce by Tuesday a.m. at the latest - Bruce.lhceast@gmail.com

It's still coming - New Flip Camcorder test

2010-01-05T17:18:00.001-08:00

Our meeting on Sunday was fantastic! Lance, one of our construction guys, was there with his wife, his prayers, and still not enough money to make it to India. Less than two hours later Lance was on his knees, his eyes bubbling with tears, as we prayed together a praise for a couple who called to say they were willing to sponsor Lance!

I'm hoping to find time to try uploading the intro of our team from my trial "FlipHD" camcorder. Thousands of dollars came in this weekend for India (I'm still a bit overwhelmed). There is so much to do still. I'll be updating you regarding the dreams God is feeding in our hearts ($75 a month pays an Only God pastor - I get to train him, and rent a building for a new church . . . how about getting together a group and sponsor one of these pastors who is waiting for our arrival in less than two weeks)?

I'll tell you more about what we are now going to be able to do and what we are still dreaming of - remember $1 literally will bring a person into a Forever-Friendship with Jesus! If you want to read about my Agnostic friend who gave me a dollar to take to India, click here :) and then pray for him and the amazing difference that $1 will make!

Update on India - Dec. 30

2009-12-30T16:21:00.000-08:00

I Just had the most exciting, dangerous, meeting this morning with my friend Pastor Duane: Wow, be careful - - you might just "get" what I've got!

Reminder: Someone told me that if I invested ONE dollar ($1) that God would use it to bring almost unbelievable change - transforming hope into someone's life I cared a great deal about! Interested in what I did? Ok, finish reading my blog update, then you'll

find out at the end of this blog - be kind and entertain me :-)

India Update: Oh my . . . I'm looking to find investors for a really amazing idea: If we buy a piece of land in a village that doesn't allow people from lower castes to use the village well, we could drill and build our own well and give away water to everyone for free. Then we would rent a building ($25 a month) next to "our land" and hire a pastor ($50 a month) and WOW, what a difference we would make! Forever! Interested in joining me? I'm collecting villages now from India. More as soon as I hear back from my friend Dr. Kumar in Rajahmundry.

And . . . for $10,000 we could add a roof to a hospital Dr. Kumar runs in a town that has no building where Jesus is shared. We could use this "upper room" for orphans during the week. People receiving treatment (all castes accepted) and their families could take the stairs to the top floor and learn about Jesus - maybe even hear me on one of my weekly cell-phone preaching times. Do you want to be aware of how influential God made you? You can! Dream about it, pray about it, talk out loud about it!

Reminder (continued):

I said yes, but I didn't really want to! I didn't know that I was so in love this this person whose life was about to be changed forever. It was my first opportunity to speak via cell phone to people so lost in darkness, in some of the poorest parts of our globe - India. It cost me more than $1 in time, but once I did it I was bit and there's no antidote, no cure! I know you've heard me say it, but $1 will make a forever difference! It's true! And you can give me even $1 and I'll be so grateful (all our expenses are already paid). Laura and I have invested a few thousand dollars God lent us over these past few years in this God Adventure . . . and we're still dreaming and

scheming as to how we can come up with more (we'll do anything that's not illegal and against God's best)! I even thought about visiting a 7-11 late at night (wearing an Only God Ski mask) . . . well, not really . . . but could be funny . . . (keep praying for me).

Pictures: 1) Speaking via cell phone on a Fri. morning in the 'Couv, 2) one of the nicer Churches, 3) Leading an entire remote village out of Spirit worship into a relationship with Jesus (the whole village lived on telling people their future - they're being persecuted now). 4) A village hut.

ONLY a few hrs left - READ & PASS ON TO FRIENDS

2009-12-24T09:02:00.000-08:00

TODAY, you might want to:

1 - Read Luke 2 (see the Dec. 23 link to my Christmas devotional)

2 - Bring a friend to our Live Nativity Christmas Show at our Main campus (times listed on our Dec. 23 blog)

3 - Check out my "10 Great, Healthy, Creative Gifts" on my blog!

Merry Christmas - "Freely you have received, freely give!"

Living Hope Live Nativity Story

2009-12-23T09:59:00.000-08:00

Bring your friends tonight (Wed) at 7 p.m. to our Living Hope Christmas Story. The animals, the simple, powerful story of Jesus' birth, and Pastor John's message will touch lives - Bring your friends. Laura and I hope to see you tonight.

Christmas Eve:

Here are the updated times: 3:30, 5:00, 6:30 & 8 p.m. (Link)

Check back all this week for devotionals, links to Bruce's Last minute shopping list (some great suggestions) and more! (Check out Today's Christmas notes)

This Sunday - One of my favorite stories

2009-12-18T13:52:00.000-08:00

I can hardly wait to tell one of my favorite stories from one of my favorite authors (This Sunday, Dec. 20, 9 & 11 a.m.) at our East Vancouver Campus!

Also, Adam is working on a cover song from a Portland Band who's # 4 hit song has deeply touched my life, especially after meeting the songwriter in 2004.

The story of Willie Juan, known as Little Trout, is the story a little boys broken life is changed by a Medicine Man who sweeps into town. After telling this story at the Main Campus a few years ago, I've had several people tell me how hope-filling this story is - For me, it's a perfect story for Christmas.

Please bring your family and friends to our East Vancouver Campus this Sunday (Laura and I will be at the Saturday 5 p.m. and Wednesday Christmas play showing at the Main Campus - We'd love to see you there (Christmas show plays Sat at 5 & 7, Sunday at 1:30 p.m. and Tue and Wed. at 7 p.m.).

Come help us share cloths with the homeless

2009-12-12T21:30:00.000-08:00

Sunday, December 13 @ 2:30 p.m.

MEET: Starbucks (Near the Airport IKEA) across from the Max

Leave: 3p.m. from the Max Station

We will Christmas Carol on the Max (with Santa) to Pioneer Square.

At Pioneer Square we will meet a Living Hope Van and distribute coats to the homeless.

After that we will take pictures by the BIG TREE and then play at the Mall (or wherever).

Questions - Bruce.lhceast@gmail.com

Our Christmas Show was Amazing - So will be Dec. 13

2009-12-05T09:53:00.000-08:00

DONT STOP READING (The details of our Big Christmas Max Caroling Trip on Dec. 13 is at the end of this blog)!

Our church was rocking last night. At 6:30 we had about 100 people viewing art and waiting for the food bars to open (4 tables of very heavenly food - high calorie-burns off quick because of the intense excitement!). By 7:15 we had 250 people; the tables were full, the chairs around two walls were full and a whole bunch were standing, eating, laughing and enjoying a very beautifully decorated auditorium (8 walls of art! Three beautiful trees! Lights! And did I mention the food - I think it was created by the Next Iron Chef! :)

The live music was Killer and having two well known artists show up was way cool. Seven NW Artists were represented -about $25,000 worth the art! Ron Jones was a big hit. Ron and his wife Sara serve at our Battle Ground campus. Ron directs the 6th Street Gallery in downtown Vancouver. The response to his work was great. Audrey Carson's Glow-in-the Dark exhibit was fun (5 pieces sold). I'm not sure how much money was raised for our India trip (All the artist's are donating 30-50% of the sales price to our India trip in January). We also raised $600 for local families that need help this Christmas; all from the silent auction of our Christmas ornaments! Wow! Someone bought the Huskies dog ornament before I could -DOG! Isaac got his Duck's ornament and I did get a Husky Christmas ball.

After Santa had mingled, had a bunch of kids, and a beautiful woman sit on his knee (Adam isn't a woman but he got to sit on Santa's lap and get his mug shot . . . did you see it?), we sang, along with Adam, some favorite Christmas Carols. Then the lights faded and the Video clip from Jody Foster's movie Contact began (well the sound track started first and the video tried to play catch-up a bit later . . . oh well . . .). Then out of darkness two spot lights highlighted a cradle with Marty and Tina's little baby Colt (about 3 weeks old) cooing and instantly capturing our hearts. Walking across the stage, picking up this tiny blue-eyed baby boy so touched my heart. Four of our prayer team warriors huddled in the dark, just off the stage, praying their hearts out (Thanks Ben, Kathy, Lynn and Joan). For the next 13 minutes I shared about the vulnerable, no-holds-barred gift of God - Himself, coming down and giving us Forever-love.

I shared about our East Vancouver members Julie and Jimmy and their eight year old son. Julie had a blood pressure of 30 for several hours and the doctors told me Tuesday morning she might not pull through. The respirator that kept her alive, and the prayers of her husband, so remind me that there is nothing with real lasting value, except knowing that God is LOVE! Jimmy has been off Meth for almost two years. His wife Julie, who is a Quad/Paraplegic, had asked to be baptized at our last Baptismal Sunday. She has open wounds that aren't healing. Julie became diabetic after her car crash that left her paralyzed in 1992. We were waiting for medical permission before baptizing her.

The doctors told Jimmy and me that if Julie made it she might have brain damage and her liver could be damaged. "She is a very sick" said the doctor, "we just don't know if she will make it." When I showed up Wednesday morning Julie's body had made a miracle turn-around. She was able to nod her head when we asked her questions. Jimmy is busy moving between his wife's room and her mother's (She went in at the same time as Julie with pneumonia and was across the hall in ICU). Both Mom and daughter have improved. Julie and Jimmy's little boy Josh is missing his momma but doing good. This is one of the families we will bless this Christmas with gifts, love, and a lot more prayers (It's so inspiring to see our prayer team reach out to this family). Julie's dad who doesn't go to church told his wife (She gets out of the hospital today or tomorrow) he wants to meet me.

NOW THIS IS COOL - As I finished sharing I prayed that just ONE gift would rise up in every one of our hearts - JESUS! In the dark of a wonderful Christmas evening show, 13 people raised their hands to affirm they had just prayed to accept Jesus ! This made the hundreds of hours of work, by so many people (Andrea, Darlena, Kathy and her Hulk-handsome man Morrie, Michelle, Chelyncia, Duane, Don, Ron Jones, Audrey and about twenty-five more cooks, cleaners, shoppers (I know I forgot some key players - sorry) SO, SO WORTH IT ALL!!

We had so many of our members bring friends - All of heaven was smiling, dancing (So U think you can dance, winning choreographed numbers! There were some really happy Angels last night), and saying over and over "This IS what really counts!" Even if just ONE person had come last night and accepted Jesus as their Forever-Friend it was worth it for me!

I'm so proud to be part of a church like Living Hope! Thank you for valuing this way of reaching more people for Jesus! It was so much fun. Seeing new volunteers cleaning up last night (10 p.m.) was very inspiring (Oh I almost forgot, Angela Taylor and her studly men (Tom and Jeremy) so poured themselves into helping. Andrea was working while sick, and Butch was our Master of Ceremony; he also ran our Video and lights booth (Then he flew out very early this morning for Japan - what a dedicated worker for God!). Another couple who helped out last night flew out this morning to Hawaii. I can't think of anything else I would rather burn out, give out, put out and invest in than the ministry of loving people with a Jesus love that is changing their lives. I shared Colossians 4:14 with our guests last night: "And the most important piece of clothing you must wear is love." Take some time this week to read I John 4 (especially verse 7-11, 16-18).

Two final words about last night: ONLY GOD!

NOW- a few details about Dec. 13:

We are leaving on the Max train (Airport station by IKEA and Star Bucks) at 3 p.m. (be at Star Bucks by 2:30 p.m.) to Christmas Carol until we land at Pioneer Square!

1) U don't have to sing to join us! It's so much fun (Santa's a big flirt, the candy canes bring smiles to those on the train . . . I've even seen people cry and thank us when we sing).

2) When we arrive at Pioneer Square we will be met with coats and food that we can share with homeless friends who will so see Jesus in us - this is so, so rewarding (dress warm and bring our smiles!)

3) After about 20 min of sharing coats and food we will take pictures by the big tree, then go over to the mall and view the Ginger Bread house competition (and drop in Sharper Image store :)

4) You can hang out and play with us as long as you like (If you need to be a work by 5 a.m. you should be able to catch the max back and be in bed by 8:15 p.m. easy - even earlier if you like :)

5) What to bring? Money for the Max. Warm clothes, 16 oz of H20, and your most festive Christmas spirit! Questions or ideas - Bruce.lhceast@gmail.com.

Our 1st Living Hope Christmas Show at our East Campus

2009-11-22T06:25:00.000-08:00

It's all happening Friday, December 4 at 7 p.m. (Come early to see the Glow-in-the-dark Art of Audrey Carson) at our East Vancouver Campus.

LIVE MUSIC

FOOD to DIE for

GUARANTEED SANTA SIGHTING (He promised to be here!)

HUGE ART EXHIBIT

CHRISTMAS ORNAMENT AUCTION (Silent but lively!)

AND MORE . . .

KEEP READING FOR DETAILS :-)

This will be a wonderful evening that begins with live music, amazing food, and our largest ever art exhibit. We will have opportunities for children to get their picture taken with the number ONE Santa in the NW (There’s only one right?).

Our three decorated trees, that will bring so much Christmas joy to those who need help this Christmas, will help add to the nostalgic, wonderful atmosphere that will bring a warm smile to the guests you've invited.

The Silent Auction of Christmas ornaments will let us buy food to add to the GIFT CARD Christmas baskets we will share with those in our church and beyond who are struggling this Christmas. We need you to purchase fun, unique, or just simply beautiful ornaments to add to one of our three trees. Those of us leaders who are working in the main auditorium are competing with Kid’s World and Women’s Ministries to see which tree gets voted Living Hope East's BEST! Fun!

Our Art Wall will be expanded to show several local artists. The main feature will be Pen & Ink Artist, Ron Jones. Ron Jones of Sixth Street Gallery in Vancouver is very active in the Local art scene. Ron took part in Living Hope Church’s Christmas show last year by painting the large murals that were used as part of John’s message. Jones has been featured in Art in America International Review, 2008, New York Art World 2009, and the Art Auction International Magazine 2009. Earlier this year his work was shown in Amsterdam Whitney International Fine Art Gallery, Chelsea NY. Ron has also finished 1^st or 2^nd for three years at the Clark County Fair. His work focuses on the details of the mathematical equations taken from the Fibonacci numbering system. It’s rare to find an artist with an engineering mind; Leonardo? :) You will enjoy meeting Ron and his wife Sarah.

Two other Living Hope Members will also be featured on our Art Wall. Audrey Carson’s colorful, playful explosions of creativity will make you smile and want to see more (she will also have a glow-in-the dark exhibit in our parents lounge). Johanna Larson’s work may take you to another world. We will feature several other local artists as well. The artists are donating between 30-50% of the sale of their art toward our East Vancouver trip to India.

There will be a short, but powerful Christmas story told by pastor Bruce. And then the evening will end with the opportunity to take home an ornament to remember our first Christmas show at our new campus home.

If you have questions or are interested in volunteering please email Pastor Bruce at bruce.lhceast@gmail.com

Just for Fun check out Bruce's latest Winter adventure :)

Reinforcing our True Value (What Counts Most?) Wed Night, 7 p.m. ReFresh Questions & Bible Stories

2009-11-02T10:11:00.000-08:00

[Keep checking back for multiple updates to Pastor Bruce's personal blog - link . Read Bruce's random thoughts regarding last week's roller coaster ride . . . miracles, chills, and dangerous thoughts . Not for the faint-at-heart]

What actions help to best reinforce your “forever-connection” to Jesus (I’m secure in him!)?

Here’s the real deal: When I feel discouraged, down, and misunderstood, I naturally move towards isolation. Isolation is the key to all things destructive and “death-like.” Satan sells us lie-based thoughts that imply we’re all alone.

We not only feel abandoned, not important to others, we sometimes even believe we’re far from God.

Finding physical ways to reinforce the truth that God will never leave you is so vital to strong, healthy relationships. The more we match our beliefs with our physical actions, the stronger our thoughts, beliefs, and, most important, our trust grows! The stories and verses below will make a difference in your life. See you Wednesday night (6:55 p.m.) for a small-group Refresh.

Luke 21:1-4 While Jesus was in the Temple, he watched the rich people dropping their gifts in the collection box. 2 Then a poor widow came by and dropped in two small coins. 3 “I tell you the truth,” Jesus said, “this poor widow has given more than all the rest of them. 4 For they have given a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.”

I Timothy 6:6-21 (We will do a “story-based-parsing exercise” – I’m guessing 96% of us have never used this “experience-based” study tool before. It’s an amazing way to hear God speak through the Bible. Check back on Tuesday night if you want to prep ahead of time :)

Note verses 18-19 in the Message Bible – “Tell them to go after God, who piles on all the riches we could ever manage—to do good, to be rich in helping others, to be extravagantly generous. If they do that, they'll build a treasury that will last, gaining life that is truly life.”

Luke 11:34-36 “Your eye is a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is good, your whole body is filled with light. But when it is bad, your body is filled with darkness. 35 Make sure that the light you think you have is not actually darkness. 36 If you are filled with light, with no dark corners, then your whole life will be radiant, as though a floodlight were filling you with light.”

How do we determine value of things? of people? Your use of time? Philosophical values? If you had but one belief that who trump all other beliefs, what would it be? Can you write or state this belief in one sentence?

Measuring Value (From the Weekend Teaching):

Source: The creator, designer, manufacture

Durability: Non-perishable shelf life, quality

Quantity: Rarity, demand, uniqueness

Potential: growth potential, long-term profit

Market Value: What one is willing to pay

Pastor Bruce has uses the acronym MONEY to describe societies most ancient and popular ways of measuring value (There is an amazing story in I Samuel 16 – note verse 7): Come early and get this worksheet; it could help you see where Satan most effectively attacks you regarding your value.)

Pastor Ben's Dream for Living Hope Church

2009-10-25T07:06:00.000-07:00

Matthew 5:12-14 “You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless.

14 “You are the light of the world—like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. 15 No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father.

Here are the questions for our Wednesday night Refresh (7 p.m. at our campus):

Who is God asking you to carry right now?

Read Acts 1:8 The word “go” is not found in this promise. The Holy Spirit is going to make us “witnesses.” Pastor Ben said God told us we were to do ONE thing and let nothing (even warm fireplaces) distract us: what is God calling you to “be?”

Is there anything scary about God saying “YOU are the light of the world?”

What is your warm “fireplace” that God is calling you to leave behind?

Read 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 (also Psalm 51:15-17) Who are those we “smell bad to?” Other Christians will be jealous of us; but those who hate light and love will also think we stink. How often are you “brought down” by others opinions?

Read the story of Mary and her offering of fragrance in John 12: Do you know a “broken, looking-for-light Mary" type of person? What would you give up to make it easier for her to find Jesus and receive healing?

The Dream Pastor Ben shared with Living Hope:

(Bruce Avery's notes :)

In his dream, Ben saw his daughter at a play set outside. She had tangled up the swings, they were a mess. Ben left his father at the warm fireplace and went out to get his daughter. He picked his four year old up in his arms and then began to carry her towards a destination God was calling him towards. A storm came up and he had to shield her from all the debris.

God shared Matthew 5:14 with Pastor Ben and told him to share this passage and the meaning of the dream with Living Hope Church. God is saying, “You are doing all of this Living Hope; don’t stop or be distracted or discouraged. Don’t let other’s jealousy or their enjoyment of their present rewards take you off course. Keep simply bringing people to Jesus.”

God wants us to know:

1. We are responsible to carry those in darkness to Jesus. That’s it!

2. This isn't always fun ; we are doing this –keep on keeping on.

3. Others will be enjoying life & it's rewards in their church; our reward, Living Hope, will come in the future!

4. The enemy will use circumstanced to attempt to prevent us from carrying these baby's to Jesus. Don’t freak out; keep carrying them to Jesus!

5. They (the babies) will hang onto us; they can’t see anyone else –they will depend on us. They have been blind, broken, and the only light they see is you!

6. Don't focus on their past issues - just keep taking them to Jesus. If we can just get people to Jesus He will fix them up!

7. These people will have left a mess from their stumbling in darkness: will you leave the mess and simply carry them in the storm. Again, God says we are doing this; keep pressing on!

8. Other churches will be jealous (they’re not evil, just human). Don’t worry about it.

9. You ARE a great light to the world (even Australia)! Many churches will leave their fireplace comforts and go out to carry blind children to Jesus! Don’t be discouraged!

Art, Music, and Amazing Food - This Friday, Oct. 23

2009-10-22T22:28:00.000-07:00

It's been a very long day (according to my watch and brain) . . . Mentoring some of my friends in New Zealand, realizing I've got still go prep work to do for my talk I'll give to people in India tomorrow morning . . . and then thinking of our Art Event at our East Vancouver Campus tomorrow night.

Scott and I hung out again today and I was again reminded of how much we all touch each others lives . . . Scott has an incredible team of people around him and his passion and reason for living are so strongly expressed in his art.

My friend Jen is one amazing chef and artist and knowing she's planned a culinary delight for tomorrow is so cool. Will you be there (I hope so). It's 7 p.m. at our campus. No cost, no pressure, just a chance to unwind, recharge, and be reminded of how we all are built to invest in others . . . got to run (lots of hurting people that God let me reach out to today . . . tomorrow will be so refreshing) . . . see you at 7 p.m.

Wed Night Refresh - Questions to carry with U

2009-10-20T10:04:00.000-07:00

Hope you can make it early (6:58 p.m.) this Wed for one of the shortest slide show's you've ever seen (Our E Vancouver STP Trip).

Questions for this Wed: Pastor John said 90% is 10% short of the "Full devotion" God is calling us to: 1. What past "religious-legal-beagle" scars keep you from risking "everything" for a passionate friendship with Jesus? 2. How does "being hard on yourself" keep you from "full devotion?" (No one judges us more critically than ourselves!). 3. Can you think of a sport, hobby, or project that you were fully devoted to? (We will share our stories . . . perhaps you know someone who was "fully devoted" in some way.).

Read Hebrews 10:1-4, 19-25 (Take special note of verse 24)

Read I Corinthians 4:2-4

Refresh - Tonight @ 7 p.m. Oct. 14

2009-10-14T11:02:00.000-07:00

Come at least 5 min. early if you want to sample a "culinary delight" that's high in fiber and SO easy to make (wow) . . . special thanks to Bob's Red Mill . . . You'll like it!

Tonight - Courage in failure; promises and steps to carry is into God's dangerous adventure!

Read I Samuel 13-14:6 Do you see some "should" and "should not's" in this story of courage in the middle of serious danger?

Risk (in God's divine plan) means =

What do you think made Abraham Lincoln a great man?

What does God really want from us? Psalm 51:16-17

What would you risk becoming a rebel for? How much would you risk?

We will look at several of the wisest verses in all of scripture (Found in Proverbs); they can become our blueprint for our "dangerous adventure" with God!

Tonight - Wed Refresh (latest update)

2009-10-07T17:31:00.000-07:00

Oct. 7 update

“And you will know the truth and the truth will set you free!” John 8:31-32

“I AM the way, truth, and life.” John 14:6

A lie is the opposite of the truth! Satan is the FATHER of all lies. Jesus claims to be the ultimate truth!

What is truth? It's far more than correct information! Learning Bible facts won't set you free from the stress, habits, and mess-ups that daily follow you. How do the verses above change the way you view "truth?"

Jesus ran into a lot of religious people and he said this to their face: “You search the Scriptures because you think they give you eternal life. But the Scriptures point to me!” John 5:39

A powerful truth passage is Proverbs 3:1-5 Verse 3 “Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. 4 Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation. 5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding.  6 Seek his will in all you do,  and he will show you which path to take. 7 Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom.”

Jesus IS truth. To be free I need Jesus in my life. Building trust starts with a clear awareness of our own weakness. It grows when we are constantly seeking HIS PLAN.

Sin is the opposite of truth: Sin simply means "I did it my way." That is why God's friends in the Bible saw sin as something not just against someone else, rather that which would harm their relationship with God - See Genesis 39 for an amazing story and perfect illustration of this truth (also see Psalm 51:4).

Two very important chapters in the Bible about sin are Psalm 51 and Romans 6. Sin will always be far more than a "list." It's trusting myself over God - See Romans 6:23, Romans 14:23, & John 16:9.

New Questions for Wed Refresh (Oct. 7)

2009-10-04T07:22:00.000-07:00

Freedom from "My Precious!"

The masterpiece "Lord of the Rings" illustrates the power of "SIN" in our lives. This Wednesday we will be touched by the powerful, freeing words of Proverbs 3 (especially verses 3-8).

We will also look at the Iceberg principle - a tool to help us, in prayer, dive beneath the surface to the deeper issues we need to release. God's authentic "realness" is waiting to shine out of us. Check back on Tue and Wed for more questions, more Bible verses and a couple of very cool tools!

Question: What are the three biggest lies that tempt you on a daily basis?

Maybe - "Life should be fair!" "I need to be happy." "I can't be OK if others judge me."

How do you dive beneath the surface to discover the lie that is behind your frustrations, fears, and guilt?

Jesus said, "The truth will set you free." What is truth? Hint - It's NOT what Religion has been pushing for more than 1,000 years!

This Wed. Night - 7 p.m.

2009-09-26T21:19:00.000-07:00

Pastor John used the acronym RICE in his talk this weekend - it's the power of letting prayer fill our lives. This Wed night is an opportunity to go a bit deeper into the gift of prayer. Check back Tue and Wed for updates of questions and Bible verses we will share. See what a Life Group feels like, enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. See you Wed night at 7 p.m.

Check in on Tue for Bruce & Laura's salsa recipe they made for movie night last Friday.

Movie Night - Friday Sept 25@ 7 p.m.

2009-09-25T14:29:00.000-07:00

Come EARLY if you want to see Bruce's Tomato Extravaganza show (it's about 7 min. long - fun, healthy & tastes GREAT - this is a miracle!). If you're here by 6:53 p.m. you'll see it all!

7 p.m. - OUR MOVIE is "Princess Bride" There is not better place to see this classic. Angela Taylor has a trivia quiz and you might win a very cool prize!

Bring a friend, meet someone new, see a great show (our sound system and three screens make this a great way to see a movie). Come early! Great food and some fantastic fresh salsa (Bruce's fav. recipe) - FREE!

How literal Should I take God's Word regarding Prayer?

2009-09-19T09:50:00.000-07:00

This weekend at Living Hope Church is one you won't want to miss - Pastor John will be speaking about how to dress up in ALL of God's armor - I can't tell you how excited I am about this weekend - Bring your friends! This extended Living Hope at The Movies series features the Lord of the Rings Trilogy - it's fantastic! Your batteries will be charged! See you Sunday at our East Vancouver Campus!

Bruce

These notes are from Tom Taylor and Bruce Avery's Life Group (our wives are the real strength of our very cool Life Group Family:)

What are three specific areas/things you SELDOM pray about (Pastor John mentioned his "headache" in last weeks sermon)?

"Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done." Philippians 4:6

Praying about every worry - Does God mean every one of them?

Colossians 4:2 "Devote yourselves to prayer, keeping alert in it with an attitude of thanksgiving;" WHAT ARE YOU MOST "DEVOTED TO" RIGHT NOW?

Philippians 4:6 "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."

How "inclusive" should I be with this verse? “Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere.” Ephesians 6:18

Our Group spent about 8 minutes doing a short "word study" in Philippians 4:6 - the way this verse touched our lives and the sharing that followed was amazing!

4. Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! 5. Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. 6. Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.

Don’t Worry = In the Gospels this word is translated as "take no thought" – Greek for: not your primary concern; not a high value . We say, "I could care less!" Be "Careless" about much more - "CARE MORE ABOUT LESS!" In Philippians 3 Paul says, "I'm only really concerned about ONE thing - KNOWING JESUS!
Everything = Greek for: All things (especially "things" but can include humans as well). How many "Thoughts" (things) am I worrying about right now?
Supplication = Greek for: need, desire – this word comes from the middle voice of the wd. "to beg, desire, or long for " SOME OF US FEEL WE HAVE A LACK OF FAITH OR THAT WE ARE "BIG BABIES" WHEN WE HAVE SUCH STRONG LONGINGS, OR WHEN WE KEEP ASKING GOD OVER AND OVER TO MEET OUR NEEDS - GOD WANTS US TO DO THIS! IT'S HIS INVITATION FOR US TO BE REAL ABOUT OUR PASSIONATE HEARTS! The root word behind the Old English word "Supplication" is, "to bind, tie, or fasten." In the OT this was used to refer to an obligation, law, or a duty. When we are calling out to God we are asking that we be "untied" and "unbound" from Satan's temptations and "tied up forever-safe" in a friendship with God!" Our passionate cries to our Heavenly Father builds our trust that God will NEVER leave or ABANDON US!

Requests = Greek (The root word) for: "To ask, beg, crave, or desire." How much does God want you to share your deepest longings, your unspoken dreams, all of your broken heart? This is a pretty passionate promise - God's Plan for us!

"Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere." Ephesians 6:18

Did you miss Last night's family night? - here's a link to my personal blog & to a Youtube of my son Gordon singing and dancing (very funny stuff)!

This Sunday's BBQ (Plus: HOW TO LISTEN & CARE MORE)

2009-09-04T13:08:00.000-07:00

Our life group had a great time discussing the massive topic of What Does Great Communication Look Like? (Check out my personal blog)

This Sunday (Labor Day weekend):

One of the most inspiring stories you've heard in a very long time (9 & 11 a.m.)

AND - One of the best BBQ's this Summer (Free burgers and dogs - you bring a side dish)! Don't be afraid of the rain - we've got tables indoors!

PLUS - Pastor Bruce will be grilling the ULTIMATE burger (no joke - you will have to contribute $$ for this - It goes for a great cause) . . . bring your "Bills!"

Bring a friend too and learn about all the cool things happening this fall!

White Salmon Rafting (Photo's from our trip)

2009-08-22T08:25:00.001-07:00

So, here are a few pictures from our trip. It was so much fun! More to come!

White Water Pics still to come - check back later

2009-08-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

Sorry about not posting pic yet . . . Laura got a call yesterday that her mom is dying . . . left early this a.m. to be with her. Send up some prayers for her and the family. Hope to get pic. loaded today from our White Salmon Rafting trip :)

Not us in the pic (but a great preview of Husum Falls - Class 5 rapid)

BBQ this Sunday & White Water Rafting Trip on the 15th

2009-08-06T13:27:00.000-07:00

Sunday, August 9 So we are doing another BBQ this Sunday following our 11 a.m. service (You bring your favorite salad and/or chips or desert - we'll bring the rest). It's fun. If it's hot you can eat in our air-conditioned auditorium or outside in the sun. It's a great way to start/build friendships that will make a real difference in your life!

Oh wow, Bruce has finally (Can you believe it?) posted his favorite BBQ rub for burgers (Did you try one?) AND . . . some added ideas for building the juiciest, best burgers ever - check it out!

Saturday, August 15 Rafting Trip The deadline for signing up is this Sunday (Aug. 9). You can sign up in person or email us - Brucea@livinghopechurch.com. (This will be one grand time - You've got to make it happen :)!

Details: Cost, $65 (includes BBQ following) If you want to show up at our BBQ location & just do the BBQ part it's $10 (You still have to register ahead of time).

Car-pooling: 1st - Let us know if your willing to drive (how many additional empty seats) or if you need a ride (# of seats) ahead of time! 2nd - Show up at the East Vancouver Campus no later than 6:45 a.m. (hair and make-up don't need to be finished:)

Location: Rafting address 1248 Highway 141, White Salmon, WA 98672 (it's best to go to Hood River on I-84 then cross over to Hwy 14 and go south; turn North on 141A) The best directions on on the web site, www.zooraft.com. The BBQ will be at approximately 12:30 or 1 p.m. - Continue on past Zoller's (maybe 10 miles) to Camp Jonah on Trout Lake (www.campjonah.com).

Return: After any needed memorials or extra "horsing around" most of us should arrive back in Vancouver around 4 or 4:30 p.m.

WED night Refresh is on Summer Vacation

2009-07-24T06:49:00.000-07:00

We will only have a couple (to be announced) Wed night Refresh nights until September. They will be unique, fun, and you will have advance notice - See you on the weekend!

Refresh Refreshes - Tonight NOT meeting at E Vancouver

2009-07-22T13:09:00.000-07:00

Pastor Bruce will be speaking to the Youth at the Main campus tonight (LSM). Come join him for stories on Fear, layers (like onions), and some creative, powerful, worship on your Youth night. It's summer so try something new.

We will not have a regular "Refresh" until September - please watch for unique, stand alone events! Are you signed up to go Whitewater Rafting (and/or BBQ) with us? Get ready!

Don't miss our new art exhibit & Concert by Periffery

2009-07-14T14:23:00.001-07:00

This Friday night (July 17 at our E. Van. Campus - 7 p.m. Bring friends (email, Facebook, twitter, text, call, ring a doorbell . . . so much fun!).

Music by Shawn and Natasha Lewis of Perifery and Hyperstatic Union
Shawn Lewis, lead singer for Hyperstatic Union and his new band, Perifery. Shawn is also a Dove award winner.
Shawn's wife Natasha Lewis, sings with Periffery, as well as other groups.

Check out the band/s- Hyperstatic link Periffery link

On our Art Wall

Our new Art exhibit will be a local artist, Philemon Reid (link). His art is currently being shown at the Aurora gallery in downtown Vancouver. Phil grew up with Cubism and fell in love with Picasso. From this he spent the last 50+ years developing his own style. He doesn't paint music, his art is music. All of his themes are jazz or blues.

Great Coffee by Bean's To Brew?
Beans To Brew is Emilee and Kasey's coffee shop. For the last two months they have had a concession trailer which allows them to take all their great beverages mobile!

There is no cover charge for this event - Periffery will be selling albums and coffee drinks are being offered at a reduced price.

For more information email Brucea@livinghopechurch.com

Graduates, Woman golfers, Father's day

2009-06-07T06:11:00.000-07:00

Let's start with Golf. So Laura can't hit her driver (she started lessons this past winter) & for her Birthday she got a Lady's Burner. Friday afternoon she did her Birthday by golfing with three guys she says she's nuts about (I get to be one of those guys!). Her first two drives she hit so far she was almost levitating (Gordon can do this trick . . . an amazing illusion) and all day she did so fantastic! You go East Van. LH Girl!

Graduates: We want to honor you at our East Van campus with a special gift (Proud parents, friends, and local sheriffs, please let us know who we can honor this next week at church). We want to invite you to either our 9 or 11 a.m. service. We do need an RSVP if possible. That's this next Sun., June 14.

Father's day is coming up soon - June 21, and we have a "Special" gift for all fathers attending our East Van campus (not a new Driver - sorry). Bring your dad; it will be fun (cool too)!

Last Fri Movie - come join us

2009-05-28T11:45:00.000-07:00

Fri. May 29 @ 7 p.m.

Movie: October Sky (fantastic acting/super plot/true story/will stick in your head/inspiring)

Free popcorn & candy

Donate at least $2.50 and you get a BBQ meal (wow)

Great setting, three big screens, good sound system . . . fun time with others . . . bring a friend . . . or even better; Come out tonight, 5:30 p.m., and help us do door hangers that invite our neighbors (Thurs May 28).

Tonight - Wed Refresh (latest update)

2009-05-13T14:28:00.000-07:00

Stumptown tasters who come early; sample some of the best coffee out there. Also, if you arrive by 7 p.m. you can learn of some fun web sites that can help you understand your personality and passions in life (early birds get the web)!

Read about Michelle's Ultimate Cup Cake story (incredible) & other cool happenings tonight at our East Vancouver Campus.

Very Serious Coffee & Cupcakes this WED!

2009-05-12T11:44:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, May 13 @ 7 p.m. - REFRESH! Come to our East Van Campus and have a recharge that is both fun and inspiring!

This Wed. the Amazing, life-saving "Cup cake" story. Don't miss as Michelle tells how the cup cakes she didn't want to make literally saved a person who was dying. All six of us who heard Michelle tell this "rest of the story" experience a

greed it's one of the best stories told all year. Michelle is a mother of two and attends our East Campus. Come and be wowed by her story; meet new people, laugh and try out some samples of Stumptown coffee (very serious coffee) - cup cakes too! Our focus is on listening to God's plan for our life (work, service, people we are called to invest in). This is a great night to refresh - see you soon (bring a friend).

Wednesday, May 20 a new series begins: Love, Acceptance, and Forgiveness. Pastor's Tom and Bruce will lead us in an in depth Bible study through their favorite topic. Learn how to study God's Word. Experience freedom for guilt, shame and fear of abandonment. Hear some of the most inspiring stories from others who live in our community. This series will radically touch your life with hope and change! Bring a Bible and a pen or pencil. Start planning now!

Extra: Just for fun, see the national news flash about Pastor Bruce's wife!

Super WOW experience - You should have . . .

2009-04-30T11:36:00.000-07:00

Last night, April 29, was one very fun, fuel-filling experience! Laura and I had a great time! Weren't there? What did you miss?

Tom & Angela Taylor sharing a 4.5 min. story of how they recovered from a near death experience (being part of "Religion" far too long)! They also shared how they met when Angie was only 12 years old (very funny stuff).
17 year old worship leader Adam O. sharing his brief life history of being a pyromaniac; and how music has run in his blood from early childhood! LOL! WHAT A COOL KID!
Kasey Butler shared how his business and personal life have been supercharged by his involvement in Living Hope East (it was very cool - Thurs. business lunch at E Van going strong).
Not to be left out, Michael and Rhonda gave one of the most powerful, funny, and inspiring 4 min "real life stories" I've heard in some time. They got a "Blazers kind of ovation."

Twenty seven of us were gathered for our first ever Experiencing Living Hope mid-week experience. We shared some of the dreams of our new East Vancouver campus and refreshed on why Living Hope only focuses on "four chairs." Beside the handouts, great food, and table sharing, we finally chased off the last couple at 10:15 p.m. (We actually had our closing prayer at 8:39 - it's so cool seeing people stick around and not want to go home).

Experiencing Living Hope is a very wonderful way to refocus, refresh, and relax with great friends (and find new ones too). We'll do it again in about 6 months; count on it.

Way too much fun!

Friday Night at the Movies - Last Fri of the month

2009-04-23T18:37:00.000-07:00

Friday, April 24, 6:30 p.m. - East Vancouver Living Hope Movie Night

For our first movie we have chosen a powerful film that many people haven't seen. It's gotten great reviews from teens and parents. "This movie" says Bruce Avery "is so powerful you will likely buy it for your collection." The Brownlee family have had lots of laughs; just ask them and tell you how hard it was to get Bruce to actually watch this film . . . but once he did Bruce has shown it to a lot of friends.

The Avery boys, Gordon (24) and Marcus (21) agree that this is a powerful film that leaves its mark. Come join us for fun and relaxation at our new campus. Don't let the "Hallmark like" cover fool you, this movie has something for everyone. Bring a friend, we'll provide the popcorn.

View Larger Map

Never bored again!

2009-04-17T17:27:00.000-07:00

We are responding to the amazing turnout at Living Hope this last weekend, over 10,000 people visiting all our campuses! We had over 400 at our East Vancouver campus. We are responding by deciding to hold two services from this weekend (April 19) onward!

Here's how you can get involved:

This Saturday: Clean, help finish projects (a whole bunch of fun left) from 2 p.m. until we all go home (painting, spraying fire retardant, cleaning, sorting storage items, more painting, carpentry work (experienced guys & gals needed), vacuuming (no ironing) and much more . . . see you soon!

This Sunday: We are in need of extra hands at both services: In Kid's World we could use help checking kids in and in our toddler's room. In the auditorium we need ushers for offerings at the 11 a.m. service and people to help cleaning up between the 9 & 11. We are in need of help after the 11 a.m. service with stacking some chairs and clean-up. There are other areas you can serve in so please show up with your best smile!

Only God! It will be one amazing weekend.

Update on our new digs, pics, and April 2nd Hot night inside scoop

2009-03-28T21:57:00.000-07:00

The miracles of contractors donating services and material continues - we are so blessed. We are still short by $6,000 in our budget. We've come up with over $4,000 this week. We found out the large screen we were told we had is not available - God will find a way . . .

The next electrical inspection should take place on Monday and then it's the last of the drywall and texturing and paint. We need to find a commercial spray paint person for the ceiling. We are planning a big cleaning/painting/set-up party for next Saturday, April 4.

WE WILL be having services on April 5 in our new facilities. The service will start at 11 a.m.

Easter we will have two services for the day, 9 & 11. We need so many volunteers to help - it will be fun! AND . . . and, so many people's lives will be filled with hope and the amazing gift of God's love!

What's happening April 2nd? It's the CD release show of the band GORDON AVENUE - the lead singer/songwriter is our son Gordon. Tom and Angie's son, Je

remy is the lead guitar player. We would love to have you join us for the fun. Check out my personal blog and the band's web site. Bring a friend and play with us!

www.Gordonavenue.com

www.bruceandportland.blogspot.com

Every moment we are given great opportunities

2009-02-28T15:52:00.001-08:00

I was very stupid for waiting so many years to learn to dance with my best friend, Laura. She’s the love of my life and I’ve know for many years that dancing with her would bring great joy (please forward this blog to my dear friend Pastor John Bishop).

I was reading the Love Chapter guy – Paul today and I heard God speaking to me through it. The context is about how we live out our lives in an evil world. The verses I read so spoke to me about my years of neglecting to speak a “love language” that would bless my wife’s life. The reasons for NOT blessing Laura in this way were silly (actually stupid) and revealed a slice of selfish “stuck-very-deep-in-the-mud” thinking. I kept telling myself that God didn’t gift me with the ability to dance therefore I was excused from trying. What a lie (often to allow us to keep doing what is comfortable instead of what’s right).

Here’s the passage I read: Ephesians 5:16-18. Paul’s saying, “Bruce take EVERY opportunity you get, especially in these selfish times, act out with purposefulness – live not in excesses of “what feels good” rather live by being “filled-to-the-top” with God’s Spirit. The word “filled” actually means complete.

Why are you holding back?
What would add joy to someone you love?
Read the whole story of Bruce’s victory over stupidity (my personal blog)

There is no such thing as “ordinary”

2009-02-20T10:42:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was one of my top 10 favorite devotions from O.C. (Check it out right now). My dear friend from the other-side-of-the-pond, Oswald Chambers, wrote about despair wraping it’s hideous claws around us whenever we realize how much we’ve blown an opportunity; a moment that can never be recaptured, never reconstructed – something lost forever! Despair comes in many colors but it’s end result is loss of hope! And without hope there is no passion, true purposeful drive. Relationships wither and hollow, fake, emptiness encases us in prisons of fear. In the words of an 8th grade, “despair is a bad thing.”

Oswald reminds us of the night Jesus’ three closest friends felt despair yank them back into a depressed, numb, sleep. All the while Jesus had to wrestle with God in the darkest night of his life. O.C.’s key thought is that the NEXT RIGHT STEP is, to do whatever “Ordinary thing” is in front of you. Stop and choose to NOT to visualize anything as ordinary. Every moment is a present miracle –God’s presence in you and all around you! Really! How much do you believe this? Right now?

These last two mornings I’ve struggled to craw out of bed and shift into “R” (=racing) . . . I’ve been sparing with what some call the “common cold.” AND It’s against my religion to get sick (besides I’m a big baby when I’m down). I’ve been praying for this “God view” - to accept the ordinary as extraordinary. God so explodes your life when you choose to do this.

For the depressed, suicidal, prophet Elijah, the next right thing to do (ordinarily extraordinaire) was to “eat and drink his Crystal Light; then go back to sleep.” What “ordinary moment” did you let slip on by today? Are you overwhelmed with regrets (I’ve sat with people who are worn out over concerns for their kid’s drug addiction; people in the hospital in serious condition, and young lovers finding their love gone sideways . . . they all were trying to see God present in their present tense troubles – they all are struggling with regrets.). What will you do with what’s left of right now?

I stopped and said hi today to a silver haired, brilliant blue-eyed 70 year old guy in the gym (He blessed my life with a little book and I plan to return the favor over coffee; hopefully some sharing as to how God can touch his life . . . I don’t think He knows my friend yet, but I promise the coffee won’t be ordinary!).

What’s the most ordinary thing in your life right now? You might be surprised if you pause and look again (really choose to see it as miraculous).

Nothing is ordinary unless you believe the mistruth that it is!

(More on my seven days of romance with my sweetheart – visit my personal blog)

Love is in the air

2009-02-14T07:15:00.001-08:00

I love great music, art, and the mystery of God’s romance. This week I’ve met with a musician whose trying to build a team for the first time when it comes to his relationships. He’s single, being brave and running back to God! I’m one of the most God-lucky men to be able to hang with such cool young people.

I saw God surprise me regarding our new campus! We had one of the largest homebuilders in the county come on board to help us with our new remodel. We had Duane, one of our LH executive pastors, join our construction team, and thousands of dollars in hardware donated. God is good. Friday, my construction friend Richard and I taped out the stage area and it’s getting real exciting.

Prayer focus: We would need to raise nearly $5,000 for just a basic stage lighting system. The final decorating cost are way beyond that. Pray that we hear God’s voice as He guides each of us (giving $5, giving our skills, passionately serving, flying Bruce and the Team to Aruba for a 4 day break . . . – it’s a joke, really!)

Pray that the permitting process goes through smoothly (this will be huge this week and will be the determining factor in us getting into our new facility before Easter)!

Needs: Donation of a drum kit for Kid’s World. A small (not too small) refrigerator, Oven, Microwave, bar sink and a Plummer and cabinet maker to go along (We want to build a mini-kitchen in our Kid’s World.

Oh, I almost forgot: V. Day tips (it’s not to late – click here now to go to my personal blog site). I’ve got one of the most simple, easy, pain-free, no calorie tips known to Human Kind!

Happy Valentines! If you think V. day is stupid (“I don’t need a commercialized Hallmark $$$ day to show my love.”), you need to talk to me – I can help you will your blindness – for sure!

Only Three days Left (Romance tips # 2)

2009-02-11T23:14:00.001-08:00

If you really want to follow my week of romancing my sweetheart take a jog to my personal web site (Tips for gals want to figure out how to romance their “man.”)

Today’s and Yesterdays devotional by my old British chap, and friend-bud, is fantastic. I think of all the things lost, forgotten, and pushed down – O.C. has again shown what a revolutionary rebel he was for Jesus in these devotions (written about 180+ years ago).

“Is your imagination stayed on God or is it starved? The starvation of the imagination is one of the most fruitful sources of exhaustion and sapping in a worker's life. If you have never used your imagination to put yourself before God, begin to do it now.”

Oswald believed that an “imagination is the greatest gift God has given us and it ought to be devoted entirely to Him.”

Romance has a lot to do with the imagination. Do you imagine bringing a deep joy to someone’s life today? Today I got to pour into a young pastor’s life and I imagined seeing his spirits rise all week long. Tomorrow Laura and I get to help a struggling young man who so needs a bit of financial help. The best part is we spent time sharing our “imagined” blessing and how it will cheer him on to serve with such passion (What surprise when one of our sons came home tonight – guess who he ran into? Yep, our friend we get to bless. And this friend told our son he plans to start serving while in the middle of these very hard times!

Dream, imagine, how God will use you to bring a smile to someone else’s life tomorrow?

Tip for what I did for Laura today posted on my personal blog- Check it out.

Romance (ONLY 4 days LEFT!) tips

2009-02-10T11:11:00.001-08:00

The book, Song of Solomon is one of the most sensual/sexual pieces of literature every written. It never mentions God’s name, prayer, or “religious words.” It so embarrassed theologians and religious teachers that for more than 1,000 years it was turned into a spiritual metaphor and translated so that the idioms and metaphors were not hidden. Why? I think we’ve boxed God outside of the gift of romance and intimacy.

This week (and perhaps beyond) I hope to blog about the Romance of a deep intimate friendship.

I’m going to share a web site that has a lot of tips (I wouldn’t buy the books or buy a whole lot of the advice . . . that’s just me . . . I’m careful about what I buy into when it comes to relationship experts . . . and NO I DON’T have all the answers . . . I’ll explain another time). The web site for Valentine ideas: THE ROMANTIC.

Feb 10 - BRUCE’S ROMANTIC (pre)V. DAY TREAT (I’m prepping for that amazing girlfriend and wife, my best friend Laura): I jumped out of bed at 5 a.m. and as soon as Laura was in the shower I took her towel and Head wrap and fast tracked it to the dryer. When she stepped out there was a note (w a heart) and very warm towels (she loved it). The bed was made and I’d already fed the cat . . . Tomorrow I kick into TURBO. Come back tomorrow for an update!

Who will you romance today? Will you allow God to romance you today? Is there stranger who needs a kindness act (a kind of romantic touch that says “Everyone is someone special!”).

Several years ago my sweetheart gave me a romantic verse that is an amazing reminder of the ultimate gift! Read it now?

The very best Present is the celebration of God’s Presence (no where but NOW HERE with YOU!) here with you and in you, now!

For even more details throughout the week check out my personal blog site.

Boy Meets Girl – Romanced by God

2009-02-08T06:59:00.001-08:00

More than one single person spoke to me this week about something they're trying NOT to do in there relationships. Avoidance therapy is something that doesn't work very well - “I’m not going to be desperate to be married,” or "I'm going to stop needing that person so much!"

It seems like the more we focus on NOT thinking about something; the more we try to avoid doing something the more it becomes our predominant focus. This is a natural function of the human brain!

Paul talks about living free of sin in Romans 7. The more I try to not do something the more I do it (v.15).
He goes on – My natural self takes God’s perfect plan (law) and it arouses even more temptation in me (v.5)
Then he says, God’s law, in my sinful natural state, stirs up all kinds of coveting – wanting things I don’t have (v.8)

Trying NOT to be so desperate; NOT trying to obsess about my loneliness - it only makes it worse! God’s got a better way.

God reminds us, through the words of Billy Preston, “Nothin’ from Nothin’ leaves nothin’ You’ve gotta have somethin’ if want to be with me!

God is the only one who can romance you and I enough!

All this week I plan to blog about God’s romance (maybe even some ideas on how to give romance as a wonderful "value-based gift" to someone else). Visit my blog this week as I unpack some of the ideas we shared at Fisher’s this weekend. Let's keep building deep friendship intimacy “God’s way.”

‘”I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love.” John 15:9

East Vancouver Living Hope Church

Amazing Pizza op & Great Show - the Adventures of Bruce

Mark it down: Oct 10 is our BIG DAY

DO U BELONG? NeXt Step?

To Love More!

India update - Special Haiti Report this Sunday night

White Salmon Rafting

Dr. Kumar (from India) is at our Campus this weekend (and tomorrow night - Women . . . check this out . . .)

Summer Spiritual Muscle - a simple plan

Try on "serving" at East Vancouver this Summer

Prayers that harm you (Final blog in series on being faithful)

How Jimmy Carter and I were unfaithful (Infidelity part III)

Infidelity & worry - How Jimmy Carter are alike (Part II)

What triggers infidelity (unfaithfulness)?

Hawaii and May 23 - Reflections on things that make a BIG difference

The power of eye contact (and - how we first play)

What happened to Tuesday? The FIRST 3 steps of bonding!

Building Friendships with a Team of friends

This Friday, 7 p.m. - Acoustic Concert by Gordon Avery

How well do you forgive yourself?

Easter at East Vancouver Living Hope - 9 a.m. & 11 a.m.

4-D Forgiveness

What a Week!

Forgiveness Update

Real Forgiveness leads towards . . .

Sunday, March 21 Pastor Bruce speaks at E. Vancouver

Read The Giving Tree! Also, come on a date with Bruce & Laura

East Vancouver Update

"True" vs "Truth" - Living Free

Snow shoeing this Saturday! March 6

How to pray for one of God's kids who lives in India

This week UPDATE - Sun Feb. 21 -27

This Week - Sun Feb. 21 -27

Feb. 14 - "From India with Love" special story

Contrast makes better pictures - Post India

Jan 24 - India

India - January 22-23

Thursday - Jan. 21st

5th Day in India (Wow!)

We're in Dubai - Almost to India

Maybe our last Video report before flying out to India

Last Team Meeting - so many details

Getting Ready

It's still coming - New Flip Camcorder test

Update on India - Dec. 30

ONLY a few hrs left - READ & PASS ON TO FRIENDS

Living Hope Live Nativity Story

This Sunday - One of my favorite stories

Come help us share cloths with the homeless

Our Christmas Show was Amazing - So will be Dec. 13

Our 1st Living Hope Christmas Show at our East Campus

Reinforcing our True Value (What Counts Most?) Wed Night, 7 p.m. ReFresh Questions & Bible Stories

Pastor Ben's Dream for Living Hope Church

Art, Music, and Amazing Food - This Friday, Oct. 23

Wed Night Refresh - Questions to carry with U

Refresh - Tonight @ 7 p.m. Oct. 14

Tonight - Wed Refresh (latest update)

New Questions for Wed Refresh (Oct. 7)

More questions for Wed Night Refresh, plus +++

This Wed. Night - 7 p.m.

Movie Night - Friday Sept 25@ 7 p.m.

How literal Should I take God's Word regarding Prayer?

This Sunday's BBQ (Plus: HOW TO LISTEN & CARE MORE)

White Salmon Rafting (Photo's from our trip)

White Water Pics still to come - check back later

BBQ this Sunday & White Water Rafting Trip on the 15th

WED night Refresh is on Summer Vacation

Refresh Refreshes - Tonight NOT meeting at E Vancouver

Don't miss our new art exhibit & Concert by Periffery

Graduates, Woman golfers, Father's day

Last Fri Movie - come join us

Tonight - Wed Refresh (latest update)

Very Serious Coffee & Cupcakes this WED!

Super WOW experience - You should have . . .

Friday Night at the Movies - Last Fri of the month

Never bored again!

Update on our new digs, pics, and April 2nd Hot night inside scoop

Every moment we are given great opportunities

There is no such thing as “ordinary”

Love is in the air